Sandy beach
Cliff jumping
Hike-in Required
Sensitive Habitat

Certainly one of the most popular destinations along the Wilson River, the Footbridge Day Use Area has justified its popularity by offering something for everyone.  First and foremost, it is an ideal swimming hole, sun bathing beach, and cliff jumping location.  The beach and deep pool that are east of the footbridge are ideal spots for the kids, though the area can become quite crowded.  Alternately, the basalt chasm just south of the bridge is less frequented and offers equally calm waters.

Beyond the waters immediately adjacent to the footbridge (which is also a popular spot for anglers), the site also serves as a trailhead for the Wilson River Hiking Trail.  Head 1.4 miles up the trail to reach Wilson Falls and an additional 1.7 miles to make it all the way to the Tillamook Forestry Center.  You will also find plenty of uncrowded swimming holes on this route.  Or, if you're not quite up for the full-on hike, the 35-foot Bridge Creek Falls is just across Highway 6 only a few minutes away.

Oregon’s North Coast Forests



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Parking Pass

NW Forest Pass


Sandy beach. Cliff jumping. Nearby hiking trails.


Heavily used throughout summer.


Sensitive Habitat


Field Guide + Map


Please update the specification as follows: On May 13th, 2016, myself and another swimmer at the site used a weighted tape-measure and measured the height from the bridge, which some people jump from. At the railing, the bridge is 40 feet from the surface of the water. In summer, this would easily move towards 42 or 43 feet. Additionally, the cliffs on one side of the bridge are great for jumping. They look to be 25-30 feet, but there are different spots and options to jump. Therefore, I believe you should update the GREATEST HEIGHT spec to say 40 feet (unless that height refers to the river, which is likely 15-20 feet deep near/south of the bridge).
Got there 11am so had some nice quiet swimming time. There's a small set of rapids the young kids enjoyed going down on a tube. I love the clear water and seem very safe for swimming.
So much people, smoking, drinking, spraying sunscreen, that we left early. Beautiful place, but ruined by the people using it.
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