WILD ROGUE
Welcome to Cow Creek Back Country Byway!
Get ready for a beautiful drive through history on the winding 45-mile Cow Creek Back Country Byway.
This rustic two-lane road is a great alternative to Interstate 5 and connects the towns of Riddle and
Glendale. Along the byway are signs about the history of the long forgotten town of West Fork, the
historic railroad, and gold mining. The Island Creek day-use area is a great stop to stretch your legs,
pan for gold, or have a creek-side picnic during your drive. Skull Creek Campground is a free firstcome, first served campground offering up 5 sites for weary travelers.
Know before you go
the railroad is still active and follows the original Oregon and California
Railroad Company grade built in 1869.
be respectful and do not trespass on private mining claims marked along the
creek. And stay alert on the blind corners as logging trucks are common.
Portions of the surrounding forest land were burned in the douglas
complex fire in 2013.
directions
From I-5 north, Exit 103 (Riddle) and head west on Riddle Bypass Road, eventually
turning into the Byway route. From I-5 south, Exit 80 (Glendale) and follow county road
263 to county road 39, and finally county road 164, which becomes the Cow Creek
Road.
Contact info
point of interest
777 NW Garden Valley Blvd.
Roseburg, OR 97471
541-440-4930
BLM_OR_RB_Mail@blm.gov
Spring is the best time to view wildflowers. In
summer, visitors can swim, fish, and pan for gold in
Cow Creek. In autumn, enjoy the glorious changing
foliage and the elusive salmon spawning.
