* WHAT...River and urban flooding caused by excessive rainfall is possible. Landslides possible in areas of steep terrain, and debris flows possible over recently burned areas. * WHERE...Counties in Oregon: Benton, Clackamas, Clatsop, Columbia, Hood River, Lane, Lincoln, Linn, Marion, Multnomah, Polk, Tillamook, Washington, and Yamhill. Counties in Washington: Clark, Cowlitz, Pacific, Skamania, and Wahkiakum. * WHEN...From late tonight through late Thursday night. * IMPACTS...Excessive runoff may result in flooding of rivers, creeks, streams, and other low-lying and flood-prone locations. Landslides and debris flows are possible during this flood event. People, structures, and roads located below steep slopes, in canyons, and near the mouths of canyons may be at serious risk from rapidly moving landslides. * ADDITIONAL DETAILS... - A prolonged atmospheric river is expected to bring periods of heavy rain to northwest Oregon and southwest Washington Monday through Wednesday, with periods of lighter rain continuing Thursday into Friday. Rivers draining the coastal mountains and several Willamette Tributaries have the highest chance of flooding at 40 to 80%. Chances for flooding along the Willamette mainstem remains low at less than 10%. Urban flooding is possible and water on roadways will increase the risk of hydroplaning. Landslides in areas of steep terrain will be possible, as well as debris flows over recently burned areas. - http://www.weather.gov/safety/flood
The ideal streamflow range for this river run is between 1,000 and 3,000 cubic feet per second (cfs), which typically occurs during the spring and early summer months.
The North Santiam River is rated as a Class III river, making it suitable for intermediate-level paddlers. The segment mileage of this river run is approximately 9 miles, starting at the Fishermen's Bend Recreation Site and ending at the Stayton Bridge.
There are several rapids and obstacles along the North Santiam River, including Mill City Falls, Big Cliff Dam, and the "Ledges" section of the river. Mill City Falls is a Class III rapid that requires careful navigation, while the Big Cliff Dam is a significant obstacle that must be portaged around.
To ensure safety and preserve the natural beauty of the area, there are specific regulations in place for the North Santiam River. All watercraft must have a current Oregon State Marine Board registration, and all paddlers must wear a U.S. Coast Guard-approved personal flotation device (PFD) at all times while on the river. Additionally, camping and fires are prohibited along the riverbank, and visitors are urged to pack out all trash and leave the area as they found it.
| Last Updated | 2025-06-28 |
| River Levels | 1240 cfs (3.41 ft) |
| Percent of Normal | 70% |
| Status | |
| Class Level | iii |
| Elevation | ft |
| Streamflow Discharge | cfs |
| Gauge Height | ft |
| Reporting Streamgage | USGS 14183000 |
North Santiam River At Mehama
|
6130cfs |
Little North Santiam River Near Mehama
|
2540cfs |
Thomas Creek Near Scio
|
683cfs |
Schafer Creek Near Lacomb
|
13cfs |
North Santiam River At Niagara
|
2780cfs |
Bull Creek Near Wilhoit
|
9cfs |
| Location | Reservations | Toilets |
|---|---|---|
John Neal Memorial Park
|
||
Shellburg
|
||
Shellburg shelter
|
||
Camp Silver Creek
|
||
Fishermens Bend Recreation Site
|
||
Fishermens Bend
|