Elkhorn Creek Wild and Scenic River

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 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.