• Sharps Creek is a natural oasis in the lush forest of the Cascade Mountains
• Features pristine swimming holes in the bedrock
One of the best summer destinations near Cottage Grove, Sharps Creek Recreation Area is nestled in the foothill of the Cascade Mountains at the edge of the Umpqua National Forest. Most of the public land of Sharps Creeks, a tributary of the Row River, is occupied by mining claims except this scenic recreation site managed by BLM.
A natural oasis in the lush evergreen forest offers plenty of opportunities for outdoor activities including hiking, wildlife viewing, picnicking, camping, and even recreational gold panning. The 16-mile paved Row River Trail offers a variety of opportunities for hikers, equestrians, and bicyclists to enjoy the scenic beauty of picturesque views of the Row River, Dorena Reservoir, and covered bridges. The historic Bohemia Mining Area is located nearby.
Sharps Creek offers opportunities for swimming to beat a summer heat. There are two scenic swimming holes at this site surrounded by cliffs and formation rocks. The deepest and largest pool is a round-shaped with dark-green water and a cliff that is used for jumping by adventure seekers. Adjusted to the beach, the small pool is perfect for swimming and wading.
A beautiful pristine hole is formed in bedrock by the river's flow. The bedrock bench across the creek separates two pools and allows you to wander and explore the beautiful summer swimming spot.
Cautions: Cliff jumping and slippery rocks are associated with risks, please use caution and make safe decisions.
Shaded by the old-growth forest, Sharps Creek Campground consists of 11-unit campsites open from May through early fall.
Sharps Creek offers opportunities for fishing (trout should be released).
Recreational panning for gold is allowed within or near the recreational site from June 1st to September 15th.
Sharps Creek | General Description
Open: May - September from dawn to dusk
Managed by: BLM
Location: Sharps Creek Recreation Area
Services: Toilets, potable water, garbage service, picnic sites
Activities: Swimming, rock jumping, fishing, hiking, panning for gold
Distance from the parking: Short
Road access: Any passenger vehicle
Day-use fees: None
Dogs: Must be on a leash
Popularity: Moderate to high
Accommodations: Sharps Creek Campground
Affordable vacation rentals for short and long term stay at Cottage Grove
Elevation: 1,200 ft (366 m)
Sharps Creek is located:
- 18 miles southeast of Cottage Grove
- 40 miles southeast of Eugene
- 60 miles northeast of Roseburg
- 101 miles southeast of Salem.
Swimming hole rating: 4 out of 5
Body of Water: River
Water quality: Transparent
Current: Moderate
Depth: Deep and shallow
Beach: Bedrock and gravel
Water T° (summer): Cool
Adventures Nearby
Directions to Sharps Creek
From I-5,
- Take exit 174 for Cottage Grove and Dorena Lake
- Turn left and follow 4 miles on Row River Road
- Travel 6.6 miles onto Shoreview Drive/Government Road until it merges onto Row River Road
- Continue 4.3 miles to Sharps Creek Road
- Turn right and continue for 2.9 miles.
The campground will be on your right and the day-use area on your left.
Phone: 541-683-6600