Enjoy summer fun from paddling to waterfall hikes along one of Oregon’s finest rivers.
From waterfalls to whitewater, the North Umpqua River region is a summertime playground that stretches along the river corridor from Roseburg to near Crater Lake in the northern part of the 1-million-acre Umpqua National Forest. There’s almost too much to choose from in this area. Some visitors enjoy a heart-thumping paddle down Class IV rapids; others prefer a gentle float. You can grab a fly rod to angle for steelhead, explore breathtaking waterfalls or find a swimming hole for a lazy day. Here’s how to plan your outdoor adventure in Umpqua country.
Explore Waterfalls and Hot Springs
The North Umpqua River originates in cold springs near Crater Lake and flows down the west side of the Cascades through a rugged and forested canyon. Here Highway 138 earns its status as a National Scenic Byway, following the river from Roseburg to Diamond Lake and Crater Lake National Park.
One of the star attractions along the byway is the tour of waterfalls. Many pretty cascades on the route, like Clearwater Falls, are easy to access from adjacent campgrounds. Others, including Toketee Falls, an elegant veil that plunges gracefully over a columnar basalt cliff, require a short hike.
Detour from the main highway to check out Cavitt Creek Falls, about 25 miles southeast of Roseburg. At this lower-elevation site, you can camp and plunge into the refreshing waters underneath a short, wide cascade; be aware that campsites are limited and you must reserve five days in advance. Just up the road, you can access the Wolf Creek Falls trail, an easy 1-mile route that leads to a two-tiered waterfall and plunge pools.
Adventurous travelers should seek out a soak in Umpqua Hot Springs, about 60 miles east of Roseburg. You can access these travertine-lined pools, which are perched on a cliff above the river, via a short but steep trail. Expect company — and nudity — and be aware that the Forest Road leading to the Hot Springs trailhead typically closes in late fall or winter, adding several miles to the hike in.
For a guided tour of the waterfalls with local experts, book ahead at Umpqua’s Last Resort in Dry Creek, which also offers full-hookup RV sites, cabins and glamping in canvas-walled tents.
Outdoor Fun on Watercraft or Along the Trail
Paddlers and rafters flock to the frothy North Umpqua River during the prime months of May through July. Go with experienced outfitters like Orange Torpedo — which offers one- and two-day trips through Class II and Class III rapids — or North Umpqua Outfitters, where you can choose from half-day and full-day rafting and kayaking trips and multiday rafting trips in collaboration with the Steamboat Inn.
If you’re looking for something a little more chill, consider a float or swim. Access one popular, mellow section right from Roseburg. For a short, two-hour float, put in at John P. Amacher County Park and take out at Hestness Landing or River Forks County Park. The sandy beach here is popular with locals escaping the summer heat. Enjoy this or another swimming hole near Roseburg.
Also in Roseburg, you can ride along the Umpqua River on an 18-foot wooden boat with an expert naturalist. Book a nature tour with Blue Dream Wildlife River Tours, featuring quiet wildlife viewing floats.
If you’re craving a longer hike, take on a section of the North Umpqua Trail. Open to hikers, mountain bikers and equestrians, the signature trail follows the river for nearly 80 miles. Just keep in mind that recent wildfires have damaged and changed many sections of trail. To see the recovering landscape, trek through the first miles of the Tioga and Swiftwater segments, which have been cleared. Before you go, check with the NUT Fairies or National Forest Foundation for updates.
Riverside Fishing and Overnight Stays
Extend your adventure with an overnight stay at a Forest Service campground. Horseshoe Bend, nestled in a stand of old-growth conifers about 50 miles east of Roseburg, is popular with anglers and is also a good place to put in. Farther east, choose from 33 lakeside sites at Toketee Lake Group Campground.
For a more remote getaway, check out low-key Clearwater Falls Campground, where icy spring water tumbles over mossy boulders; or East Lemolo Campground at Lemolo Lake, a smaller, quieter alternative to Diamond Lake where you can take a dip and fish for trout or kokanee.
Note that all Forest Service recreation sites in the Umpqua National Forest — including campgrounds, day-use areas and boat ramps — transitioned to cashless fee collection in 2026. Be sure to download the app for the reservation website; you should reserve campsites ahead of your visit online, but you’ll need the app to scan QR codes at other recreation sites to pay.
For a relaxing stay at a classic river lodge, book a room with Umpqua views and a deep soaking tub at the angler-friendly Steamboat Inn.
Top photo courtesy of North Umpqua Outfitters
