North Santiam State Recreation Area

If you find yourself traveling Highway 22 about 26 miles east of Salem on the North Santiam River — stop.

While this state park plays happy host to campers, it's a perfect place to eat a picnic lunch and decompress. Free-range picnic tables dot the beautiful riverfront grass area, and the restroom facilities have flush toilets. What more do you need? Well, maybe a road-weary leg stretch on the 2.4 miles of old-growth forest trails.

North Santiam State Park is one of the finest steelhead fishing spots on the river. Drop your line from the shore, or hit the deep waters via the gravel boat launch. The primitive campground offers nine first-come, first-served walk-in/bike-in/boat-in campsites with picnic tables and grills.

There's an awesome reservable group picnic shelter with electricity, tables, and fire pit that accommodates 60. Stop by anytime to dip your toes in the cool river and soak up the silence. The day-use area is open year-round, and parking is free.