Even though the US Forest Service rates this river wild, The Illinois River Hideaway is cuddled up along some wonderful deep pools, perfect for a relaxing swim. Sandy beaches give way to pea size gravel that is comfortable on bare feet. Just around the corner is a built in diving spot. Climb up the rock and you can jump or dive into a pool that is at least 40 feet deep Choose a height from 10 feet, 20 feet, 30 feet, or if you are real brave 45 feet.
Just past the diving hole is a mini waterfall, about three feet of fall that provides some entertainment. There are also some good quality lawn chairs that are easy to carry and set up in the sand. Bring Your Inner tubes and water toys. The river temperatures are refreshing and not so cold that you freeze about 60 to 70 degrees. This photo was taken August 25 2001 a hot summer day.
Technical River Stuff
The Wild Section of the Illinois River runs for 29 miles through forests and steep canyons. It has 150 rapids, 11 of which are Class IV and one of which has the most difficult rating for a rapid, Class V. It is one of the most inaccessible rivers in the lower 48 states, and help can be days away. This river should only be run by highly skilled and experienced rafter or boaters!
Due to its increasing popularity as a recreation destination, Forest Service managers have begun a permit system on the Illinois River to monitor its use. Permits are required year-round for ALL river trips on the Wild Section of the Illinois River between Briggs Creek and Nancy Creek. Permits are free of charge and available 24-hours a day at a self-issue display at the entrance to the Selma Market. The Selma Market is located at the intersection of Highway 199 and the Illinois River/Deer Creek Road in Selma, OR. Deposit your copy of the permit in the box at the Oak Flat take out to verify your safe return.
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.Water levels on the Illinois can rise as much as 10 feet overnight due to rain or melting snow. Be prepared to stay an extra day or two if necessary to wait out high flows. Typically, low flows requiring technical boating skills are below 1000 cubic feet per second (cfs), ideal boating levels are between 1500 and 2500 cfs.
River level information is monitored at the Kerby gauge and current readings can be obtained from the National Weather Service (541) 773-1067. The decision to launch should be made based on current river levels and the three-day weather forecast for rain or hot weather that could melt snow and raise river levels to dangerous heights.