About Smith Rock State Park
Smith Rock State park covers over 650 acres and sits close to 3000 feet in elevation.
The high desert of Smith Rock State Park is the indigenous land of the descendants of the Confederated Tribes of Warm Springs. The Paiute, Wasco and Chinook peoples were seasonal inhabitants and the original stewards of this beautiful land. The rock consists of welded tuff, or compressed volcanic ash and basalt rock. On top of its natural beauty, Smith Rock State Park is known at the birthplace of sport rock climbing. In the 1980's, rock climbers began establishing some of the hardest climbing routes of the time. In 1986 “To Bolt or Not to Be” was the first 5.14 in the United States. There are now over 2,000 rock climbing routes, while offer miles of trails and several thousand climbs for any skill level. While climbing or hiking at Smith Rock State Park, you'll enjoy scenic views of deep river canyons and other natural elements unique to the region.
Directions
Smith Rock State Park is located just 3 miles east of highway 97 in the town of Terrebonne. A brown Smith Rock State Park sign and a yellow traffic light mark the turn east on to Smith Rock Way. After turning east, there are small signs for every turn.
- A $5 day use parking permit or a current state park camp
receipt available from the self service pay stations. - An Oregon State Parks Annual pass is $30, a two-year pass is $50, and both are available at the Welcome Center and online.
- Day-use visitor hours are from dawn to dusk.
- Dogs are allowed, on a leash at all times.
- Bring water bottles. There is water in back of the visitors center and at the bridge to fill water bottles.
- The park is open year-round.
Camping near Smith Rock State Park
- Bivouac Campground This is the campground at Smith Rock State Park. It is a Bivouac area; meaning that you walk in to where tents are allowed. No RV camping, RV parks, or car camping is allowed, so bring a tent and be prepared for the weather. Campfires are also not allowed on these campgrounds. Community cooking is available in the central cooking and picnic area near the parking lot, bathrooms, and sink areas. Space is available to campers on a first-come, first-served basis. Reservations are not accepted for these camping spots. The Bivy is generally is full spring and fall Friday through Sunday. Fees are $8 per person per night, and include the parking permit for the next day and the use of the showers. The fee station takes credit cards and exact cash only.
- Skull Hollow Campground, also called the Grasslands, is 8 miles northeast of Smith Rock. Skull Hollow Campground is a primitive campground, meaning no running water or other amenities, so pack out your trash and 2 pit toilets if you plan to stay here during your visit. Overnight guests can camp in your vehicle and have campfires, but will need to bring their own firewood. Skull Hollow Campground is generally open mid April through mid November. The sites are $10 per individual site and $20 for double size sites.
Driving times
Sisters – 50 minutes
Sunriver – 50 minutes
Redmond – 15 to 20 minutes
Terrebonne – 5 minutes
Seattle – 6 hours
Portland – 3 hours
Eugene – 2 3/4 hours
Wildlife
Smith Rock is home to many animals. Bald eagles and Golden eagles nest every year at Smith Rock State Park, and prairie falcons may be spotted as well. There are some seasonal closures to certain climbing walls to be aware of due to nesting. In the Crooked River, keep your eyes out for river otters, blue herons, ducks, deer and geese. Lizards and snakes are also common in the park. Rattlesnakes are common during the warmer months, but they are just as afraid of us and we are of them. If you see one, give it plenty of space.
Always practice leave no trace principals and please make sure you carry out all that you carry in.
Dogs and Pets
All dogs and pets are to be on a leash at all times and poop bags are required and are located at the trailheads.
Oregon State Parks Rules and Regulations
Complete lists of day use rules and regulations are located at the parking areas and trailheads.
