In the late 1890's, a masonry dam was started at the town of Niagara to develop power for a mill designed to make paper from straw. Construction of the dam was abandoned in 1912 after $100,000 had been spent. About this time, large numbers of Chinese workers were brought in to work on a rail line that was to be constructed over the Santiam Pass. This led to the belief by some that Chinese workers built the dam, misinformation that has kept the China Dam legend alive. This attractive and historic site was the first park developed and dedicated by the Marion County Park and Recreation Commission. Niagara Park attracts more travelers than any other Marion County park because of its history, natural scenic beauty, and convenient location.
Thirty-four acres of the park are owned by the State of Oregon and used for park purposes via a 1961 Land Use Permit.
Hours8:00 a.m. to Sunset
LocationForty miles from Salem on Santiam Highway, seven miles east of Mill City.
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