• Sixes River is popular among recreational gold prospectors
• Most of the river banks are private besides a few public access
The scenic Sixes River starts its way in Rogue-River Siskiyou National Forest and flows over thirty miles west through the dense coastal forest, finally entering the Pacific Ocean 5 miles north of Port Orford at Cape Blanco. Two-thirds of the watershed is private land, including the first 16 miles of the lower part, with public access through the Cape Blanco State Park at the mouth and Edison Creek Campground and Day-Use Area.
Most of the upper river area is under mine claims and many roads have locked gates by private logging companies.
A couple of miles of the upper river, managed by the U.S. Forest Service, offer public access. Along this stretch you can enjoy the river's serenity and beautiful nature, swimming, and a variety of other outdoor activities.
The unique name of the river has different versions of its origin. Some sources claim it was named after the leader of the local First People's clan. Others state that the name comes out of the Chinook language and means "friend". Another version of the name comes from one of the Kwatami tribe's names meaning "people by the far north country".
Sixes River Gold Panning & Rockhounding
The river originates in the Klamath Mountain and, along with the Elk River, flows through Grassy Knob Wilderness and Copper Salmon Wilderness.
In the mid-1800s, rich gold placer deposits were discovered on the Sixes River, attracting numerous early settlers to try their fortune. While none of them became very rich, many managed to earn enough for a good living. The town of Summersville was established, featuring a general store, a tavern, twelve houses, and a small logging business. However, with the Great Depression and the depletion of gold deposits, the town was eventually abandoned, leaving no ruins behind today.
Despite the historical decline in gold mining, traces of gold still remain in the river, drawing visitors for recreational mining. Gold panning and rockhounding are allowed without permits on most Bureau of Land Management and U.S. Forest Service lands Just make sure you are not accidentally trespassing on private lands.
Note that mining activities are restricted from fall to mid-summer due to salmon spawning. Always check the current regulations and mining dates by contacting the Oregon Department of Fish and Wildlife.
The riverbanks and riverbed are composed of gravel and rocks in various sizes and colors, making it a haven for rock collectors. You can find white quartz, agate, petrified wood, and green, yellow, and red brecciated jasper.
The best spots for rock collecting are at the mouth of the Sixes River in the Cape Blanco State Park. Another prime location for prospecting and rockhounding, offering easy access and camping is Sixes River Recreation Site.
Sixes River Fishing
Sixes River is the best for catching fall wild Chinook and coho salmon as well as winter steelhead and resident cutthroat trout. The fishing is restricted to the lower 16 miles, with limited bank access. Be sure to check the latest deadlines and current fishing regulations before you go.
Sixes River Swimming & Other Water Activities
The Sixes River is a stunning destination for various water activities. The river's clear and relatively calm waters make it an ideal spot for a refreshing swim. The water remains cool even in the peak of summer, typically around 65°F in August.
With its gentle currents in the summer, the Sixes River is suitable for boating and kayaking.
Cape Blanco Lighthouse & State Park
Cape Blanco State Park provides access to the Sixes River at its mouth as well as to the ocean beaches south and north of Cape Blanco. The park boasts over 400 years of recorded history and scenic beauty of the coastal nature.
There are over eight miles of hiking trails, a 150-acre horse riding area, a campground, an early Irish settler's house, and Cape Blanco Lighthouse which is the oldest, windiest, and westernmost light station in Oregon.
Edison Creek Campground & Recreation Area
Edison Creek Campground and Recreation Area sit at the creek entering the Sixes River. This area has 27 campsites and 5 reservable group sites with enough space for up to 25 people each. The campground has picnic tables, fire rings, accessible toilets, and drinking water.
Swimming, fishing, picnicking, and boating are popular past times here. The campground has a boat ramp.
Elephant Rock Creek Bridge
This scenic and secluded destination at the junction of Elephant Rock Creek and the Sixes is a perfect roadside swimming hole. Public land begins at the eastern side of the bridge over the Elephant Rock Creek. Park your car and find a short trail to the river.
This truly unique site features beautiful rock formations and clear emerald-green water. If your intention is not just wading and enjoying the river, you can swim in a deep swimming hole at the huge rock in the middle of the river.
Sixes River Recreation Site
Sixes River Recreation Site is a small campground managed by the Bureau of Land Management. The site features 19 campsites, each equipped with picnic tables and fire rings, ideal for outdoor meals and campfires. Drinking water is available, and there are vault toilets.
In addition to camping and picnicking, this spot provide opportunities for swimming, fishing, and gold panning.
Warning! Be mindful of poison oak as well as wildlife like cougars, bobcats, and bears which occasionally can be encountered here.
Adventures Nearby
