North Fork Sprague River
Oregon
The North Fork of the Sprague flows out of the Gearhart Mountain Wilderness through broad, high-elevation meadows, before dropping into a steep basalt canyon. The river canyon offers views of a variety of plant life within the steep, narrow canyon. Vegetation color ranges from the green riparian areas, to the grey of the sagebrush covered slopes to the deep emerald of the forested areas, with lots of seasonal variation. The river canyon below Sandhill Crossing Campground is a steep V-shaped canyon with talus slopes and high-volume springs. A wide variety of recreational activities occur within the corridor. These include fishing, hiking, hunting, horseback riding, camping, picnicking, and floating or rafting during periods of high water. Opportunities for solitude are high on the Sprague River.
Designated Reach
October 28, 1988. From the head of River Spring in the southwest 1/4 Section 15, T35S, R16E to the northwest 1/4 of southwest Section 11, T35S, R15E.
Outstandingly Remarkable Values
Geology
The lower part of the designated river is a narrow, steep, V-shaped basaltic canyon with slopes that range from a 30 to 80 percent drop. Undisturbed talus slopes and outcroppings of bedrock are common. Several springs and tributaries burst from the canyon walls and each cascades beautifully down ...Show More
Scenery
The green colored hues of the riparian vegetation create a beautiful contrast to the brown/grey colors of the rocky outcroppings in the canyon. Seasonal variations in color come from vibrant wildflowers and the budding of deciduous trees and shrubs in the spring to the changing fall colors. The u...Show More
Managing Partners And Contacts
Classification/Mileage
