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Silver Falls
State Park

Near Salem, Oregon, United States
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Park Overview

People call it the “crown jewel” of the Oregon State Parks system, and once you visit, you know why. Silver Falls State Park is the kind of standout scenic treasure that puts Oregon firmly onto the national—and international—stage. Its beauty, boundless recreational opportunities and historic presence keep it there.

Beachie Creek Fire recovery (September 2021 Update)

Waterfalls

Where else can you walk behind a waterfall? Check out the famous South Falls and see what a 177-foot curtain of water looks like from behind. It’s part of the Trail of Ten Falls, a spectacular, nationally recognized hiking trail that weaves through a dense forested landscape. The trail passes a series of breathtaking waterfalls along a rocky canyon, and descends to a winding creek at the forest floor. This 7.2 mile loop is considered to be a moderate hike, with an overall elevation change of 800 feet.  Several connecting trails with separate access points make shorter routes. For everyone’s safety— absolutely no pets allowed on the Canyon Trail.  Pets on leash are allowed on all other trails. New Trail: The North Rim Trail opened in July 2023. The one-mile trail is highly accessible with a width of 6 or more feet of compacted surface. The trail includes a viewpoint of the North Falls. Visitors can access the trail from the new North Canyon Trailhead and day-use area and the North Falls Trailhead and parking area.

Boots, bikes, paws, hooves

The park offers more than 35 miles of backcountry trails for mountain biking, hiking or horseback riding (see guided ride info below).  Bears and cougars live in the more remote park areas.

Daytime activities

The South Falls day-use area has spacious lawns, barbecue stands, picnic shelters, tables, a playground, horseshoe pits, an off-leash area for dogs, and a charming creek.  Ever since the opening day in 1933, visitors have been using these grounds for potlucks, family reunions and weddings.

New North Canyon day-use area has picnic tables, ADA-accessible restroom and 59 new parking spots, including three that are ADA accessible. The new area also provides access to the Nature Play Area for kids and the new accessible North Rim Trail with viewpoint of North Falls.

2023 construction project update

Work is underway to develop the North Gateway, which includes a new campground, visitor center, and now-completed North Canyon trailhead and parking, and other park improvements. General obligation bonds approved by the 2021 Oregon Legislature will fund the project. Learn more

Drive an electric vehicle?

EV charging stations are available at the South Falls Day-use parking area. Learn more

Overnight

The main campground has tent sites, RV spots and cabins. Bring your horse and stay in the horse campground. 

Campground

Book sites at oregonstateparks.reserveamerica.com. Reservations can be made 6 months in advance. Reservations are required for cabin stays.

  • 48 electrical sites with water (18+ sites open year-round)
  • 43 tent sites with water nearby (seasonal May–Oct.)
  • 14 cabins (7 pet friendly, open year-round)
  • Flush toilets and showers
  • Universal Access: Campsites B2 and B4, four cabins, and campground restrooms/showers are accessible.
  • Dump station

Howard Creek Horse Camp (seasonal May–September)

  • 5 primitive sites with horse stalls
  • Group site for 24 people and 12 horses

Smith Creek Village at Silver Falls

NEW: Accepting applications to operate Smith Creek Village, South Falls Cafe and the two ranches. Learn more at https://stateparks.oregon.gov/index.cfm?do=v.feature-article&articleId=349

Visit Smith Creek Village to learn about additional lodging options (including The Ranches), Big Leaf Cuisine, meeting venues or intimate gatherings. 

mdi-alert-outline Construction advisory
mdi-alert-outline General advisory
mdi-tent Open for camping Sep 1 – Nov 27 mdi-currency-usd
Day-use parking permit required
(purchase 1-day permit on site)
Day-use parking permit
(1-day purchased on-site)
Buy annual permit
mdi-cellphone Call for reservations: 800-452-5687
Call for info: 800-551-6949
Call park: (503)873-8681
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Amenities & Features

Questions

mdi-help-circle-outline General

What is the Trail of Ten Falls?

The Trail of Ten Falls is a designated National Recreation Trail, and lures photographers, hikers and waterfall enthusiasts alike.  Listed as a moderate hike with 800 feet elevation variation, sturdy shoes and a camera are encouraged. Each of the three trailheads leading into the canyon starts atop an over 100-foot waterfall. The descent into the pristine canyon begins within the canopy of towering Douglas Firs; as it meanders down to the undergrowth of ferns into the heart of the canyon, meeting up with the winding creek.  Whether you are up for the full seven mile trek or a shortened journey, the Trail of Ten Falls is an enjoyable and beautiful hike as you as explore from one falls to the next.

The full Trail of Ten Falls consists of Canyon Trail and Rim Trail, for a 7.2 mile loop. Parking for these trail heads are at South Falls and North Falls. Day-use parking passes may be purchased at both locations. Entry to the Canyon Trail can also be accessed via the Maple Ridge, Winter and North Group Twin Falls trail.
Pets and bicycles are not allowed on the Canyon Trail, or on trails that lead into the canyon: Maple Ridge, Winter and Twin Falls trail.

How many falls can we walk behind?

There are four waterfalls that you are able to walk behind. South Falls is the famous one, though Lower South, North and Middle North all have an amphitheater that provides enough room for a trail.  The water of Silver Creek flows over a thick basalt lava flow that is resting on softer, older rock. As the water loses elevation this softer layer beneath has eroded and created a natural pathway. 

When I get to your park... where is the closest restroom?

Restrooms with flush toilets are available next to the main parking lot at the South Falls day-use area; the North Falls and 214 trailheads are equipped with pit toilets.


There are no restrooms available on any of the trails in Silver Falls. Please use the restrooms provided at these parking lots.

The campground and cabin loop also have flush restrooms available to campers only. 

Oregon Parks are committed to clean facilities and public health; however, please remember facilities are only as clean as the last person who used them. 

I’d love to volunteer/become a host, who do I contact?

Volunteer opportunities are posted on the Oregon State Parks website at the following address:

https://stateparks.oregon.gov/index.cfm?do=get-involved.volunteer

Thank you for your interest and we look forward to hearing from you.

I have questions that are still unanswered… whom do I contact?

Our main office phone number is 503.873.8681 ex24.  We are open Monday- Friday 8:30am to 4:30pm. Though we can’t make reservations on this line, we can assist with most questions involving directions, camping, trails and general frequently asked questions.

What are the park hours?

Gates at South Falls & North Canyon Day Use will be locked before and after the following times:

November- January: 8:00am- 5:00pm
February: 8:00am- 6:00pm
March: 8:00am- 8:00pm
April- August: 7:00am- 9:00pm
September: 7:00am- 8:00pm
October: 8:00am- 7:00pm

Note: the Park Administration office is open Monday through Friday 8:30am - 4:30pm.

Is there cell phone service?

Silver Falls State Park is a remote area. Cell phone coverage is limited.  AT&T and Verizon customers will have better reception, though in case of emergency all cell phones will be able to access 911. 

Is there WiFi?

We have WiFi! The South Falls Lodge has free WiFi.

Where do I find out more about Friends of Silver Falls?

The Friends of Silver Falls has their own website. Feel free to check it out! http://www.friendsofsilverfalls.net/

What is Silver Falls State Park's Address?

20024 Silver Falls Hwy SE, Sublimity OR 97385

All 9,000 acres have the same address. For a trail map please visit https://stateparks.oregon.gov/index.cfm?do=main.loadFile&load=_siteFiles%2Fpublications%2FSilver_Falls_Map_WEB111239.pdf

I Lost/Found something, whom do I contact?

To report your missing item, please call the main office at 503-873-8681 ex 24. If the item has been turned in, we will mail your item back, at your expense.

If you found an item on the trails or elsewhere, please turn the item into a staff member. We will do our best to get the item back to the owner.

Are there Junior Ranger activities available at Silver Falls?

Junior Ranger programs are held in the campground from June-August and can be found on the park's event calendar.

Junior Ranger activity books are available for all ages and can be picked up at the park office, the South Falls Lodge, and from the park hosts in the campground.

When is the best time to see Fall colors?

Depending on the first frost, mid-October is usually the peak for Silver Falls State Park's brief-but-spectacular fall color season. The park is dominated by confers but has many areas with bigleaf and vine maple that will provide the best range of color.

mdi-help-circle-outline About Camping

How do I reserve a campsite/cabin/horse site/group facility?

All facilities within Silver Falls can be reserved by calling 1-800-452-5687 or going online. Visit the Make a Reservation page for more information.

Dispersed camping is not permitted at Silver Falls.

Do you sell ice and firewood on site?

Firewood is for sale in the campground for $7.00 per bundle and ice is available for $3.00 per bag. Please pay at the fee machine across from the wood shed.

Are there walk up/ first come first serve camp sites?

Silver Falls has a very popular, small campground, which is usually full on summer evenings and nice weekends throughout the rest of the year. Please check https://oregonstateparks.reserveamerica.com/camping/silver-falls-state-park/r/campgroundDetails.do?contractCode=OR&parkId=402235 for availability.

Do you have a place to stay other than camping?

Yes! For those less inclined to camp, please check out our Smith Creek Village.

Located in Silver Falls State Park, Smith Creek Village is the perfect retreat center to refresh, reflect, and recharge while surrounded by nature. This complex of buildings and open spaces can host weddings, conferences, church and youth group meetings, motivational workshops, reunions,or corporate trainings and brainstorming sessions.

Located in aptly-named Sublimity, Oregon, Smith Creek Village is the best of both worlds: close enough to the capital seat of Salem, the Portland International Airport, and Interstate 5 to make it readily accessible, yet secluded enough to allow for focused discussions, intimate ceremonies, and outdoor recreation. Guests can enjoy more than twenty-five miles of lush hiking and jogging trails, glimpses of wildlife, and the thrill of passing behind cascading waterfalls of mountain-fed streams.

For pricing and general questions please contact their staff directly at 503.894.7533.

mdi-help-circle-outline What's Allowed

Can I fly a drone?

Silver Falls State Park allows drone use without a permit at the Willamette Valley Viewpoint; this location does not have a view of waterfalls.

All other locations are prohibited to preserve public safety and sensitive habitat.

mdi-help-circle-outline Animals

What trails/areas of the park are pet friendly?

Silver Falls State Park welcomes visitors and their pets to most areas of the park. However; for the safety of you and other hikers, pets are not allowed on the Canyon Trail or on the connecting trails of Winter Trail, Maple Ridge Trail and Twin Falls Trail.

Throughout other areas of the park pets are required to be on a leash and of no more than six feet in length. A pet exercise/off leash area is located in South Falls Day Use Area for pets to run while under voice control.

Upper North Falls is a pet friendly waterfall! The short trail leads to the base of the 65 foot cascade where on leash your pet can swim and lap up the crystal clear water of Silver Creek. South Falls can be viewed with a pet, though the trail to walk inbehind is not accessible.

For the equestrian users, dog owners, mountain bikers and outdoor enthusiasts, more than 35 miles of multi-use backcountry trails spread over the 9,000 acres offer a great escape. Surrounded by Douglas-fir, western hemlock, Oregon grape, salal, sword fern and the remnants of old growth forest, the trails of Rackett Ridge, Perimeter and Buck Mountain loop provide remarkable scenery with a variety of plant and animal life.  Columbia black-tail deer, black bears, coyotes and cougars thrive in the lush, temperate rainforest and can be seen within these remote park areas.

If you have any questions about which trails will accommodate pets, please check with park staff.

What kind of wildlife should we watch out for?

Silver Falls is home to many species of wildlife, including black bears and cougars. If you come across an animal, do not approach it. Please report any sighting to the first available park ranger.

 

Visitors camping at Silver Falls should secure all food to minimize conflicts with wildlife, including skunks, raccoons, and birds such as Steller's jays and ravens.

What kind of fishing is available?

Fishing is available in Silver Creek. Parties must be licensed through Oregon Department of Fish and Wildlife and are encouraged to stay on trail.  For specific fishing regulations, please visit http://www.dfw.state.or.us/

Do you have horse rentals?

Silver Falls does not currently offer horse rentals.

You may bring your own horses and enjoy the equestrian trails.

mdi-help-circle-outline Day use/Special Events

Can you tell me more about the South Falls Day Use Area?

The South Falls Day Use Area has spacious lawns, BBQ stands, picnic shelters or tables, playground, swimming area, horse shoe pits, pet off-leash area, and the charming creek Silver Falls is famous for. Ever since the opening day in 1933; visitors have been using these grounds for potlucks, family reunions and weddings, all within a short walk to view the famous 177 foot South Falls. 
Also located within South Falls Day Use is the Historic South Falls lodge; on rainy or snowy days there will be a fire to warm up next to and a café for warm food & snacks (ice cream too!) Friendly volunteers welcome questions about park history, flora, fauna and are happy to recommend specific trails. The nearby Friends of Silver Falls Nature Store has nature-based merchandise and local artisan crafts.

What pass will work as a day-use parking permit?

The day-use parking permit for Silver Falls is $5. This fee may be purchased at many of our trailheads. Your campground pass or extra vehicle pass doubles as a day-use parking permit. 

While each payment machine operates differently, none will give change. Please come with exact change or a Visa, AMEX, or Mastercard. Fee machines are found at the South Falls Day-use, North Falls Trailhead North Canyon day-use area, and campground registration booth.

Annual and biannual passes are available for purchase online at StateParks.Oregon.gov. at the park office, and at the Friends of Silver Falls Nature Store (located in the Historic Silver Falls District).

Northwest Forest Passes, National Park and America the Beautiful permits are not valid permits for State Parks. Only passes issued by Oregon Parks & Recreational Department are valid as a day-use parking permit.
 

When is the South Falls Lodge and Cafe open?

The current hours for the South Falls Lodge Cafe are 10 am - 6 pm daily.

What type of food does the café sell?

Visit the South Falls Cafe website to see their menu:

https://southfallscafe.square.site/menu

Do you have a gift shop?

Yes! Our Nature Store is run by wonderful volunteers!

The Friends of Silver Falls Nature Store hours are as follows:


10 am - 6 pm Daily

 

 

For specific questions about the Friends of Silver Falls Nature Store please call 503.873.3495 or go to their website http://www.friendsofsilverfalls.net/

How can I reserve a school field trip?

Guided school field trips can be reserved by filling out the form here. Please note that field trips fill up quickly and a guided field trip may not be available for your desired date; self-guided activities are also available.

 

How do we get a tour of the group facilities?

North Falls Meeting Hall and the group camp area are currently closed due to construction. The Youth Camp is occupied by outdoor school groups and is unavailable for public rental at this time.

For questions or to request a tour of Smith Creek Village, including the Ranches, please call 503.894.7533.

For more questions, review our statewide FAQ

History

Silver Falls State Park opened July 23, 1933. But its history began long before.

Earliest Inhabitants

The Kalapuya and Molalla, whose ancestors came to the Willamette Valley about 14,000 years ago, were the native people in the Silver Falls area when settlers arrived as early as 1812. Indigenous people numbered about 15,000 in the Willamette Valley prior to settlement, but populations began to decline with the introduction of foreign diseases, for which they had no immunity. By the early 1840s, the indigenous population dropped to about 600, and newcomers were arriving in large numbers.  By 1850 hundreds of settlers lived in and around the Silver Falls Area before completely displacing all the native people in western Oregon when the government relocated them to reservations in 1854.

Homesteading

The first land homesteaded in Silver Falls was in 1883 next to South Falls. The next homestead comprised the area that includes South Falls Lodge, nearby buildings, and the park’s main parking lot. On this same land, the town of Silver Falls City was platted in 1888. Never more than several dozen families at a time resided in it. Still, it was the de facto capital of Silver Falls, an area with a peak of more than 200 residents, and it lasted for over 40 years. In its time, it had three general stores, an eight-room hotel, church, dance hall, tavern, granary, blacksmith shop, houses with barns and other outbuildings, and several sawmills. A one-room school was located 1 1/2 miles south.

Building a Park

The Great Depression struck in 1929, and Oregon’s most important industry—timber— tanked. The whole state's economy, and Silver Falls along with it, was devastated. U.S. government programs for mitigating the effects of the depression also made the park the great place it is today. One program, the Civilian Conservation Corps, put young unemployed men to work constructing buildings, trails, bridges, retaining walls, and other park infrastructure—most of which are on the National Register of Historic Places.  Through the Silver Falls Recreational Demonstration Area—a federal land acquisition, development, and transfer program— more than 5,000 acres were added to the park by 1948.

“Founding Fathers”

Two people stand out in the history of the park. June Drake, a Silverton photographer, conducted a long, unrelenting campaign to have the waterfalls and their surrounding area enclosed in a park. Samuel H. Boardman, the first superintendent of Oregon state parks, took a special interest in Silver Falls while expanding and developing the state’s park system. Drake earned the honorary title of the Father of Silver Falls State Park and Boardman the title of the Father of Oregon State Parks.

Silver Falls Today

Park staff, with support from volunteers, maintains a park of over 9,000 acres that annually attract well over a million visitors.

For more information please visit the Friends of Silver Falls website: friendsofsilverfalls.net

Brochures and Maps

mdi-file-pdf-box Common wildflowers of Silver Falls mdi-file-pdf-box Silver Falls State Park campground map mdi-file-pdf-box Silver Falls State Park map mdi-file-pdf-box Trail of Ten Falls and South Falls Day-use map

Photos