Rogue River-Siskiyou National Forest

Recreation - Rivers

Converging mountain ranges carved by ribbons of wild rivers rushing to the Pacific Ocean create a recreational setting unique in the Pacific Northwest. These free-flowing pristine rivers are the lifeblood of the coastal and valley communities adjacent to the forest.

Whether floating wild rivers, driving scenic roads, or hiking rugged wildlands, visitors to the Rogue River-Siskiyou National Forest can experience solitude - a rare find on forests west of the Cascades. Rustic sites carefully nestled throughout the forest support dispersed recreation opportunities and sustain the natural resources. Concentrated use is focused at a few key lakes and river stretches as well as the beautiful Mt Ashland area.

Five wild and scenic rivers that include the Chetco, Elk, Illinois, North Fork and Rogue Rivers, that weave over 200 miles, provide both residents and visitors year-round recreational opportunities . These rivers are renowed for their salmon, steelhead and trout fishing.

Wild and Scenic Rivers Act:

The Wild and Scenic Rivers Act (Public Law 90-542; 16 U.S.C. 1271-1287) was enacted on October 2, 1968. It has been amended many times, primarily to designate additional rivers and authorize additional rivers for study for possible inclusion. The Act provides a national policy and program to preserve and protect selected rivers, or segments of rivers, in their free-flowing condition in the National System. Due to the dams, diversions and water resource development projects which occurred from the 1930s to the 1960s, the need for a national system of river protection was recognized by conservationists (notably Frank and John Craighead), congressional representatives such as Senator Frank Church of Idaho, and federal agencies. The Act was an outgrowth of a national conservation agenda of the 1950s and 1960s, captured in the 1962 recommendations of the Outdoor Recreation Resources Review Commission. The Act concluded that selected rivers be preserved in a free-flowing condition and be protected for the benefit and enjoyment of present and future generations.

Safe Boating

Visit the Oregon State Marine Board. The Marine Board registers boats and provides boating safety education, law enforcement, and facilities such as launch ramps, restrooms, and parking lots. The Marine Board's goal is to help boaters have a safe, enjoyable time on the water.

Each party member should:

• Wear a US Coast Guard approved Personal Safety Device (life jacket) rated Type III or Type V.
• Carry a comprehensive first aid kit.
• Carry at least one spare set of oars or breakdown paddles.
• Keep other party members in sight while boating.
• Make helmets a part of your river wardrobe.

Search and rescue costs can become the responsibility of the individual rescued.

Make sure your party has experienced boaters and self-rescue plans in case someone gets into trouble.

For Current River Conditions Visit the USGS Site.