Marion County Swimming Holes

Canyon Creek
Canyon Creek
Rating: 8
Location: Bureau of Land Management
Water quality: Excellent; transparent to bottom
Vital statistics: 60' wide; at least 10' deep; moderate current; 71' F (July); light algae; pebble and gravel bottom; moderate to heavy use
Setting: Forested valley at 880'; moderate litter
Swim skill: Moderate
Amenities: Drinking water; pit toilets
Entry fee: No
Topo: Mill City North 7-1/2'

Though this is a relatively small hole at a crook in the river, it is a wonderful spot. There are both shallows and depths. During high water there is a nice rapids upstream of the hole. Coarse sand and pebbles make a fine beach. Sunning rocks across the river are an easy swim from the beach, and beautiful high cliffs tower above. A house a short way downstream adds the only jarring note.

Driving Instructions

Canyon Creek is 29.1 miles east of Salem. Follow the driving instructions for Swimming Hole #133 to the recreation area turnoff. Turn left and drive to the Canyon Creek entrance, 7.2 miles, between mileposts, 30 and 31. Turn left into the park.

Hiking Instructions

The short trail to the river is down a stairway near the pit toilets.




Published: 29 Apr 2002 | Last Updated: 20 May 2011
Details mentioned in this article were accurate at the time of publication

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