Located on Highway 22, three miles east of Mill City, and one mile east of Gates. This park was named in honor of John Minto, who explored the Santiam Canyon in 1873 in search of a way into eastern Oregon. It is a forested corridor between Highway 22 and the North Santiam River. Minto Creek runs through the park.
There is an extensive trail system along the Santiam River, plus developed picnic sites, comfort stations and more. Visitors enjoy birding, swimming, fishing, and many other water activities.
For Birders; Look for Harlequin Duck and Common Merganser. Typical forest species include; Winter Wren, Hermit Warbler, Pacific-slope Flycatcher and Swainson's Thrush.