Nestucca River is in northwest Oregon about 32 miles north of Salem. It begins in Carlton and travels west to Beaver on US 101. The byway is 45 miles long and follows Meadow Lake Road, Nestucca Access Road, and Blaine Road. The roads are two-lane paved roads suitable for all vehicles; a small segment is unpaved. Eleven miles are officially designated a Back Country Byway. Nestucca River generally remains open year-round; snow and ice may occasionally close some portions.
Nestucca River Back Country Byway travels through Oregon’s old growth forest where Douglas firs reach heights of 200 feet and over 400 years old. It also cuts through the moss-covered canyon walls carved by the Nestucca River. The byway is kept company by the tumbling waters of this scenic river for most of its length. Wildflowers growing alongside the byway provide a diversity of colors throughout much of the year. Wildlife observers need to be on the lookout for elk and deer, which are common to the area. The byway traveler may also catch a glimpse of a bald eagle flying overhead.
There are four BLM operated recreation areas and one Siuslaw National Forest campground along the byway. Dovre Campground offers ten campsites with picnic tables and fire rings. Fan Creek Campground has 12 sites and Alder Glen has 11, each with picnic tables. Elk Bend is primarily a day use area but does offer four campsites. West of the Alder Glen recreation area, the byway enters Siuslaw National Forest. Here, visitors will find the 12-site Rocky Bend Campground. This is the only campground where drinking water is not available. The campgrounds are situated on the banks of Nestucca River and provide excellent places for fishing or swimming.