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    Smith Rock State Park

    4.9 (194 reviews)

    Smith Rock State Park Photos

    Recommended Reviews - Smith Rock State Park

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    View from the misery ridge trail
    Catherine P.

    Smith rock was an amazing morning hike and the best one from our visit to Bend. We woke up early to do Misery ridge trail. There was a lot of parking available but we still had to pay since we were out of town. All in all the trail took us 1 hour 54 min but we probably could have done it in a hour and a half since we took some pictures at the top. We took the right side of the trail since it was the way up misery ridge. It wasn't so bad since the sun was still behind the hill and so halfway up we were shaded. The incline is step and quite exhilarating due to being at the edge of the mountain the whole time. Once at the top we had a great view of the land. We even got higher by doing a Little Rock climbing. On the way down the other side, we saw the money face and walked along the river. There were a lot of gnats but thankfully no mosquitos. I saw two small black snakes on the riverside trail but thankfully no rattlesnakes. I am glad we went early because of the sun and heat against the mountain. It was also packed in the parking lot. There were also people rock climbing and you could see the chalk marks where they scaled the mountain.

    The steep climb on the Burma Road Loop (see AllTrails for route)
    Cheryl G.

    If you are an outdoor enthusiast, do not miss spending a day at Smith Rock State Park near Bend, Oregon. This hike has it all. Million dollar views, beautiful flowing river, high desert, snow capped mountains in the distance, big trees, wildlife, you name it! My fiancé and I took the Burma Road loop that I found on the AllTrails app. The app said it was going to be 7.6 miles but my Garmin clocked 8.8 miles. We did park a little bit away from what they had designated as the trailhead. We started at 10 AM on a morning in late July. We were keeping an eye on the weather because we know in the high desert. It can get hot! This specific morning was forecasted to be a little bit cooler than average. The heat was totally bearable for most of the hike, but that last mile was rough. Fortunately, we are experienced tigers, and we had more than enough water, food, and sunscreen with us. I saw a lot of people taking their dogs down into the trail during the heat of the day while we were leaving which is a very bad idea. The only way to get out of the park is a steep climb that is about a half mile long. In fact, that was the hardest part of the hike to me. The big climb actually happened towards the beginning of the hike, but since it was cooler, it was much more doable. This is also a popular rock climbing destination, but there weren't many climbers out, which I'm assuming was because of the heat of the summer. They did have several self aid stations with equipment in case of injuries. The park was excellently maintained, and they were compost toilets in a couple of places.

    Guillermo R.

    Worth the drive from Bend. I am not a mountain climber but if you are this is your spot. For the hiking enthusiasts this place has it all from great trails, bathrooms, parking and the fall colors are just spectacular. Loved seeing solo hikers to whole families and even a wedding party enjoying this park.

    Tony X.

    My friends and I only spent one full day at Smith Rock, but it was the highlight of our Oregon road trip. I'd personally love to go back. We did the Misery Ridge hike and got to see different parts of the park. The landscape is really unique, and it feels like what Mordor (in Lord of the Rings) would look like, if it were a real place. I'd love to go rock climbing or bouldering the next time I'm back!

    A river runs through it
    Renee N.

    While vacationing in Oregon last year, we had to visit this state park. A totally different atmosphere and this part of Oregon looks like back home in the desert. This is a climbing Mecca and offers thousands of climbs within the park. Many of these climbs are bolted. They also offer miles of hiking and biking trails. The canyons are deep and the Crooked River runs through them. Unfortunately, while we were visiting we could not hike the Misery Ridge trail to access the famed Monkey Face. The park was in the middle of constructing a new eight foot wide pedestrian bridge. We could not get across the river. There are also plans to build an actual visitors center which is needed since this park is heavily visited. Camping is open early spring through late fall. Camping is on a first come, first served basis. Lots of wildlife to be seen here such as golden eagles, prairie falcons, mule deer, river otter and beaver. This is a gorgeous park and so unique. We saw lots of climbers too. I am excited to return to hike someday. If you have a dog, they must be on leash at all times and remember to follow the principles and Leave No Trace.

    Taylor S.

    SO AMAZING! Beautiful views all around. Easy and strenuous hiking options. We had our lunch here at a picnic bench. Such a lovely lunch spot. Lots of dogs were in the park and there are dog waste bags available.

    Stesha C.

    Really lovely place to go for a hike. We did the misery trail and it was steep in places, but on a 65 degree sunny day, it was perfect. Such a great place to get outside and moving. A few others on the trails and some more climbing, but not very busy on a gorgeous Friday afternoon

    Winter B.

    If you are considering coming here do it!! My mom and I did the River trail to the mesa verde trail and ended by going down misery ridge. A lot of people were doing this hike but the opposite way we did it by going up misery ridge first. We kind of avoided the steep parts by doing it backwards which was a good decision. The hike was around 4 miles and took a little over 2 hours. Theres a ton of trails and routes though. Come early because its gets really hot and the parking lot gets crowded. Also you have to bring water on the trail since it's so dry. Such a stunning state park. There were a lot of families with young kids and dogs. My mom doesn't hike very much and is intimidated by challenging trails but she could do this one we just took it slow. Also the people at the welcome center (green/brown yurt) were soo friendly and extremely helpful so ask them if you aren't sure where to go or difficulty levels. Theres bathrooms and spots to fill up water along the way as well.

    Jason V.

    Rock climbing. Miles of hiking trails, of varying difficulties (Misery Ridge? Aptly named!). An incredible, easily accessible campsite. Swimming. Bird-watching. An unbeatable view. Gorgeous sunsets. Proximity to Bend and Sunriver. Is there a better outdoor adventure and exploration destination anywhere in the state of Oregon? If there is, I haven't heard of it. Whether you've come to Smith Rock for the hiking, rock climbing, camping, or just a day trip to take in the sights of the spectacular spectacle of this miracle of nature, you're in for something special. There are very few places in Oregon, the PNW, or anywhere else on Earth, that offer the quality, quantity and variety of world-class outdoor experiences that Smith Rock does, for next to nothing. Protect it, treasure it, and above all, enjoy it to the fullest extent of what it provides in outdoor activities and adventure opportunities. You will not regret or forget it.

    Jennifer L.

    Great place to bird watch, especially during nesting season. There are several trails to hike, and some of them are very strenuous. If you go in the summer, be prepared for constant direct sun and heed the warnings of bringing extra water. The only place we saw trees on the trails was on Wolf Tree. The initial decent is pretty steep, which means coming back up will be difficult. I saw a lot of people struggle with this. It was a beautiful place to spend the day.

    Smith rock
    Mia G.

    While staying in Bend, a group of 20-somethings ladies decided to visit Smith Rock and we all loved it. We stayed on the main trail along the water, which was very tranquil and pretty. We ended up turning back after a 1.5 miles as we were crunched on time, but could have done more. So if you are looking for a couple hour, mostly easy-level hike then this is it! There are some shady spots throughout the main trail which helped, but definitely bring a water bottle on a warm day. We did see some people also rock climbing and others heading up to the very top which also looked epic, but outside our wheel of outdoor adventure expertise haha. Also - parking was easy to find (and we went on a Saturday afternoon) as theres a good sized lot. A $5 pass is required which we purchased at a machine near the entrance. All in all, you won't be disappointed!

    Park map
    Nichole R.

    Incredible state park to visit with multiple hiking options. Found in the middle of farm land/residential area this pocket of mountains were a sight we were so thankful to see. We completed the Misery Ridge loop and while we found it was completely appropriately named it was also incredibly beautiful with breathtaking views at the top. My kids loved seeing all the climbers and now aspire to do some rock climbing themselves.

    Kim R.

    Finally got to complete Misery Ridge. If you deal with vertigo or have issues with heights, the going up and over from the bridge can be tough. My vertigo bit hard about 3/4 the way up...just from the turns within the stairs, pretty steep drops at times. Powered through though, and I'm so glad. This trail is so great, fab views literally every given moment. I especially loved the trail down over the back and around Monkey Face, just a spectacular sight. The wind was quite harsh while we were there, so we didn't get to hang out up top and explore as much as we'd like, must return! Just another amazing hike at Smith Rock.

    Large natural cracks looking over Crooked River.

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    Smith Rock State Park Reviews in Other Languages

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    Review Highlights - Smith Rock State Park

    The Rim Trail is my favorite as you don't have to go too far to see Crooked River at the bottom of the canyon.

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    Clear Lake - Drinks and fishing stuff

    Clear Lake

    4.5(12 reviews)
    20.3 mi

    Here is my review of clear lake for row boat use!…read more We got here at 930 am. Found the pay box at the entrance $9, no cash. There is an option to pay at the bottom which we should have done because they take the national park passes there (see picture). We were able to find parking in the main lot and there were a few people there. We weren't sure how the process of renting the boats or availability of life jackets. There is a shop that sells food, snacks, drinks, ice cream , and desserts. They also have a selection of fishing items, shirts, jackets. We paid for the boat - $60 for the large boat all day. The life jackets were plentiful and available. My husband rowed most of the time because I am not a good rower. We made it from the dock to the start of the river that you can't go past which is good since you could hear the rapids. The way to the left was a lot calmer and clear. We had a blast out on the lake. You could see down near the shallows but not in the middle of the lake. Make sure to bring sunscreen because there isn't much shade. The facilities are great!! Two bathrooms in the shop. Large tables to sit and enjoy a hot cooked meal or ice cream. I am so glad we were able to make a morning on the lake super easy and stress free! Next time I'm thinking of renting a kayak or a stand up paddle board. That would be fun! If you are in the area make sure to stop by early. As we were leaving, the parking lot was filled up so make sure to get there early! I hope my review and pictures help you plan for a successful visit to Clear Lake!

    A beautiful setting for the perfect romantic getaway or family weekend escape. The cabins are…read morecozy with gas stoves and heaters and the boat rentals are very affordable is you want to connect with the water. We enjoyed a wonderful hike around the lake which took us through forests, lava fields, and springs with wooden bridges. The views were amazing!

    Photos
    Clear Lake - Coffee and tea bar

    Coffee and tea bar

    Clear Lake - Bathroom

    Bathroom

    Clear Lake - View of the boat dock

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    View of the boat dock

    Peter Skene Ogden State Scenic Overlook

    Peter Skene Ogden State Scenic Overlook

    4.5(30 reviews)
    3.5 mi

    After visiting Smith Rock State Park. we stumbled upon this wayside/overlook where you can enjoy…read morevertical basalt cliffs and secenic river canyon over the Crooked River in Oregon. This spot is on the boarder of the Deschutes and Jefferson counties. This stop is located just 9 miles North of Redmond or 26 miles from Bend on the US Route 97 where this a rest area and viewpoint with tons of parking. Facilities include restrooms, picnic tables and dramatic viewing of the Crooked River Canyon from the pathways or the bridge. For photographers this is an amazing place to get a shot of the Crooked River Canyon and surrounding areas. You can also walk across the historic Crooked River High Bridge just north of the park. Three historic bridges connect both sides of the canyon, unfortunately only one can be crossed today by pedestrians. Two of Oregon's tallest mountains- Mt Hood and Mt Jefferson are visible from the viewpoint on a clear day. Fun facts: the park was named in honor of Peter Skene Ogden who led the trapping parties of the Bay Company back in 1925. Worth a stop to take in the views and enjoy part of history!

    First of all, the restrooms here a the best rest stop restrooms I've been to, clean and like 10…read moreindividual stalls! Why don't other places do this? Anyways onto the real reason we stopped, we went here at the end of August. Made our way here after Smith Rock which was only about 10-15 minute drive, it was a beautiful sunny day, the view was breathtaking both ways. They had bungee jumping on the bridge when we went so that kinda blocked a bit of the view but was really cool to watch.

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    Peter Skene Ogden State Scenic Overlook
    Peter Skene Ogden State Scenic Overlook
    Peter Skene Ogden State Scenic Overlook

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    The Cove Palisades State Park

    The Cove Palisades State Park

    4.3(22 reviews)
    14.3 mi

    Well, this is a great place to come if you've got a boat. Huge lake with stunning scenery unlike…read morewhat you normally see at lakes. The ramps to launch your boat are reasonably spacious and they even have a kayak launch which I was excited to see. I have friends that catch fish here regularly, so I know it has some decent fishing too. We came to spin the kids around on a hot day. They had so much fun and getting in when the heat got out of hand was refreshing. I did t explore too much, but it didn't look like the campground had too much shade, on a hot day you may get not want to be there. Down by the docks they had a nice beach for swimmers and they had restrooms, which were just put toilets, not a fan. Other than that, I will definitely be back here.

    Wowza! The locals may be used to this stunning state park, but it was shockingly strange for us to…read morearrive after a long drive from Idaho. If coming from the Bend area, It quite literally is located over a cliff. There is a very, very narrow, and steep decent on a 2 Lane road that takes you down into the middle of a ravine. You drive along the perimeter of the ravine across a bridge and up and over the other side of the ravine until you follow the road to the campsite. Our GPS did not direct us properly to the campsite and the road was so narrow with no signs pointing us in the right direction. There was a moment of dread thinking we were going the wrong way when our GPS said we had arrived but we were in the middle of the road with no turn off. It was an act of faith to keep on going until the road finally delivered us at the campsite on the other side of the ravine. The campsite was well-maintained and had a lot of staff in the form of Park rangers to assist with check-in, selling firewood and ice, and maintenance. Each site had a paved driveway to park on. They have fire rings and picnic tables, with a decent amount of space between sites.

    Photos
    The Cove Palisades State Park - Memorial Day Parade

    Memorial Day Parade

    The Cove Palisades State Park - Butterflies everywhere

    Butterflies everywhere

    The Cove Palisades State Park - Campground

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    Campground

    Smith Rock State Park - parks - Updated May 2026

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