Copper Salmon Wilderness, Protected wilderness area in Rogue River-Siskiyou National Forest, Oregon.

Copper Salmon Wilderness is a protected area in the Southern Oregon Coast Range, part of the Rogue River–Siskiyou National Forest. It follows the North and South Forks of Elk River and the upper Middle Fork of Sixes River. Its steep forested valley holds a dark, slow river, tall conifers with reddish-brown trunks, a mossy yellow-green rock face on the left bank, gravel bars and fallen logs.

The area gained protection in 2009 through federal legislation recognizing its ecological value. This designation preserved one of the largest remaining tracts of old-growth forest at lower elevations in the nation.

The North Fork of Elk River sustains salmon and steelhead populations that matter to local anglers and communities. These fish have shaped how people connect with this forest for generations.

Visitors must follow Leave No Trace principles and cannot bring motorized equipment, vehicles, or bicycles inside. Plan your route carefully before entering since trails are minimal and navigation requires attention to natural landmarks.

The North Fork of the Elk River holds one of the healthiest runs of salmon, steelhead and cutthroat trout in the continental United States. The wilderness also shelters endangered marbled murrelets and northern spotted owls, birds that nest in the old-growth canopy.