Park Overview
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.
Beachie Creek Fire recovery (September 2021 Update)
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. New Trail:The North Rim Trail opened in July 2023. The one-mile trail is highly accessible with a width of 6 or more feet of compacted surface. The trail includes a viewpoint of the North Falls. Visitors can access the trail from the new North Canyon Trailhead and day-use area and the North Falls Trailhead and parking area.
Boots, bikes, paws, hooves
The park offers more than 35 miles of backcountry trails for mountain biking, hiking or horseback riding (see guided ride info below). 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-leash 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.
New North Canyon day-use areahas 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.
2023 construction project update
Work is underway to develop the North Gateway, which includes a new campground, visitor center, and now-completed North Canyon trailhead and parking, and other park improvements. General obligation bonds approved by the 2021 Oregon Legislature will fund the project. Learn more
Drive an electric vehicle?
EV charging stations are available at the South Falls Day-use parking area. Learn more
Overnight
The main campground has tent sites, RV spots and cabins. Bring your horse and stay in the horse campground.
Campground
Book sites atoregonstateparks.reserveamerica.com.Reservations can be made 6 months in advance. Reservations are required for cabin stays.
- 48 electrical sites with water (18+ sites open year-round)
- 43 tent sites with water nearby (seasonal May–Oct.)
- 14 cabins (7 pet friendly, open year-round)
- Flush toilets and showers
- Universal Access: Campsites B2 and B4, four cabins, and campground restrooms/showers are accessible.
- Dump station
Howard Creek Horse Camp (seasonal May–September)
- 5 primitive sites with horse stalls
- Group site for 24 people and 12 horses
Smith Creek Village at Silver Falls
NEW: Accepting applications to operate Smith Creek Village, South Falls Cafe and the two ranches. Learn more athttps://stateparks.oregon.gov/index.cfm?do=v.feature-article&articleId=349.
Visit Smith Creek Village to learn about additional lodging options (including The Ranches), Big Leaf Cuisine, meeting venues or intimate gatherings.
