Elkhorn Creek Wild and Scenic River
Overview
Elkhorn Creek Wild and Scenic River is managed by Bureau of Land Management and is located near Lyons, Oregon.
Overview:
Elkhorn Creek is a unique, pristine, low-elevation setting, with limited access, providing a landscape with few signs of human disturbance or activity. It flows through the heavily forested and rugged foothills of the west side of the Cascade Range and within the Opal Creek Scenic Recreation Area, which is known for its majestic old-growth forests. The 'wild' section flows from a point along the Willamette National Forest to 0.6 mile downstream of its confluence with Buck Creek.Know Before You Go:
- Elkhorn Creek has limited and difficult access. The segment is much valued by the kayaking community, some of whom have been known to lower themselves and their gear down a thousand foot cliff face. Once there, they enjoy a canyon of spectacular beauty and isolation.
- There are no developed recreation sites along Elkhorn Creek itself; however, Nearby BLM’s seasonally-opened Elkhorn Valley and Canyon Creek recreation sites offer camping and picnicking, respectively. This waterway abuts the Forest Service’s Opal Creek Scenic Area, and is close to the Opal Creek wilderness further up the Little North Santiam River.
- When recreating on public lands, practice Leave-No-Trace Principles.
- Don't Move Firewood: Please protect Pacific Northwest forests by preventing the spread of invasive species. Firewood can carry insects and diseases that can threaten the health of our western forests. You can make a difference by obtaining and burning your firewood near your camping destination.
Point of Interest:
Elkhorn Creek is home to Pacific giant salamanders which can grow up to 12 inches in length.Things to Do at Elkhorn Creek Wild and Scenic River
Recreation Activities
Popular activities at Elkhorn Creek Wild and Scenic River include:
Nearby Activities
- Fishing
- Hiking
- Hunting
Plan Your Visit
Getting There
From Salem, Oregon:Follow OR-22 E/Santiam Hwy SE 24 miles to N Fork Rd/Little North Fork, turn left. Continue on N Fork Rd. and turn right onto N Fork Ln. Continue for approximately 1.7 miles where the road meets Elkhorn Creek.
GPS Coordinates: 44.81767000000000, -122.39048000000000
Contact & Resources
Phone: 503-375-5646
Additional Information:
