SILVER FALLS STATE PARK
Nestled in the lower elevation of Oregon's Cascade Mountains lies a temperate rain forest. It's here that the Trail of Ten Falls/Canyon Trail (770k) (Acrobat required to view map) can be found. The Canyon Trail and the falls descend to a forest floor covered with ferns, mosses, and wildflowers. You will also find stands of Douglas fir, hemlock, and cedar. While the park is visited by thousands every year, it's large enough for you to find quiet places to sit and watch for birds (download a bird list as a text file.)
The Canyon Trail is a nationally-recognized trail system that leads hikers along the banks of the north and south forks of Silver Creek. It takes you to 10 majestic waterfalls, ranging from the grand South Falls (177 feet), to the delicate Drake Falls (27 feet). Four of these falls have an amphitheater-like surrounding where you can walk behind the falls and feel the misty, crisp spray.
Please stay on marked trails and within designated day-use areas at all times. Respect any posted trail closure notices.
At Silver Falls, you will find unique group camping areas like the Old and New Ranch buildings, Silver Creek Youth Camp, North Falls trailer and tent areas, RV, cabin and tent camping in the overnight campground. Additional cabin rentals and complete group accommodations can be found at the Silver Falls Conference Center (rates listed below are for the campground cabins, not the conference center cabins). Where to Stay at Silver Falls State Park (3.8M pdf)
Guided daytime horse trail rides for people of all abilities are available from Memorial Day to Labor Day for $27 per person (covers a 1-hour ride and horse rental). For more information or to make special arrangements, call (503) 873-3890.
Special rules: Silver Falls State Park welcomes visitors and their pets. Please keep in mind these rules:
Control your pet: Keep your pet on a leash no longer than 6 feet at all times. Your pet must be able to respond to your commands, and you must be physically capable of restraining your pet. This rules protects you, other visitors, and park wildlife (Silver Falls is a designated state wildlife refuge). Refer to the Silver Falls State Park Trail Guide for information on pet restrictions on trails .
Be a good neighbor: Bag and remove all pet wastes. For your convenience, Mutt Mitt dispensers are located throughout the park. Make sure your pet is accompanied at all times, whether in the campground or picnic areas.
Going for a walk: The park has over 25 miles of trails for hiking (14 miles of horse trails). Because the canyon trail is narrow and bordered by sharp drop-offs in spots, bicycles, skate boards, in-line skates, and pets are not allowed on the canyon trail. If you have any questions about which trails will accommodate pets, check with park staff.
Located in the foothills of Oregon's Cascade Mountains, this 9,200-acre expanse is renowned for its scenic beauty and recreational opportunities. The area was initially inhabited by Native American tribes such as Kalapuya and Molalla before European settlers arrived.
In the late 19th century, it became a hub for logging operations due to abundant timber resources. However, over time concerns grew about preserving natural wonders like South Falls - one among ten waterfalls within park boundaries that cascade down from heights up to 177 feet.
The idea of transforming this region into a public recreation space began gaining traction during early decades of the twentieth century when June D. Drake started photographing these falls extensively; his images played an instrumental role in garnering support towards conservation efforts.
By mid-1920s local residents formed Silver Creek Recreation Demonstration Area Committee aiming at protecting their beloved landscape from further exploitation while promoting tourism simultaneously - they envisioned creating something akin to Niagara Falls or Yellowstone National Park on West Coast!
Their dream came closer reality after Samuel H Boardman (then State Parks engineer) visited site with other officials including Governor I.L Patterson who were all impressed enough propose purchasing land around four major cascades: North Middle Upper Lower Waterfalls respectively thus laying foundation what would eventually become largest state park within Beaver State's borders
Despite initial resistance some property owners reluctant sell lands government managed acquire necessary parcels through donations outright purchases between years1935-1948 During same period Civilian Conservation Corps built several facilities trails bridges picnic areas etc enhancing accessibility usability visitors
CampingPrimitiveyes
Electric Sitesyes
Water/Electric Sitesyes
Full Hookup Sitesyes
1. Silver Falls State Park Campground: This campground offers more than 50 campsites for tents and RVs, as well as cabins that can be rented year-round. Amenities include hot showers, flush toilets, firewood sales and an RV dump station.
2. Group Tent Camping Areas: There are two group tent camping areas available in the park - Old Ranch Meadow which accommodates up to 40 people and New Ranch which holds up to 100 campers.
3. Youth Camp Area: A separate area is designated specifically for youth groups with a capacity of around 250 individuals.
4. Horse Concessionaire's Equestrian Primitive Camping Site: For those who enjoy horseback riding or have their own horses they want to bring along on their trip there's also equestrian primitive camping site near South falls day-use area.
5. RV Sites With Electricity: The state park has about eight full-hookup sites where you can set your trailer or recreational vehicle (RV).
6. Cabins And Lodges: If you prefer something less rustic but still within nature ,Silver Fall Lodge & Conference Center provides cabin rentals. These come equipped with heating systems , electricity etc making it perfect choice during colder months.
7. Backcountry/Primitive Camping Options: Howard Creek Horse Camp located at west end of the park allows back country style camping experience.