Elkhorn Valley Recreation Site

About

Elkhorn Valley Recreation Site is a Bureau of Land Management campground nestled along the scenic Little North Santiam River in Oregon's Cascade foothills, approximately 33 miles east of Salem. When operational, the campground offered 23 family campsites featuring fire pits, picnic tables, tent pads, and designated paved parking, along with vault toilets and potable water. The site provides access to excellent swimming holes in the Little North Santiam River, fishing opportunities, and hiking trails. It sits within the Little North Santiam Recreation Area, near popular destinations like Three Pools, Shady Cove, and Opal Creek Wilderness. The campground sustained heavy damage during the 2020 Santiam Canyon Fires and remains closed for camping indefinitely. Limited day-use picnic facilities in the first loop are currently operational, offering vault toilets, trash services, and river access. No reopening date has been announced for camping operations.

Directions

From Salem, take State Highway 22 East for approximately 24 miles. Turn left on North Fork County Road. Elkhorn Valley is 8.5 miles up North Fork County Road. Traffic is high during summer. Be aware of slippery roads during wet and icy weather.