Wildwood Falls Is A Short And Sweet Trail That Leads To A Dazzling Waterfall Swimming Hole In Oregon
By Catherine Armstrong|Published July 16, 2020
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Catherine Armstrong
Author
Writer, editor and researcher with a passion for exploring new places. Catherine loves local bookstores, independent films, and spending time with her family, including Gus the golden retriever, who is a very good boy.
When the temperatures climb, it’s time to head for a swimming hole in the woods to cool off. Oregon has no shortage of pretty rivers that flow clear and cold, and folks have their own secret swimming spots all over the state.
Wildwood Falls is not much of a secret – it’s a popular place to splash and relax in Lane County, near Cottage Grove. Grab some sunscreen and a towel, and check this place out!
Wildwood Falls (sometimes called Row Falls) is located along the Row River, south of the Dorena Covered Bridge. It's sandwiched between Wildwood Falls Park and LaSells Stewart Park, and managed by the Lane County Parks system.
The falls is about 45 minutes from Eugene, and 25 minutes from Cottage Grove.
The falls cascade 15 feet over the basalt cliffs into a large basin, and a few smaller cascades often trickle over the cliffs on both sides of the main falls.
The large, 20-foot-deep swimming hole is popular with locals, so don't plan on having this place all to yourself on a Saturday afternoon. Luckily, it's large enough to accommodate plenty of summer fun seekers.
If you're brave, you can jump from the cliffs into the water, but make sure to check the water level first! The best jumping-off spot is to the left of the main falls.
Wear some water shoes, and be aware that the rocks at the top of the falls, and those along the banks of the river can be very slippery.
As long as you're aware of safety hazards, you'll have a great time splashing and playing in the swimming hole at Wildwood Falls and hanging out on the banks of the river.
Bring a picnic lunch along. Wildwood Falls Park and LaSells Stewart Park both offer picnic tables and public restrooms. You'll pay a small day use fee to enjoy this area, but it's well worth the fee to enjoy this pretty place.
Please remember to always practice the principles of Leave No Trace when enjoying Oregon's beautiful nature spots. Pack out your picnic trash to keep this place pristine for future visitors.
Have you enjoyed a day at Wildwood Falls? Tell our readers about your experience in the comments!
