About Cow Creek Back Country Byway
Get ready for a beautiful drive through history as you follow the winding Cow Creek Back Country Byway. The route is 45-miles long and parallels Cow Creek most of your journey. This rustic two-lane road is a great alternative to Interstate 5 and connects the towns of Riddle and Glendale. Along the byway are interpretive signs that talk about the history of the long forgotten town of West Fork, the historic railroad, and gold mining in the area. The Island Creek Day Use Area is a great stop to stretch your legs, pan for gold, or have a creek-side picnic during your drive. Skull Creek Campground is a free first-come, first served campground offering up 5 sites for weary travelers.Know Before You GoThe railroad is still active and follows the original Oregon and California Railroad Company grade built in 1869.Portions of the surrounding forest land were burned in the Douglas Complex Fire in 2013.Be respectful and do not trespass on private mining claims marked along the creek.Stay alert on the blind corners as logging trucks are common.Point of InterestSpring is the best time to view the abundance of wildflowers. In summer, visitors can swim, fish, and pan for gold in Cow Creek. In autumn, enjoy the glorious changing foliage and the elusive salmon spawning.
How to Get There
Interstate 5 from the north, take Exit 103 (Riddle) and head west on Riddle Bypass Road, eventually turning into the Byway route. Interstate 5 from the south, take Exit 80 (Glendale) and follow county road 263 to county road 39, and finally county road 164, which becomes the Cow Creek Road.
Driving directions (Google Maps) →Plan Your Visit to Cow Creek Back Country Byway
Heading to Cow Creek Back Country Byway? 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 Cow Creek Back Country Byway?
Yes — reservations can be made on Recreation.gov. Popular sites fill quickly, especially weekends and holidays. Book up to 6 months in advance.
How do I get to Cow Creek Back Country Byway?
Interstate 5 from the north, take Exit 103 (Riddle) and head west on Riddle Bypass Road, eventually turning into the Byway route. Interstate 5 from the south, take Exit 80 (Glendale) and follow county road 263 to county road 39, and finally county road 164, which becomes the Cow Creek Road.
How do I contact Cow Creek Back Country Byway?
You can reach the park at phone: 541-440-4930 or email: BLM_OR_RB_Mail@blm.gov.
References & Official Resources
