People call it the “crown jewel” of the Oregon State Parks system, and once you visit, you know why.
Silver Falls State Park is the kind of standout scenic treasure that puts Oregon firmly onto the national—and international—stage. Its beauty, boundless recreational opportunities and historic presence keep it there.
Nestled in the foothills of Oregon’s Cascade Mountains, less than an hour east of the state capital of Salem, the sprawling 9,200-acre property is the largest state park in Oregon, and one of the most popular.
Waterfalls: Where else can you walk behind a waterfall? Check out the famous South Falls and see what a 177-foot curtain of water looks like from behind. It’s part of the Trail of Ten Falls, a spectacular, nationally recognized hiking trail that weaves through a dense forested landscape. The trail passes a series of breathtaking waterfalls along a rocky canyon, and descends to a winding creek at the forest floor. This 7.2 mile loop is considered to be a moderate hike, with an overall elevation change of 800 feet. Several connecting trails with separate access points make shorter routes. For everyone’s safety— absolutely no pets allowed on the Canyon Trail. Pets on leash are allowed on all other trails.
Boots, bikes, paws, hooves: The park offers more than 25 miles of backcountry trails for mountain biking, hiking or horseback riding. Bears and cougars live in the more remote park areas.
Daytime activities: The South Falls Day-use area has spacious lawns, barbecue stands, picnic shelters, tables, a playground, horseshoe pits, an off-lead area for dogs, and a charming creek. Ever since the opening day in 1933, visitors have been using these grounds for potlucks, family reunions and weddings. The new North Canyon Day-use area has picnic tables, ADA-accessible restroom and 59 new parking spots, including three that are ADA accessible. The new area also provides access to the Nature Play Area for kids and the new accessible North Rim Trail with viewpoint of North Falls.
Overnight: The main campground has tent sites, RV spots and cabins. Bring your horse and stay in the horse campground. Smith Creek Village at Silver Falls is a retreat center nestled in Silver Falls State Park with a restaurant, dining area, and lodging including 13 cabins and four group lodges as well as outdoor event space, historic buildings, meeting areas and a commercial kitchen. Nearby, the Davidson Ranch and Foothills Ranch are two historic lodges with commercial kitchens that also offer room for outdoor camping under the stars.
