Shotgun Creek Recreation Site
Closed
— Open for day-use year-round. Shelter reservations are available May 1 through September 30. Water play areas are seasonal, typically available during summer months.
About
Shotgun Creek Recreation Site offers a refreshing day-use experience in a lush forest setting managed by the Bureau of Land Management. The site blends natural surroundings with well-maintained park facilities, making it popular for both casual visits and special events. Two large wooden shelters accommodate up to 112 people each and are available by reservation from May 1 through September 30, serving as venues for weddings, anniversaries, and family gatherings.
The recreation area features 23 individual picnic sites, 6.43 miles of hiking trails through the surrounding forest, and seasonal water play opportunities along Shotgun Creek. Active recreation options include sand volleyball and softball facilities, horseshoe pits, and a playground for children. During summer months, visitors enjoy cooling off in creek swimming areas, though water levels vary seasonally.
Located about 13 miles northeast of Springfield via Marcola Road, the site provides convenient access to the adjacent Shotgun OHV Trail System, a 34-mile network of off-highway vehicle trails with elevations ranging from 758 to 2,864 feet. The recreation site charges a $5 daily vehicle fee, with various BLM and Interagency passes accepted. This is a day-use only facility with no overnight camping available.
Directions
From the south: Take I-5 north to exit 194A (OR-126 E) towards Springfield. Travel 4 miles east to the 42nd St/Marcola exit and follow signs to Marcola for about 13.3 miles until Shotgun Creek Road (first paved road on the left). Turn left onto Shotgun Creek Road and follow for approximately 1.5 miles. The recreation site is on the right. From the north: Take I-5 south to exit 216 (OR-228) towards Brownsville/Crawfordsville. Turn right on Bush Creek Road just east of Crawfordsville. Drive 12.4 miles on Bush Creek Road, which becomes Marcola Road. Turn right just past the community of Mabel onto Shotgun Creek Road and follow for approximately 1.5 miles to the site on the right.
Nearby Campgrounds
