Access Site
OR
Iron Head
City: Port Orford, OR
County: Curry County
Type: Boat Ramp
Location: 42.78620000, -124.48083000
Air Temp: --
Location
Interactive access map
Loads when you reach this section.
Nearby Gauge Conditions
Sixes River at Sixes, OR
2.1 mi away
South Fork Coquille River at Powers, OR
22.1 mi away
SF Coquille River at Myrtle Point, OR
25.7 mi away
Real-time data from USGS Water Services
Whitewater Runs on Elk River
1 runDifficulty Classes
I Easy
II Novice
III Intermediate
IV Advanced
V Expert/Extreme
VI Unrunnable
Position relative to this access site:
Put-in at this location
This location is on the run
Take-out at this location
Downstream from here Upstream from here
Downstream from here Upstream from here
Whitewater data from
American Whitewater
About This Access Site
Iron Head provides boat ramp access to the Elk River, a substantial coastal waterway in southwestern Oregon. The Elk River is a large river (Stream Order 6) with significant flow averaging 2,758 cubic feet per second and an average velocity of 4.17 feet/second, making it suitable for motorized boats and experienced paddlers. With a 12 ft/mile average gradient and 175+ miles of length, this river offers varied paddling conditions depending on your launch point and direction of travel.
The access site is conveniently located near Port Orford in Curry County, with several camping options nearby including Edson Creek Camping and Sixes River Campground (both reservable). For planning purposes, note that the river's drainage area spans 1,533 square miles and drops 2,100 feet in elevation, so water conditions can vary seasonally. Contact the nearby Myrtlewood Field Office (541-756-0100) for current conditions, permits, or specific information about this access point.
Before launching, verify parking availability, trailer permit requirements, and access hours with local management. Given the river's strong flow and size, check current conditions and ensure your skill level matches water conditions, particularly during high-flow periods.
The access site is conveniently located near Port Orford in Curry County, with several camping options nearby including Edson Creek Camping and Sixes River Campground (both reservable). For planning purposes, note that the river's drainage area spans 1,533 square miles and drops 2,100 feet in elevation, so water conditions can vary seasonally. Contact the nearby Myrtlewood Field Office (541-756-0100) for current conditions, permits, or specific information about this access point.
Before launching, verify parking availability, trailer permit requirements, and access hours with local management. Given the river's strong flow and size, check current conditions and ensure your skill level matches water conditions, particularly during high-flow periods.
Nearby Recreation Areas
Myrtlewood Field Office
Located within
New River Area of Critical Environmental Concern
Located within