About Sharps Creek Recreation Site
Overview Overnight camping is closed until further notice. Day-use recreation areas remain open for public use.Reserve a site at Sharps Creek on recreation.gov or pay when you arrive for non-reserved campsites using the Recreation.gov Mobile App. You must download before you reach the site since there is no cell reception in the drainage. Step off the beaten path and explore a delightful gem nestled in the foothills of the Cascade Mountains with ties to the historic Bohemia Mining District, 18 miles southeast of Cottage Grove. The site offers a 12-unit campground, day-use picnicking area, and a nearby swimming hole formed naturally among rounded boulders at the base of an overlook extending above Sharps Creek. Cool and delightful waters entice the visitor to swim or simply 'dabble' along the bank while enjoying the surrounding beauty of the forest. For those with a penchant for gold panning, the site offers exciting opportunities to try one's skill and luck!The Springfield Office of the Northwest Oregon District of the Bureau of Land Management manages the Sharps Creek Recreation Site.Recreation Sharps Creek Recreation Site consists of a small, family campground and a day-use area overlooking Sharps Creek. A swimming hole at the base of the overlook provides a refreshing place to cool down on hot, summer days. All swimmers should use caution. Facilities Sharps Creek Campground offers 12 campsites with easy access to the day use swimming area next door. The campground has vault toilets and running water. There is no Cellular Service at the site. Natural Features Sharps Creek campground and the surrounding area are home to large canopy trees such as Douglas fir, western hemlock, red cedar, red alder and big leaf maple. The forest understory features a host of native plants like rhododendron, salal, various fern species, salmonberry and vine maple. On the forest floor, oxalis, Calypso orchids and mosses compliment the scenery. A diverse variety of bird life, from the s
How to Get There
Take Cottage Grove exit 174 from Interstate Highway 5. Turn left onto Row River Road and follow signs to Dorena Lake (Approximately 4 miles). Continue straight on Shoreview Drive for 6.6 miles to rejoin Row River Road (covered bridge to the right). Continue traveling east 4.2 miles to Sharps Creek Road. Turn right and continue 3.1 miles. The campground is located on the right side of the road; the day use area is on the left.
Driving directions (Google Maps) →What to Pack for Your Stay
Tuned to the live forecast for this park.
👔 What to Wear
- 👕
Long-sleeve shirt
Synthetic or merino, sun-protective.
- 🧥
Light shell or windbreaker
Even on warm days, wind can chill (avg wind 0 mph).
- 👖
Hiking pants or convertible
Layer for variable conditions.
- 🥾
Trail runners or low boots
Comfortable, broken in.
🎒 What to Pack
- 💧
Water
Bring at least 1L of water; more in heat.
- 🍫
High-energy snacks
A snack for the trail.
- 🧴
Sun protection
Sunscreen, sunglasses, brimmed hat.
- 🩹
First-aid kit
Blister patches, ibuprofen, tape, antiseptic wipes.
- 🗺
Offline map
Download your route in advance via Gaia, Caltopo, or OSM-based apps.
Recommendations adapt to the current forecast + trail stats. Use them as a starting point — local conditions, your experience, and the time of day you start all matter.
Plan Your Visit to Sharps Creek Recreation Site
Heading to Sharps Creek Recreation Site? A few things to know before you go:
- Reservations: popular sites fill up fast — check Recreation.gov 6 months in advance
- Fees: day-use and camping fees vary; check current rates on the official park page
- Trash & pack-out: follow Leave No Trace principles
- Wildlife: store food in bear boxes where provided; never feed wildlife
- Weather: the 5-day forecast above is updated every 6 hours; verify just before you go
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I need a reservation for Sharps Creek Recreation Site?
No central reservation system listed for Sharps Creek Recreation Site. Check the official page (https://www.recreation.gov/camping/campgrounds/273311) for the latest entry policy and availability.
How do I get to Sharps Creek Recreation Site?
Take Cottage Grove exit 174 from Interstate Highway 5. Turn left onto Row River Road and follow signs to Dorena Lake (Approximately 4 miles). Continue straight on Shoreview Drive for 6.6 miles to rejoin Row River Road (covered bridge to the right). Continue traveling east 4.2 miles to Sharps Creek Road. Turn right and continue 3.1 miles. The campground is located on the right side of the road; the…
How do I contact Sharps Creek Recreation Site?
You can reach the park at phone: 503-375-5646 or email: blm_or_no_mail@blm.gov.
References & Official Resources