SANTIAM STATE FOREST
North Santiam State Park plays host to some of the most beautiful riverfront in the area. It is one of the finest steelhead fishing spots on the North Santiam River. North Santiam State Park is an undisturbed day-use area with drinking fountain and restroom facilities. Picnic tables dot the grass, making North Santiam State Park a great place to stop to stretch and eat a picnic lunch. Hiking trails show the beauty of the large old-growth trees and the river.
Early History: Before the arrival of European settlers, the Santiam Canyon, where Santiam State Forest is now located, was primarily inhabited by various Native American tribes, including the Kalapuya, Molalla, Santiam, and others. These Native American groups relied on the forest and its resources for hunting, gathering, and various cultural practices.
Logging Expansion: The late 19th century saw widespread logging activities across Oregon, and the Santiam Canyon was no exception. Logging companies began clearcutting large sections of the forest to extract valuable timber, leading to significant environmental degradation.
Creation of Santiam State Forest: By the 1930s, the unsustainable logging practices had taken a toll on the forest, resulting in erosion, soil degradation, and important wildlife habitat loss. In response, the State of Oregon intervened and acquired large portions of the land. In 1949, the Santiam State Forest was officially established.
1. North Santiam State Recreation Area: This is a day-use park along the banks of the North Santiam River that offers picnic spots, fishing and boating opportunities.
2. Fishermen's Bend Campground: Located on the bank of North Santiam River, this campground provides RV sites with hookups as well as tent camping areas.
3. Elkhorn Valley Campground: Nestled in old growth forest alongside Little N Fork river, it has 23 campsites for tents or self-contained RVs.
4. Detroit Lake State Park: It's not exactly within but near to santium state forest which features over 300 spacious campsite including yurts and cabins available year-round where you can enjoy activities like swimming,boating etc.
5. Shady Cove Group Site: A group site located at Shady Cover offering amenities such as drinking water & vault toilets suitable for family gatherings.
6. River Edge Summer Home Tract: Offers seasonal rentals from May through October . The tract includes both single:family units and duplexes.
7. Santaim Flats Day Use Area And Boat Ramp: Although primarily used by rafters/kayakers/anglers launching boats onto upper section of north fork santain river there are few primitive campsites too.
Search for a vacation rental
Santiam State Forest offers several swimming options for visitors. The North Santiam River, which runs through the forest, is a popular spot for swimmers and provides an opportunity to cool off during hot summer days. There are also numerous creeks throughout the forest that offer secluded spots perfect for taking a dip.
Elkhorn Valley Recreation Site located within this state forest has designated areas along Elkhorn Creek where you can swim safely while enjoying scenic views of surrounding wilderness.
For those who prefer lake swimming, Fish Lake Remount Depot Cabins provide access to Fish Lake - known as one of Oregon's best high mountain lakes with clear water ideal for both fishing and swimming.
Shellburg Falls Recreational Area features Shellburg creek running alongside it providing another option if you fancy wilder waters or want some waterfall adventure combined with your swim experience.
In this lush woodland area, fishing enthusiasts can enjoy a variety of options. The rivers and streams are teeming with different species such as Chinook salmon, steelhead trout, rainbow trout and cutthroat trout. Anglers may choose to fish in the larger bodies of water or opt for smaller creeks that run through the forested landscape. Whether you prefer fly-fishing or traditional rod-and-reel methods, there's something here for everyone who enjoys casting a line amidst beautiful natural surroundings.