Mike Bauer Wayside

For those of us in Oregon who cherish the tranquility of a riverside setting and the thrill of a good catch, Mike Bauer Wayside is a well-loved secret. Nestled along the picturesque banks of the Alsea River near Tidewater, this spot offers a quintessential Pacific Northwest outdoor experience. It's more than just a turnout; it’s a gathering place for anglers, a refreshing swimming hole for families, and a peaceful retreat for anyone looking to unwind by the water.

Mike Bauer Wayside is particularly renowned among the local fishing community, celebrated as a prime location for steelhead, coho salmon, and cutthroat trout. Its accessibility and inviting features make it a go-to spot, especially during the colder months when the steelhead run is strong. One satisfied visitor perfectly captured its essence: "Perfect little spot along the Alsea River. There's plenty of rocks for crawdads to live under. Deep enough to actually swim around, there's a fishing dock to fish off of, and a bathroom, too." This speaks to the diverse appeal of the wayside, catering to both serious anglers and families seeking simple riverside fun.

What truly sets Mike Bauer Wayside apart is its welcoming atmosphere and thoughtful amenities for a wayside. Unlike large, bustling campgrounds, it maintains a more intimate and natural feel. The presence of a fishing dock, an accessible fishing platform, and even a warming hut with a wood stove (a rare find at such a spot!) highlights its dedication to making the outdoors enjoyable year-round. It's a testament to Oregon's commitment to providing accessible and high-quality recreational opportunities for its residents.

Mike Bauer Wayside is conveniently located on Highway 34, about 14 miles east of Waldport, near Tidewater, Oregon, specifically in the 97390 USA zip code area. This places it along the scenic Alsea River Corridor, within the Siuslaw National Forest's Coast Range. The wayside is easily accessible directly from Highway 34, with a large turnout providing ample parking for visitors.

The drive to Mike Bauer Wayside is part of its charm, winding along the beautiful Alsea River. While it’s a relatively straightforward drive from coastal communities and even parts of the Willamette Valley (like Corvallis), its location offers a distinct sense of escape from urban hustle. The accessibility of the site, particularly for anglers and those with mobility considerations, is a notable feature, with a handicapped access trail leading to a fishing platform. This thoughtful design ensures that more people can enjoy the natural beauty of the Alsea River. Its position along a well-traveled state highway means it's not entirely secluded, but its primary function as a day-use and fishing access point makes it a convenient and well-known local resource.

• Fishing Access: Mike Bauer Wayside provides excellent direct access to the Alsea River, renowned for its fishing opportunities. It features a dedicated fishing dock and an accessible fishing platform, making it suitable for anglers of varying abilities.

• Restroom Facilities: A vault toilet (bathroom) is available on-site for visitor convenience, ensuring a more comfortable experience during your day out.

• Potable Water: Potable water is available at the wayside, which is a great amenity for a day-use area and a significant convenience for visitors.

• Warming Hut with Wood Stove: A unique and highly appreciated feature, especially during colder months, is the presence of an enclosed warming hut equipped with a wood stove. This provides a cozy refuge for anglers and visitors, though guests are encouraged to bring their own wood.

• Picnic Areas: While dedicated picnic tables might not be universally present at every spot, there are flat rock ledges and areas ideal for sunbathing and picnicking right along the riverbank.

• Boat Launch: There is an unimproved boat ramp at Mike Bauer Wayside, facilitating non-motorized boating access to the Alsea River. This is a key feature for drift boaters and those with small watercraft.

• World-Class Steelhead and Salmon Fishing: Mike Bauer Wayside is a premier spot on the Alsea River for catching winter steelhead, coho salmon, and cutthroat trout. Anglers frequently visit, and it's a known location for strong runs, particularly for hatchery fish.

• Swimming Opportunities: The Alsea River at Mike Bauer Wayside is deep enough for swimming, with clear, refreshing water. The flat bedrock outcrops along the bank provide ideal spots for sunbathing and enjoying the river on warmer days.

• Crawdad Haven: As noted by a local reviewer, the presence of plenty of rocks makes it an excellent spot for crawdads, offering a fun activity for children and families.

• Accessible Features: The site includes an accessible fishing platform and trail, ensuring that individuals with disabilities can also enjoy the fishing and river environment.

• Year-Round Appeal: Thanks to the warming hut, Mike Bauer Wayside is a comfortable "go-to spot when it's cold out," making it suitable for winter steelhead fishing and enjoying the river in all seasons.

• Scenic Riverside Setting: Located in the beautiful Coast Range along the Alsea River, the wayside offers picturesque views of the water and surrounding forest, providing a tranquil and aesthetically pleasing environment.

• Multi-Use Access: While primarily a fishing access point, the wayside also serves as a launch point for non-motorized boating and a general day-use area for picnics and relaxation.

As Mike Bauer Wayside is a U.S. Forest Service facility within the Siuslaw National Forest, direct phone numbers for the specific wayside are not typically available. However, for general information, current conditions, or inquiries about the Alsea River Corridor, you can contact the relevant ranger district.

Address: Tidewater, OR 97390, USA (This general address covers the Alsea River Corridor area.)

For information, you can contact the Central Coast Ranger Station of the Siuslaw National Forest:

Phone: (541) 563-8400

It's always recommended to check the Siuslaw National Forest's official website or call their office for the most up-to-date information regarding conditions, any advisories, or fire restrictions before your visit.

For Oregon locals, Mike Bauer Wayside is a cherished and perfectly suited outdoor destination, embodying the ease and natural beauty that makes our state so unique. Its convenient location along Highway 34 near Tidewater makes it an accessible escape for a spontaneous day trip or a dedicated fishing excursion without the need for extensive travel plans. This "go-to spot" quality is invaluable for Oregonians who love to immerse themselves in nature without venturing too far from home.

What truly resonates with locals is the versatility of Mike Bauer Wayside. As an angler's paradise, especially for those pursuing steelhead and salmon, it offers direct river access, a fishing dock, and even an accessible platform, making it inclusive for all. But it’s not just for fishing; the clear, deep waters of the Alsea River at this spot are perfect for swimming, especially during the warmer months, and the abundance of crawdads provides endless entertainment for kids and adults alike. This multi-faceted appeal means it can cater to various family members and diverse interests, solidifying its status as a local favorite.

The presence of essential amenities like a restroom and potable water, combined with the unique feature of a warming hut with a wood stove, highlights a thoughtful approach to visitor comfort, especially appreciated during Oregon's cooler seasons. These practical features enhance the overall experience, making it comfortable even when temperatures drop. While it’s a popular spot, its appeal lies in its ability to offer a genuine, unpretentious connection with Oregon’s natural beauty. Mike Bauer Wayside represents the best of Oregon’s accessible outdoor resources: a tranquil riverside haven that invites locals to fish, swim, relax, and simply enjoy the serene charm of the Alsea River year-round. It’s a place that fosters repeat visits and becomes a treasured part of local outdoor traditions.

Mike Bauer Wayside

Tidewater, OR 97390, USA