• South Umpqua Falls is a scenic destination in the Umpqua National Forest
• The falls have a natural bedrock water slide, and it is popular for cliff jumping and swimming
South Umpqua Falls is a scenic destination on the east side of the Cascade Mountains. Despite this place being deeply hidden in the Umpqua National Forest, it is extremely popular for splashing with friends, slip-sliding, and cliff-jumping.
Hike 0.25 miles down to the river at the base of the waterfall. From here, you can walk upstream, literally, in the middle of the river to the top of the falls and the fish ladder.
The river flows over gently sloping, mossy bedrock, then drops 15 feet to a deep plunge pool. The main feature of this spot is a natural water slide. Cliff jumping is another popular activity here.
Things to Do at South Umpqua Falls
Swimming, Wading, and Cliff Jumping
The shallow river above the waterfall has small pools in the bedrock where you can dip on a hot summer day. There are plenty of places for swimming and wading downstream just below the waterfall. They vary from deep to shallow. A large rock-and-boulder beach below the falls serves as a sunbathing area.
There is a risk of falling on the slippery bedrock surface and rocks. Wear river footwear. Walk on the moss and clean rocks, avoiding a slippery dark coating on the rocks formed by green algae.
Cautions: Cliff jumping and slippery rocks pose risks. Variations in water levels, rocks that are not immediately visible, or even shifts in river bottoms due to strong currents can all lead to serious injury and death. Make safe decisions!
South Umpqua Falls: Camping, Lodging & Vacation Rentals
The South Umpqua Falls Campground on the left side of the road provides 19 camping sites for RV or tent camping. The campsite has fire pits, picnic tables, and vault toilets.
If you are looking for more comfortable accommodations, Canyonville has plenty of hotels and rentals to choose from.
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South Umpqua Falls | Facts
Open: Year-round
Managed by: U.S. Forest Service
Amenities: Vault toilets, garbage disposal, no drinking water
Activities: Swimming, water sliding, picnicking
Distance from the trailhead: Short
Road access: Any passenger vehicle
Day-use fees: Yes or Interagency Senior/Access/Military Pass
Elevation (waterfall): 1,700 ft (518 m)
South Umpqua Falls is located:
- 42 miles east of Canyonville
- 70 miles southeast of Roseburg
- 70 miles north of Medford.
Swimming hole rating: 5 out of 5
Body of Water: River
Water quality: Transparent
Current: Light to moderate
Depth: Deep and shallow
Beach: Bedrock, rocks
Water T° (summer): Cool (70°F in August)
Adventures Nearby
Directions to South Umpqua Falls
From I-5 in Canyonville,
- Take exit 98 and turn left onto 1st Street
- Turn right onto Main Street and then onto 3d Street
- Travel 22.6 miles east on Douglas County Highway 1/Tiller Trail Highway to South Umpqua Road
- Turn left onto South Umpqua Road
- Drive along the river 19.6 miles to the destination on the right.