Oregon Creek Day Use Area

If you find the Highway 49 Crossing swimming hole a bit too crowded or are simply looking for a quieter scene, head on down the Golden Chain Highway another few miles to the Oregon Creek Day Use Area. Here, a lesser known swimming hole awaits.

The Day Use Area provides access to where the Oregon Creek tributary flows into the emerald green waters of the Middle Yuba River. Both sides of the creek hold shaded, sandy beaches, and slightly upriver you'll find small cascades and inviting granite slabs that are perfect for lounging a few summer hours away.

The Oregon Creek Covered Bridge adds to the setting and provides walking access between the parking area directly off Highway 49 and the main day use area parking lot. Driving to the main day use area, which is set up with picnic table and restrooms, may be a better option for families with small children or those hauling a lot of gear. With the covered bridge closed to vehicles, accessing the main day use area by car requires driving the long way around via Ridge Road to connect with Alleghany Ridge Road (this alternative route is detailed in the driving directions).