* WHAT...Flooding caused by excessive rainfall continues to be possible. * WHERE...Northwest Oregon and southwest Washington including the following counties. In Oregon: Benton, Clackamas, Clatsop, Columbia, Hood River, Lane, Linn, Lincoln, Marion, Multnomah, Polk, Tillamook, Washington, and Yamhill. In Washington: Clark, Cowlitz, Pacific, Skamania, and Wahkiakum. * WHEN...Through Saturday afternoon. * IMPACTS...Excessive runoff may result in flooding of rivers, creeks, streams, and other low-lying and flood-prone locations. Flooding may occur in poor drainage and urban areas. Storm drains and ditches may become clogged with debris. Area creeks and streams are running high and could flood with more heavy rain. 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... - An atmospheric river is forecast to bring periods of heavy rain to northwestern Oregon and southwestern Washington today. This system occurs at a time when area rivers continue to run high and soils remain saturated following heavy rain earlier in the month. During initial heavy rainfall today, the urban and small stream flooding threat will be most urgent, although the details of precise timing and location of the highest risk remains uncertain at this time. As runoff works its way downstream, the river flooding threat will increase tonight into Friday, with numerous area rivers now forecast to reach at least Minor flood stage. Slower reacting rivers may stay in flood stage into Saturday afternoon. - http://www.weather.gov/safety/flood
The ideal streamflow range for the river is between 1000-5000 cfs, with the peak season being from late May to early July. The river is rated as a Class III-IV, with some sections reaching Class V during high water.
The segment mileage for the Little North Santiam River is approximately 14 miles, running from the Fishermen's Bend Recreation Site to the North Santiam State Park. The river is known for its technical rapids, including the "Hole in the Wall" and "Screaming Left Turn," which require precise navigation and experience.
Specific regulations to the area include a requirement for all boaters to wear a properly fitting personal flotation device (PFD) at all times. Additionally, all boaters must have a valid boater pass or permit, which can be obtained from the Oregon State Parks website.
Overall, the Little North Santiam River offers a challenging and rewarding whitewater experience for experienced boaters, with stunning scenery and exciting rapids. It is important to respect the regulations and safety guidelines in place to ensure a safe and enjoyable trip.
| Last Updated | 2025-06-28 |
| River Levels | 1320 cfs (3.11 ft) |
| Percent of Normal | 88% |
| Status | |
| Class Level | iii-iv |
| Elevation | ft |
| Streamflow Discharge | cfs |
| Gauge Height | ft |
| Reporting Streamgage | USGS 14181500 |
North Santiam River At Niagara
|
5920cfs |
Bull Creek Near Wilhoit
|
13cfs |
Little North Santiam River Near Mehama
|
1890cfs |
North Santiam River At Mehama
|
9010cfs |
Breitenbush R Abv French Cr Nr Detroit
|
1560cfs |
Schafer Creek Near Lacomb
|
12cfs |
| Location | Reservations | Toilets |
|---|---|---|
Elkhorn Valley Recreation Site
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Shady Cove Campground
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Santiam Horse Camp
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Fishermens Bend
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Fishermens Bend Recreation Site
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Butte Creek campground
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