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Oregon
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Oregon State Parks

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USA Parks
Oregon
Central & Eastern Region
Smith Rock State Park
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Smith Rock State Park © Rick Stasel
Smith Rock State Park © Michael Skourtes
Smith Rock State Park © Michael Skourtes
Smith Rock State Park © Michael Skourtes
Smith Rock State Park © Rick Stasel
Smith Rock State Park © Rick Stasel
Smith Rock State Park © Rick Stasel
Smith Rock State Park © Rick Stasel
Smith Rock State Park © Rick Stasel
Smith Rock State Park © Rick Stasel
Smith Rock State Park © Rick Stasel
Smith Rock State Park © Rick Stasel
Smith Rock State Park © Rick Stasel
Smith Rock State Park Smith Rock © Michael Skourtes
Smith Rock State Park © Rick Stasel
Smith Rock State Park © Rick Stasel
Smith Rock State Park © Rick Stasel
Smith Rock State Park © Rick Stasel
Smith Rock State Park © Rick Stasel
Smith Rock State Park © Rick Stasel
Smith Rock State Park © Rick Stasel
Smith Rock State Park Smith Rock © Michael Skourtes
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SMITH ROCK STATE PARK
If you enjoy scenic views of deep river canyons or rock climbing, Smith Rock State Park is the place for you. There are several thousand climbs in the park. More than a thousand are bolted routes. We also offer 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.

Note: Open fires prohibited at all times. There is a designated place for cooking with propane and white gas stoves. No cooking is allowed anywhere else in the park. Gas lanterns are also prohibited. Smoking is only allowed in vehicles.
History of the Area
Located in Central Oregon, this iconic natural landmark is known for its towering volcanic ash formations and the Crooked River that winds through it. The area was initially inhabited by Native American tribes such as Northern Paiute, Wasco-Wishram, Warm Springs and others who used to fish along the river.

The park's modern history began when John Smith discovered gold nearby in 1860s which led to a brief mining boom. However, his name became associated with these unique rock structures instead of any significant mineral find.

In early 20th century due to overgrazing from sheep herding operations caused severe erosion problems leading state officials towards conservation efforts. In 1960s after being acquired by State Land Board it officially opened up for public use offering recreational activities like hiking or climbing on more than thousand bolted routes making it one of America's premier destinations for climbers worldwide.

Over time additional land acquisitions expanded size significantly while various improvements were made including construction of footbridges across Crooked River allowing easier access into heartland areas previously inaccessible without crossing water body itself thus enhancing visitor experience greatly.
Camping
Smith Rock State Park in Oregon offers a variety of camping options for visitors. However, it's important to note that traditional tent and RV camping are not allowed within the park itself.

1. Bivouac Campground: This is the only campground located directly inside Smith Rock State Park. It provides walk-in tent sites only (no car or RV camping). The campsite includes picnic tables, restrooms with showers, communal cooking areas but no individual fire pits at each site due to safety reasons.

2. Skull Hollow Campground: Located about 8 miles from Smith Rock State Park, this campground has primitive campsites suitable for both tents and small trailers/RVs without hookups available.

3. Crooked River Ranch Cabins & RV Resort: About 15 minutes drive away from the state park offering cabins as well as full hookup spots for your trailer or motorhome along with amenities like swimming pool etc.

4. Cove Palisades Resort And Marina: They offer cabin rentals which include kitchenettes and bathrooms plus they have an on-site marina where you can rent boats.

5. Private Rentals: There are also numerous private rental properties including houses/cabins/condos/apartments around Terrebonne area close by to accommodate larger groups/families who prefer more comfort during their stay near smith rock state park.

6. Hotels/Motels: Redmond city nearby (~9miles) has several hotel/motel chains if one prefers staying indoors after day long hiking/climbing activities at smith rocks.



Picnicking
Smith Rock State Park offers picnic tables near the parking area, with stunning views of towering rock formations.
Trails
1. Misery Ridge Trail: This challenging 2.5-mile loop offers stunning views of the park and surrounding area, including Monkey Face rock formation.

2. Summit Loop Trail: A moderate to difficult trail that is approximately 7 miles long with a variety of terrain types from rocky paths to smooth trails.

3. River Trail: An easy-to-moderate level hike along Crooked River offering beautiful riverfront scenery over its four mile stretch.

4. Wolf Tree Trail: A short but steep one-mile trek leading hikers through juniper woodland areas and providing panoramic vistas across Smith Rock State Park.

5. The Homestead Hiking Pathway: It's an easier route spanning about three-quarters of a mile which takes you around the base perimeter of Picnic Lunch Wall climbing area.

6. Burma Road Trial: Known for being strenuous due it's uphill climb, this five-and-a-half-mile round trip provides breathtaking views at every turn.

7. Canyon Rim Route: Moderate difficulty level; spans roughly two:thirds-of-a- mile featuring scenic overlooks onto deep canyons below.

8. Scout Camp Loop: Approximately six miles in length taking visitors past some popular climbing spots like Asterisk Pass before looping back via Burma road.

9. Rimrock Springs Wildlife Art Interpretive Walk: Easy half:a- miler designed specifically as educational experience showcasing local wildlife art installations throughout.

10. High Desert Climbing Trails: These are not traditional hiking routes rather they provide access points for climbers heading towards various crags within state park.
Bicycling
Biking is permitted on park roads and the Canyon Trail, but not within hiking-only areas. Be cautious of pedestrians.

The 2-mile long River Trail offers a scenic biking route along Crooked River's banks - stay alert for hikers.

Mountain bikers can enjoy thrilling rides at Gray Butte trailhead located outside the main area; helmets are highly recommended here.

Remember that some trails have steep inclines or rocky terrain which may require advanced cycling skills to navigate safely.

Please respect all signage indicating where bikes aren't allowed in order to preserve natural habitats and ensure visitor safety.

Always yield right-of-way to equestrians as sudden movements could startle horses causing potential accidents.

Be aware that wildlife sightings are common so exercise caution when riding around dawn or dusk times especially.

Ensure your bike has proper lights if you plan on bicycling after sunset due its limited visibility conditions there.



Visitor Comments, Memories and Reviews
March 25 hiking,climbing,wildlife great views
park review stars; one to five !!!!
May 15 Fantastic Park by Nicole
park review stars; one to five Did a pretty advanced hike up Misery Ridge and then back along Mesa Verde and the River trail. Absolutely gorgeous scenery especially at the summit. Encountered a rabbit, and two lizards along the way as far as wildlife is concered. Loved every minute of the time spent there on our day hike! Park upkeep was fantastic.
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Directions
Smith Rock State Park is located in central Oregon, approximately 26 miles north of Bend. To reach the park from Bend, follow US-97 N for about 20 miles until you reach Terrebonne. Take exit 119 toward Redmond/Terrebonne and merge onto NE Evergreen Ave.

Continue on this road for about a mile before turning right onto NW Smith Rock Way. Follow this road as it curves to the left and becomes NE Wilcox Ave/NE Crooked River Dr.

After driving for another mile or so, turn left onto Couch Market Rd/NW Lower Bridge Way at the sign indicating "Smith Rock State Park." Continue straight on this road until you arrive at your destination - Smith Rock State Park Visitor Center parking lot.

Once parked, head towards the visitor center where you can obtain maps and information about hiking trails within the park. From there, explore various trails such as Misery Ridge Trail which offers stunning views of Monkey Face rock formation or try Canyon Rim Loop Trail that takes you along scenic viewpoints overlooking Crooked River Gorge.

Remember to bring water bottles and wear appropriate footwear while exploring these beautiful natural landscapes! Enjoy your visit to Smith Rock State Park in Oregon!

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Oregon State Parks

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