Stunning Smith Rock State Park, Oregon: hiking trails + camping near Bend

When you think of Oregon, you probably imagine lush evergreen forests, dramatic coastline and a near-constant drizzle. But if you stick to those landscapes, you’ll completely miss out on the High Desert in Central Oregon. And believe me, you do not want to skip Smith Rock State Park, one of Oregon’s most beautiful destinations.

I’d ask you to imagine Smith Rock’s red cliffs, meandering river, steep trails and arid landscape—but thanks to these photos, you don’t have to overwork your pretending muscles. (If you’re like me, those muscles might be tired from a day of playing dinosaurs with your kids.)

Of course, photos barely do Smith Rock State Park justice. That’s why you need to go in person, of course!

In this post, I’ll cover all the things to do in this amazing Central Oregon destination:

• Smith Rock hikes
• Camping
• Rock climbing
• Weather and when to visit
• Other things to do in Terrebonne, OR
• And the logistical details you need to make the most of your trip to Smith Rock State Park

I can’t wait to share this magical place with you.

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Smith Rock State Park hikes

Smith Rock State Park became famous in the 1980s for its rock climbing. This incredible Central Oregon destination is home to equally impressive trails for both littles’ legs and those of us looking for a strenuous trek.

Misery Ridge Trail

Smith Rock SP’s most famous trail is Misery Ridge. As you can guess from its name, this 2-mile hike is strenuous, but don’t let that scare you away. The steep ascent takes you to the crag’s summit and offers truly incredible views.

Want to know what you’re up against? You can watch hikers tackle the steep incline of Misery Ridge from the parking areas.

If you do opt for this iconic Smith Rock hiking trail, keep an eye out for rock climbers. They climb many of these spires and cliff faces, including the famous Monkey Face. You will also want to bring your hiking poles.

Most folks create a loop with the Misery Ridge Trail and the River Trail. This common loop is less than 6 miles in length.

You can also create a loop from Misery Ridge to Summit Ridge Trail. This is a longer and less trafficked route of less than 8 miles.

River Trail

Smith Rock’s River Trail winds along the Crooked River with sheer cliffs rising up around you. This trail is easy, overall: Once you reach the river, it remains fairly flat. The exception: Toward the beginning of the hike, one short steep part—the Chute—will feel more challenging for littles, people with limited mobility and inexperienced hikers.

Catch the path down to the River Trail from the main parking area. Pass the primary viewpoint (just downhill from the restrooms), then watch the righthand side of the trail for a sign pointing you to the River Trail.

Other Smith Rock hiking trails

Hiking trails crisscross and loop around the state park. You can find one to meet your mood and needs, from a leisurely stroll to a more intense climb.

Check out the Homestead Trail and Canyon Trail.

If you want more ideas, check out my post on the best things to do in Central Oregon, including my favorite hikes.

Smith Rock State Park camping

Smith Rock State Park camping is limited. One walk-in campground, The Bivouac—nicknamed The Bivy—is off the road just before you pass the park’s welcome sign. You’ll need to walk a short ways with your gear to reach the campground.

Campers are allowed in tents only—park rules prohibit RVs or sleeping in your vehicle. Campsites are loosely defined. You’ll pretty much set up tent in the grass where you can find some space. There aren’t a lot of trees to offer privacy, but the incredible views of Smith Rock and the Crooked River more than make up for that.

These coveted Smith Rock camping spots are first come, first serve. That means they don’t take reservations. If you do find a place, you can buy a camping permit at the automated machine in the main visitor area. Camping here costs $8 per person per night.

Campfires are prohibited at Smith Rock because of its sensitive high desert ecosystem and the risk of wildfires. The site does provide restrooms, potable water and showers.

As of publication of this article, the Smith Rock camping site is not open because of COVID-19.

Smith Rock climbing

Back in the 1980s, intrepid athletes pretty much invented modern-day rock climbing here at Smith Rock. Now there are more than 2,000 routes on the park’s spires, rock faces and columns.

Monkey Face is Smith Rock’s most famous rock climbing spot. When seen in profile, it’s remarkable how much like a monkey it resembles!

I am definitely no rock climbing expert. If you feel confident to climb here on your own, you might want to get a copy of a Smith Rock climbing guide first.

I don’t have firsthand experience with guides, but you can check out some rock climbing guide services here.

Note that some routes, such as First Kiss, are closed from January through August to protect nesting birds.

If you’re looking to watch rock climbers, the Phoenix Buttress along the River Trail is prime viewing.

When to visit: Smith Rock weather + more

Smith Rock State Park is open year-round—and can be explored any time of year!

We love visiting Smith Rock when it’s warm and cold. Know that summer temperatures top 100 degrees so plan accordingly. You’ll want to bring a hat, more water than you think you’ll need and lots of sunscreen.

In the summer, the best weather at Smith Rock is in the morning, before the rocks heat up. You’ll enjoy hiking and exploring more if you’re not sweating buckets.

Winter weather at Smith Rock can vary widely. One January weekend, the kids and I took a day trip there and were walking around in short sleeves. The following weekend, we visited and found 6 inches of snow on the ground!

You can definitely enjoy Smith Rock State Park in cold weather, but you’ll need to take extra safety precautions. Hike with traction cleats on your shoes (such as Yak Trax) so you don’t slip on ice.

You’ll also need to use your best judgment for which Smith Rock hikes to tackle. Personally, I wouldn’t hike Misery Ridge Trail if conditions were icy. The River Trail doesn’t have steep dropoffs, though, so I’m ok with that hike in winter weather.

Other things to do in Terrebonne, Oregon

Smith Rock State Park is a 5-minute drive from Terrebonne, Oregon. Highway 97 runs right through the center of town; you’ll turn onto Smith Rock Way to get to the park.

Terrebonne, Oregon isn’t technically a town: It’s an unincorporated area of just over 1,000 residents. It’s livelier than you might think, though, because it acts as a hub for folks going to Smith Rock.

The area around Terrebonne is mostly ranch land. In fact, our favorite thing to do in Terrebonne (besides go to Smith Rock) is meeting the alpacas at Crescent Moon Ranch. Buy feed for $5 a bag and spoil those alpacas! (Pro tip from a mama who has been there: I ended up buying Max and Edie two bags each so they’d have enough to feed the alpacas at the end of the trail.)

Just outside of town off Highway 97, the Peter Skene Ogden viewpoint is another good thing to do in Terrebonne. Walk just a short way from the parking lot to see the Crooked River below.

A super-cool historic bridge crosses the river here, and you’ll catch an incredible view from this park. A safety warning: Keep your kids and dogs really, really close. People and animals have fallen hundreds of feet into the river here.

If you’re looking for Terrebonne, Oregon restaurants, I recommend stopping at the Terrebonne Depot. This restaurant is a converted railroad depot. The 100+ year old historic building was restored, and owners employed local artisans to add contemporary touches.

If you need coffee quickly, stop at Java Rock Espresso. This coffee stand is right off Highway 97 so it’s a quick stop. My kids like to get hot cocoa here after a day of exploring Smith Rock Oregon.

Must-know details to visit Smith Rock State Park, Oregon

Smith Rock SP is open for day use year-round. You’ll need to pay a $5 day use fee or display your annual Oregon State Parks pass.

You can park in a few different places within the park. An overflow lot will be on your lefthand side as you drive into the park. Parking spots line the road within the main area of the park. And before you get to the dead-end turnaround, you’ll see a grass field on the righthand side that’s been turned into a car lot.

Park rangers patrol the area frequently, and they do give out tickets for not having a park pass or for parking in undesignated areas.

Smith Rock State Park is very popular, especially in the summer and on weekends. Get here early to increase your chances of finding a parking spot within the park.

Like the rest of Oregon’s High Desert, Smith Rock State Park is home to wildlife. Watch for snakes, especially if you or your kids explore the hidey holes in some of the rock faces.

Are you mega excited to check out this Central Oregon gem? Save one of these pins for your future trip. Also, if you’re looking for even more attractions, check out the best things to do in Central Oregon in my guide to this unique area!