Explore Wildwood Recreation Site
Wildwood Recreation Site, located along a bend of the Wild & Scenic Salmon River near the town of Welches, offers a delightful escape for families seeking outdoor adventure. Encompassing 550 acres filled with old-growth Douglas fir, western red cedar and western hemlock, this park provides the perfect blend of nature exploration and easygoing fun for visitors of all ages.
Easy Trails And Fascinating Wildlife
Embark on the 3/4-mile Cascade Streamwatch Trail, a fully paved loop with educational displays. The trail's highlight? A unique underwater fish viewing chamber offering a glimpse into the aquatic life thriving beneath the river's surface. If you time your visit in the fall, you might witness the awe-inspiring salmon spawning season — a memory you and the kids won't ever forget!
The nearby Wetlands Trail, a 3/4-mile wood-planked accessible loop with two viewing platforms, takes you through verdant wetlands teeming with wildlife. Get to the trail by crossing the walking bridge over the river. In the spring, you may spot wildflowers like water lilies and Western skunk cabbage. For the more adventurous, the challenging Boulder Ridge Trail branches off, leading 4.7 miles up Huckleberry Mountain into the Salmon-Huckleberry Wilderness.
After Hiking Activities
Wildwood Recreation Area caters to family outings with picnic tables, restrooms, and ample parking. There's also fishing and swimming in the Salmon River. Take a break from the trails and visit the nearby Barlow Road Historical Marker for a history lesson with the kids. Walk near remnants of the Oregon Trail and learn about the region's rich past. Afterward, find a selection of family friendly restaurants on Mt. Hood to recap your adventures over delicious mountain fare.
Getting There
ADDRESS: 65670 US-26, Welches, OR 97067. Wildwood Recreation Site is located 39 miles east of Portland on Highway 26 near Welches, Oregon. View location on Google Maps.
FEES: Park passes are available for purchase online for printing at home, or onsite at the automated fee machine located next to the park’s entrance station. Credit cards only; no cash or checks.
Many species of amphibians, birds, butterflies and mammals can be found throughout Oregon's Mt. Hood Territory. You "otter" view wildlife from a safe distance. Use binoculars or a camera with zoom to view animals. This will help to protect you as well as them.
