Accident Overview
A pilot conducted an off-airport landing on a rough and uneven gravel-covered site adjacent to a river. The airplane was a tailwheel-equipped type. Prior to landing, the pilot performed multiple overflights at different altitudes to inspect the intended landing area.
Sequence of Events
During the landing rollout, the right wing of the airplane struck tree branches. This contact caused the aircraft to enter a ground-loop. The ground-loop resulted in substantial damage to the wings, empennage, and left horizontal stabilizer.
Pilot's Report
The pilot reported that there were no preaccident mechanical anomalies with the airplane that would have precluded normal operation. In the recommendation section of the NTSB Accident/Incident Reporting Form 6120.1, the pilot stated that the accident may have been prevented if he would have increased his familiarization of off-airport operations or selected a more suitable landing site.