California recreation
California recreation sites around the former locations of Copco and Iron Gate reservoirs were closed in 2023 by the Klamath River Renewal Corporation. For questions, contact the Klamath River Renewal Corporation (info@klamathrenewal.org, 530-670-0016) or Siskiyou County (lkdinfo@co.siskiyou.ca.us).
Upper Klamath River and rafting
Immediately downstream of the J.C. Boyle Dam site, the Klamath River enters a series of rugged, deep gorges and narrow canyons. In 1994, the section of river between the J.C. Boyle Powerhouse and California state line was designated a National Wild and Scenic River by the U.S. Secretary of the Interior. The Bureau of Land Management manages the river in cooperation with the State of Oregon. Water releases into the Klamath River are managed by Bureau of Reclamation and made from Keno Dam. To learn about whitewater rafting opportunities in Upper Klamath River please contact the Klamath Falls office of the BLM at 541-883-6916.
Fishing
Pacific Power has developed six public fishing access points on Ager-Beswick road along the south side of the Klamath River between the Oregon/California state line and the upstream end of the former Copco Reservoir. The sites provide public access through private ranch lands to the river. Each access point has a small parking area, comfort station and garbage can. Because of ongoing dam removal work, visitors are encouraged to check the California Fishing Regulations for updates before visiting the area.
Our parks and river access areas
In 2023, the Klamath River Renewal Corporation closed all recreation sites around Iron Gate and Copco reservoirs. For information on the dam removal project, including timelines and potential future recreational opportunities, please visit the Klamath River Renewal Corporation’s website.