• Wagon Wheel Park is a great summer destination at the Molalla River
• Features a large swimming area with deeps and shallows
Wagon Wheel Park is a beautiful county park nestled on the bank of the Molalla River just off Highway 213 in the small community of Mulino, 16 miles away from Woodburn. The large 250-foot-long and 150-foot-wide swimming hole upstream of the bridge is a favorite summer destination because of its proximity to Salem and Portland.
The river is relatively shallow at the banks and deep in the stream's middle. The deeper area at the large rock ledge on the opposite side is used as a platform for jumping. The water becomes shallow on the edges of the swimming channel. The current is relatively slow during the summer months, but there is an undercurrent to be aware of. The bottom consists of sand with many river rocks and boulders.
This is a popular swimming area. So, during the summer heat, the parking area can be overcrowded.
Camping, open fires, shooting, and alcohol are prohibited.
Cautions. The strong undercurrent and steep river bank are dangerous. Six people have drowned here. Please, use caution and make safe decisions.
Wagon Wheel Park | Facts
Open: Seasonally from 6 am to 6 pm
Managed by: Clackamas County
Amenities: Vault toilet
Activities: Swimming, fishing, hiking
Distance from the parking: Short
Road access: Any passenger vehicle
Day-use fees: None
Affordable vacation rentals for short and long term stay at Salem
Elevation: 400 ft (122 m)
Wagon Wheel Park is located:
4 miles north of Molalla
34 miles northeast of Salem
30 miles southeast of Portland.
Adventures Nearby
Directions to Wagon Wheel Park
From I-5,
- Take exit-271 and then turn left onto OR-214 toward Woodburn
- Head 14 miles east via OR-214, then OR-211 to OR-213
- Turn left onto OR-213 and continue 3.6 miles north to the destination on the right.
The hike from the parking area to the river edge is short.