Missouri Bend Recreation Site (33 miles from Corvallis)

Bureau of Land Management day use area along Highway 34 by the Alsea River. No fee required. Traffic on the highway above the site distracts from the peace of the forest, but is less noticeable on the river.

Picnic area: Wooden tables are scattered through the forest along a short loop path.

Restroom: There is a vault toilet by the parking lot, but no running water.

Hiking: There is a short loop path through the forest, with access to the river at the end of the loop. A sturdy wooden staircase leads down to the rock-lined river.

Pets: Dogs need not be leashed, but should be under voice control.

Birding: Look and listen for forest birds, especially in the spring.

Getting there:

Missouri Bend is about 10 miles west of the small town of Alsea on Highway 34. Go west out of Corvallis toward Philomath on Hwy 20/OR-34. Just outside of Philomath turn left onto OR-34/Alsea Hwy. Continue on OR-34 about 20 miles, through Alsea. Look for a BLM sign and entrance to Missouri Bend on the left side of the highway about 10 miles past Alsea.