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🏞️ River Swim  ·  Willamette Valley

Three Pools (Little North Santiam River)

📍 near Opal Creek / Mehama
Nearest Town
$5 day-use fee or Northwest Forest Pass
Entry Fee
💧 Cool, clear
Water Temp
🟡 Moderate
Difficulty
📅 Summer
Best Season
⚠️ Safety Notice — Read Before Visiting
The Santiam river system is known for currents that can shift quickly with upstream conditions — check current flow/any advisories before swimming, especially with kids.
🏞️ River Swim 🟡 Moderate $5 day-use fee or Northwest Forest Pass ⚠️ Safety Note
🌊 About Three Pools (Little North Santiam River)

One of the best family swimming destinations in the state, a series of clear, deep pools along the Little North Santiam River near the Opal Creek area.

📋 Visit Details
Entry Fee
$5 day-use fee or Northwest Forest Pass
Water Temperature
💧 Cool, clear
Best Season
📅 Summer
Reservation
yes (seasonally required via Recreation.gov)
Water Type
Series of deep river pools
Managed By
US Forest Service (Willamette National Forest)
County
Marion County, Oregon
Access Difficulty
🟡 Moderate
🗺️ Getting There

Address / Access Point:
Little North Santiam Rd, near Opal Creek, OR

Access Notes:
Easy-to-moderate access; one of Oregon's most popular family swimming destinations near this river

GPS Coordinates
44.8398, -122.3106
Open in Google Maps →
✅ Before You Go — Checklist
  • ✓
    Check current water conditions — especially after recent rain
  • ✓
    Save GPS coordinates offline before leaving — cell service may be limited
  • $
    Bring cash or card for entry: $5 day-use fee or Northwest Forest Pass
  • ✓
    Pack reef-safe sunscreen, dry bag, water shoes and plenty of drinking water
  • ✓
    Tell someone where you are going before heading to a remote location
  • ✓
    Pack out everything you bring in — leave no trace
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