Whittaker Creek

Located near Linslaw in Lane County, Whittaker Creek Recreation Site provides paved boat ramp access to the Siuslaw River at the confluence of Whittaker Creek. This BLM facility is ideal for kayakers, canoeists, and drift boaters looking to launch into scenic river paddling. The site offers a full campground (currently with some sites undergoing invasive species removal) and day-use facilities, making it convenient for multi-day trips or day paddling excursions.

The Siuslaw River stretch from this access point offers 6.5 miles of Class II–III rapids, requiring intermediate paddling skills. No permit is required for paddling. Beyond the water access, the recreation site features a swimming beach, wildlife viewing areas, and the trailhead for the Old Growth Ridge Trail if you're looking for land-based activities. Campsite fees apply if staying overnight (cash or check made out to BLM); day-use access is available. The site is located about 29 miles west of Eugene via Highway 126 and Siuslaw River Road, making it accessible for both regional paddlers and visitors.

Overview
Partial Temporary Closure of Campsites
Whittaker Creek Campground will have a short temporary closure of camp sites 16-31 while we remove invasive species that are threatening the natural ecosystem within the park. As the sites are cleared and safe to utilize, we will open them for use on a rolling basis starting with the westernmost sites.  

Reserve a site at Whittaker Creek on...

Overview
Partial Temporary Closure of Campsites
Whittaker Creek Campground will have a short temporary closure of camp sites 16-31 while we remove invasive species that are threatening the natural ecosystem within the park. As the sites are cleared and safe to utilize, we will open them for use on a rolling basis starting with the westernmost sites.  

Reserve a site at Whittaker Creek on recreation.gov or pay when you arrive for non-reserved campsites using the Recreation.gov Mobile App. You must download before you reach the site since there is no cell reception in the drainage. 
Whittaker Creek Recreation Site is a Bureau of Land Management (BLM) campground and day use area. The campground has 30 sites. Campground amenities include vault toilets, potable water, picnic areas, a children's play area, an Old Growth Ridge National Recreation Trail (2.5 miles), and a swimming area. 
In the fall, winter, and spring, busloads of middle school students visit the Whittaker Creek Watchable Wildlife Site to learn about spawning salmon and trout and to assist with the Oregon Department of Fish and Wildlife's breeding program. 
Recreation
Camping, hiking, swimming, fishing in Siuslaw River, photography, hunting, Salmon Watch, and nature study.
Facilities
Facilities include: 30 tent only campsites (not recommended for trailers), an accessible campsite, 2 picnic sites, accessible vault toilets, potable water available from hand pumps, picnic tables, fire rings, swimming beach area (June-September), horseshoe pit, Old Growth Ridge National Recreation Trail (2.5 mile loop trail), and a camp host (June-September). Electricity and firewood are unavailable.
Natural Features
Besides the trail to the wildlife viewing area, you can hike the Old Growth Ridge National Recreation Trail, which climbs 1,000 feet above the river into the Coast Range. The 2.5-mile trail was designated in 1994 as a National Recreation Trail due to the exceptional wildlife, geologic features, and old growth trees that are typical of coast range ecosystems. This moderately difficult trail winds through a stand of old growth Douglas fir and offers a look at geologic and botanical features unique to the area.

Chinook and coho salmon, as well as steelhead trout can be observed in the fall and winter months in the creek next to the campground.

The site also features a paved boat ramp that provides drift boat and canoe access to the Siuslaw River. No permit required to paddle the 6.5-mile river, with Class II - III rapids.

Nearby Attractions

Clay Creek Campground, is approximately 16 miles past Whittaker Creek.
The Oregon Coast is less than 30 miles from this recreation site.
(Florence) Alder Dune Campground
(Florence) Archie Knowles Campground
(Florence) B & E Wayside Mobile and RV Park
(Cottage Grove) Baker Bay Campground
(Dorena) Baker Bay County Park
(Westfir) Bedrock Camp
You can observe Chinook, and Coho salmon, as well as steelhead trout in the fall and winter months in the creek next to the campground during Salmon Watch.


Contact Info
For local information, please call (541) 683-6600 or call (503) 375-5646 for general information.Charges & Cancellations
Standard fees apply and are non-refundable.
Visit https://www.recreation.gov/rules-reservation-policies for more information.

Read More Read Less