About Smith Rock State Park

Smith Rock State Park

Recognition Programs

If you enjoy scenic views of deep river canyons or rock climbing, Smith Rock State Park is the place for you.

The majesty of Smith Rock State Park is unique, even for the high desert of Oregon. The park covers over 650 acres and hovers around 3000 feet in elevation. The major rock faces are welded tuff, or compressed volcanic ash formed 30 million years ago.

There are several thousand climbs in the park. More than a thousand are bolted routes. The towering 350-foot spire of Monkey Face is an icon.

The park also offers miles of hiking and mountain biking trails. Along your trip through the canyon, you might see golden eagles, prairie falcons, mule deer, river otter and beaver. 

Due to the uniqueness and fragile aspect of the park, park rangers enforce the animal leash law and strongly encourage all park users to stay on trails. 

Camping info 

  •  Walk-in bivouac area for tents available March – November (No reservations) 

  •  RV camping, sleeping in vehicles and open fires are not allowed  

Know Before You Go:

  • Be mindful that park services and staffing may be limited, so show your appreciation to staff, abide by park rules and take care to leave spaces clean.

  • Parking can be challenging, especially during the peak season and weekends. Beat the crowds and visit Smith Rock on a weekday.

  • Some climbing areas are closed or have limited access from about Jan. 15 to Aug. 1 to protect golden eagle and falcon nesting areas. Drones are also not allowed during this period. Look for signs at the park showing the closed climbing routes or visit the seasonal closure page.

  • Due to the uniqueness and fragile aspect of the park, park rangers enforce the animal leash law and ask all park users to stay on trails.

Recognition Programs

Reviews & Ratings

TripAdvisor Traveler Rating: 4.9/5 TripAdvisor Traveler Rating based on 1148 reviews
  • TripAdvisor Rating
    January 13, 2026
    GlobalFlavorJourneys

    An Oregon must do!

    Whether you are there to hike, camp or just enjoy the view. This has something for everyone. The hikes can be intense but worth it! There is a day use parking pass $10-13 depending on residency. Don't skip this step. There is a yurt onsite for questions and guides. Take advantage of the staff knowledge - that is why they are there. This can get extremely crowded during nice weather. Go early.

  • TripAdvisor Rating
    December 17, 2025
    Diane N

    Breath taking

    Absolutely one of my most favorite places to gike in Oregon. The views are so spectacular. Definitely bring lots of water. I recommended starting early morning less visitors and the sunrise is again speechless

  • TripAdvisor Rating
    October 18, 2025
    118dionc

    A must see monolithe.

    First time hiker @Smith rock. Trails offered, need prepped daypacks, as Below the rim H2O and snacks recommended. Fall visit a good time. Strenuous. Fit humans only. Suburbia encroachment. Nasty road construction. Do GOGGLE map it for turn offs. Really gorgeous river and rocks.

  • TripAdvisor Rating
    October 6, 2025
    Anntravels2

    Lots of trails to choose from!!

    Smith Rocks was so beautiful! Lots of different trails of varying difficulty to explore. You can take your time with lots of places to rest along whichever trail you choose. We, as avid hikers in our 60’s, did 2 of the difficult hikes, we had a cool day in October to do them. We had plenty of water. I can see during the summer it being even more difficult with the temps but it in October it was perfect. Watching the rock climbers was awesome inspiring too.

  • TripAdvisor Rating
    September 18, 2025
    Venture66972710543

    One of my favorite hiking spots!

    Having lived in Oregon my whole life, I've been to Smith Rock a handful of times. Each time, I have absolutely loved my experience there. It's an iconic view of Central Oregon and the Cascades, with plenty of hiking, picnic areas, and rock climbing to enjoy. The trail along the river is gorgeous and easy, great for a stroll and I've never seen it too busy. My favorite trail is called Misery Ridge, and takes you up to one of the highest points before ending in a loop around the river. You get a great view of everything, and the rock climbers on Monkey Face love the attention. Plus, emergency rescue crews are quick and very professional if there's an accident. I've seen a few accidents, which are always handled incredibly well.

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