Adventure Collective
HomeProtected PlacesAlsea Falls Recreation Site
Alsea Falls Recreation Site adventures

Alsea Falls Recreation Site Adventures

Alsea Falls Recreation Site offers a tranquil forest setting featuring a stunning waterfall, hiking trails, and camping opportunities within the heart of the Oregon Coast Range.

78
Acres Protected
3.5
Miles of Trails
20,000
Annual Visitors
1930s
Year Established

About Alsea Falls Recreation Site

 

Alsea Falls Recreation Site is located within the Siuslaw National Forest in western Oregon, positioned along the scenic Alsea River corridor. The site’s centerpiece is the 30-foot Alsea Falls, a broad curtain waterfall that drops directly into the river, providing a picturesque focal point for visitors. The site covers a lush temperate rainforest environment dominated by Douglas-fir, western hemlock, and western red cedar. This area supports diverse wildlife such as black-tailed deer, Roosevelt elk, various songbirds, and aquatic species like native trout, making it an excellent spot for wildlife observation and fishing. Historically, the area was originally inhabited by the Alsea Tribe, for whom the river is named. Today, Alsea Falls Recreation Site is a popular destination for day visitors and campers seeking forest immersion with easy access. Hiking trails range from short interpretive loops to longer routes connecting with the larger forest system. The campground includes both tent and RV sites alongside picnic areas and restrooms. The site is particularly favored during spring and summer for its wildflower displays and cool forest shade. Anglers target trout and steelhead in the river, while photographers capture the falls and surrounding greenery year-round. Alsea Falls Recreation Site’s proximity to coastal towns and its combination of natural beauty and recreational amenities make it a sought-after destination for visitors wanting a serene outdoor experience within Oregon’s Coast Range.

Highlights

Highlight

Alsea Falls – a wide, 30-foot waterfall flowing over basalt cliffs

Highlight

Old-growth Douglas-fir and western hemlock forest ecosystem

Highlight

Fishing opportunities in the Alsea River, known for trout and steelhead

Highlight

Picnic and camping facilities situated in a peaceful forest setting

Notable Natural Features

Alsea Falls

A broad waterfall dropping about 30 feet into the Alsea River, accessible via a short trail and designated viewing platforms.

Alsea River

A cold-water river running through the site, popular for fly fishing and supporting native trout and steelhead populations.

Picnic Area

Sheltered picnic tables located near the campground with forest views and easy access to trails.