• Wildwood Falls is a dramatic scenic destination on the Row River
• A beautiful but dangerous swimming hole and cliff jumping spot
A dramatic scenic destination, Wildwood Falls, also known as River Row Falls on Row River, is located in the western foothills of the Cascade Mountains between the Umpqua and Willamette National Forests, 38 miles southeast of Eugene. The 3.4-acre site includes two Lane County Parks - Wildwood Falls and LaSells Stewart and features a waterfall that forms four segments and pours off wide cliff walls into a magical dark-green pool.
The LaSells Stewart Park at Row River Road provides easier access to the beach and swimming area. Another access point is located on the opposite side of the river at Forest Road 17 and it requires some effort to get there. You either need to cross the stream above the waterfalls and climb down on the opposite side or use rope access to go down because the slope is extremely steep. The riverbank consists of small boulders and river rocks.
The 15-foot waterfall cascades from the 40-foot high and 140-foot wide basalt ridge through channels into the deep large pool that is popular among swimmers, cliff jumpers, rafters, and scuba divers. However, cliff jumping and swimming here are associated with risks and even death. Do not swim when the water levels are high. It is dangerous to swim directly below the falls because of the strong and violent undercurrent. There is a small underwater cavern behind the waterfalls where you could be trapped and sucked.
Wildwood Falls is a great place for hiking. The 0.1 miles loop trail is good for any skill level.
Wildwood Falls | General Description
Open: Year-round from dawn to dusk
Managed by: Lane County
Location: LaSells D Stewart County Park
Services: Portable restroom from June through September, picnic area with grills
Activities: Swimming, diving, hiking, climbing
Distance from the parking: Short
Road access: Any passenger vehicle
Day-use fees: Yes (Buy a pass online)
Popularity: Low to moderate
Accommodations: No camping in the park area
Affordable vacation rentals for short and long term stay at Cottage Grove
Elevation: 1,000 ft (305 m)
Wildwood Falls is located:
- 17 miles southeast of Cottage Grove
- 38 miles southeast of Eugene
- 67 miles northeast of Roseburg.
Swimming hole rating: 3 out of 5
Body of Water: River
Water quality: Transparent
Current: Light to moderate, waterfalls undercurrent
Depth: Deep
Beach: River rocks and boulders
Water T° (summer): Cool
Adventures Nearby
Directions to Wildwood Falls Park
From I-5,
- Take exit 174 toward Cottage Grove & Dorena Lake
- Drive 4.1 miles east on Row River Road
- Bear right on Government Road and Shoreview Drive and continue 6.6 miles
- Merge onto Row River Road and follow 4.6 miles to Lower Brice Creek Road
- Continue 0.8 miles to Wildwood Falls Park on the right.
Directions to LaSells Stewart Park
From I-5,
- Take exit 174 toward Cottage Grove & Dorena Lake
- Drive 4.1 miles east on Row River Road
- Bear right on Government Road and Shoreview Drive and continue 6.6 miles
- Merge onto Row River Road and follow 5.1 miles
- Turn left after mileposts 17 and continue 0.2 miles to the parking area.
Phone: (541) 682-2000