7 - Carey Creek to Riggins

This is a wonderful section of river immediately downstream of the more well-known Main Salmon which is the classic multi-day trip. This river segment flows for 28 miles among pine forests and granite walls with the Salmon River Road (Forest Road 1614) paralleling the river. It provides great opportunities for day trips with easy logistics and good camping (either in campgrounds or on one of the many sandy beaches) with no permits are required. While the high flows of spring can create hazardous conditions (experts only), mid-summer brings more moderate flows and classic pool-drop rapids with good flatwater recovery sections in between. Some nice beaches provide places to hang out for lunch or engage in water play. Local outfitters provide options for less experienced paddlers who have interest in a day trip (check with outfitters in Riggins). Logistics: A Salmon River Road (Forest Road 1614) offers multiple access points. In addition to the formal sites below there are a few beaches that can be accessed from the road and are enjoyed when they emerge during the later half of the summer. The turn for the Salmon River Road (Forest Road 1614) is at Highway 95 mile 194.4 at the south end of town in Riggins. The road heads east for 26 miles where it ends at Vinegar Creek. Access points and features along the way include: Mile 1.4, Shorts Bar: This primitive campground (no fee) and boat launch is administered by the Bureau of Land Management. Mile 2.3, road becomes single lane Mile 4.0, Island Bar: This primitive campground (no fee) and boat launch is administered by the Bureau of Land Management. Mile 6.6, Lake Creek Bridge (aka Yellow Bridge) Mile 9.8, Allison Creek Picnic Area: Picnic site along the Salmon River administered by the Forest Service. Mile 10.5, Spring Bar Campground: This fee campground administered by the Forest Service offers a boat launching ramp and 18 tent campsites that are open year around. A table and fire ring are provided at all but two of the sites. Campsites are available on a first-come, first-serve basis. Mile 11.3, Van Creek Campground: primitive camping area with toilet administered by the Forest Service. Mile 12.7, pavement ends Mile 13.6, Manning Bridge: river crossing originally constructed by the CCC with the new bridge constructed in 2018. Mile 23.4, Carey Creek River Access: This is a popular access point for rafters and kayakers with a paved ramp that provides easy access to the river. The site has picnic tables and toilets. Mile 26.0 Vinegar Creek River Access: End of road site and heavily used by jet boaters. Site has a boat launching ramp, but is not recommended for average user (4-wheel drive and winch required to get back up the ramp). Toilets are available here.