Central Oregon's White River Falls plunges 90' over a basalt shelf, testament to the violent geological forces that carved the region millions of years ago. An overlook is a short walk from the parking area.
A steep, rough .7-mile trail takes hikers deep into the canyon to the historic hydroelectric power plant at the base of the falls, then on to Lower White River Falls. One of the first hydroelectric power plants in Oregon, it supplied electricity to Wasco and Sherman Counties from 1910-1963.
The park is open year-round, though the main parking lot and flush restroom close during winter. Spring is the best time to see the waterfall's thunderous flow; by fall it slows to a few trickles.
Caution Swimming is not recommended due to deadly and unpredictable river currents.
Access key maps for this location, created and maintained by Oregon Parks & Recreation Department staff for the public.
Yes, the park is open year-round. But, during the winter the gate is closed and parking is at the main gate for walk-in only access. The overlook to the falls is a short walk in.
Portable toilets are provided through the winter.
The main parking lot and flush restrooms close Nov. 1 – mid-March.
Stay safe in the summer heat. Carry plenty of water - 20 ounces per person, per hour ---if you plan to hike to the bottom of the canyon in the hot sun. There is very limited shade in the park, and the rock canyon walls radiate more heat, which can cause heat-related illnesses. Potable water is available near the flush restroom building (summer months only).
Standing on or climbing on the edge of the river canyon cliffs & historic structures can be deadly, and is not permitted. Swimming is not recommended due to deadly and unpredictable river currents. Have a safety plan in advance. It may take a long time for help to arrive if you need it.
A map of where to locate White River Falls State Park is located here.
More information and photos of White River Falls State Park can be found at: WyEastBlog.
No fee is required at this time.
Not far at all. From the main entrance and parking lot, it is just a short walk over flat graveled paths.
The hike to the bottom of the falls is for advanced hikers. The trail to the bottome is short, steep, and rocky with about a 150 foot elevation change.
The park has graveled parking lots and paths.
White River Falls State Park is day use only. Camping is not allowed. There is camping nearby along the Deschutes River, at Cottonwood Canyon State Park, or at the Deschutes River State Recreation Area.
Kayaking is NOT PERMITTED at the White River Falls State Park. Kayakers can access the Deschutes River. A boater pass is required on the Deschutes River.
Swimming is not recommended due to dangerous river currents.
We do not recommend any vehicles over 24 feet enter the park.
The parking lot is small with limited turnaround space.
Commercial photography/filming is not permitted at this park. We do not issue Special Use Permits for these activities. It's not a very safe park due to the deadly and unpredictable river currents, rugged terrain, deteriorating structures, and remote location.
Yes, but a Special Use Permit is required if you are:
This list does not cover all the activities that would require a permit. See the Non-Traditional Activity Special Use Permit Application or call the park for more details.
Important Info: This park can be a very busy little park, with limited parking, amenities, and staffing, therefore can not accompdate groups over 50 people. And we do not issue filming or commercial photography permits at this park. It's not a very safe park due to the deadly and unpredictable river currents, rugged terrain, deteriorating structures, and remote location. Events will only be permitted from dawn until dusk.
Once known as Tygh Valley State Wayside, Pacific Power and Light Company gave the state 255.13 acres in 1969. In 1970, the state received a patent on 40 acres formerly held by the Bureau of Land Management. In 1978, a land exchanged with a private property owner completed the park. Pacific Power and Light Company acquired the White River Falls area for hydroelectric generation in 1910 and produced electricity here to 1963.