Cove Palisades State Park
A geological marvel with dramatic cliffs and the vast Lake Billy Chinook, perfect for water sports and scenic hikes.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Ideal for boating and water sports
Cove Palisades State Park
Best Time
Ideal for boating and water sports
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A geological marvel with dramatic cliffs and the vast Lake Billy Chinook, perfect for water sports and scenic hikes.
"Another Oregon State Park that is truly breathtaking. Looks like tons of great camping, boating, swimming!"
🚗 Drive-Thru Views
Even a drive-thru offers breathtaking canyon views and a glimpse of the vast lake.
🛶 Kayak Potential
Consider kayaking to explore the historical canyon and get a different perspective.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Lake Billy Chinook
Central Oregon
Vast reservoir with three arms, perfect for boating, water sports, and scenic drives.
Tam-a-láu Loop Trail
Lava Plateau Edge
Hike along a lava plateau for stunning vistas of the Crooked River and Lake Billy Chinook.
Dramatic Cliff Views
Various viewpoints
Witness 200-foot layered cliffs and unique geological formations surrounding the lake.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Best Time for Water Activities
Campground Amenities & Access
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🚗 Drive-Thru Views
Even a drive-thru offers breathtaking canyon views and a glimpse of the vast lake.
🛶 Kayak Potential
Consider kayaking to explore the historical canyon and get a different perspective.
☀️ Algae Awareness
Be aware of potential algae blooms in summer; water can be cloudy green.
🐾 Goose Poop Alert
Watch out for goose droppings along the shore and picnic areas.
Tips
from all over the internet
🚗 Drive-Thru Views
Even a drive-thru offers breathtaking canyon views and a glimpse of the vast lake.
🛶 Kayak Potential
Consider kayaking to explore the historical canyon and get a different perspective.
☀️ Algae Awareness
Be aware of potential algae blooms in summer; water can be cloudy green.
🐾 Goose Poop Alert
Watch out for goose droppings along the shore and picnic areas.
🏕️ Camping Convenience
Campgrounds have amenities; late arrivals can pay with cash or written card.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors consistently praise Cove Palisades State Park for its stunning geological formations, vast Lake Billy Chinook, and excellent opportunities for boating and water sports. Many return year after year, highlighting it as a favorite summer destination. However, some note the presence of algae in the lake and goose droppings along the shore as minor drawbacks.
"We did not stay here but did a drive thru around the whole thing. Campgrounds are dry and nothing fancy. But have hook ups in some spots. The lake is huge. It was very windy when we went and water was rough. Water was very green so not sure if that's anything to worry about. Very popular with Boaters. Beautiful canyon views."
Cheri Wright
"Amazing love it have been here the last 4 years will continue to go every year after my family loves it or friends love it it is our favorite thing to do every summer"
joanne lansdown
"We had never been to this gem.
It was just a drive through to check it out, but wow, what an amazing surprise.
Another Oregon State Park that is truly breathtaking.
Looks like tons of great camping, boating, swimming when the algae is gone, and just chilling.
We are definitely going back to camp.
Don't let this beauty not be visited.
It's 4 stars because until I camp."
Gary Currie
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Cove Palisades State Park is located in central Oregon, about 35 miles north of Bend and 10 miles south of Madras. It's accessible by car via well-maintained roads.
Yes, the park offers campgrounds with hookups, making it suitable for RVs. Trailer parking is also available.
The most common approach is via US-97, then taking local roads towards the park entrance. Check local maps for the most direct route from your starting point.
Madras is the closest town, located about 10 miles south, offering various services and supplies.
Yes, the park is a great destination for day trips, offering scenic drives and viewpoints accessible without camping.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Oregon State Parks typically have day-use fees. It's advisable to check the official Oregon State Parks website for current fees and operating hours before your visit.
Camping fees vary depending on the type of site and amenities. Information on pricing is usually available on the Oregon State Parks website or at the park entrance.
Yes, for late arrivals, payment options often include cash or a written-down card number.
Check the Oregon State Parks website for any available discounts, such as annual passes or senior rates.
State parks are generally open year-round, but specific facilities like campgrounds and visitor centers may have seasonal hours. Always verify current hours online.
🎫 🏞️ Onsite Experience
The Tam-a-láu Loop Trail is highly recommended for its stunning vistas. The Crooked River Rim Trail also offers breathtaking views.
Lake Billy Chinook is ideal for boating, water skiing, wakeboarding, swimming, and fishing.
Swimming is generally allowed, but be aware of potential algae blooms in the summer which can make the water cloudy green.
Absolutely! The dramatic cliffs, layered rock formations, and expansive lake views provide incredible photographic opportunities. 
Dogs are generally allowed in Oregon State Parks, but they must be kept on a leash. Always check specific park regulations.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
There are no restaurants within the park itself. It's recommended to bring your own food and drinks for picnics or prepare meals at your campsite.
The nearest dining options will be in the town of Madras, which offers various local eateries and cafes.
Yes, there are picnic areas available. Remember to pack out all your trash to keep the park clean.
Some campgrounds may have a small store selling ice and firewood, but it's best to bring most of your food supplies with you.
Madras offers typical American fare, with options ranging from casual diners to fast-food establishments.
📸 📸 Photography
Golden hours, shortly after sunrise and before sunset, offer the most dramatic lighting for capturing the cliffs and lake.
A wide-angle lens is great for capturing the expansive landscapes and cliffs. A telephoto lens can be useful for distant mountain views like Mt. Jefferson.
The viewpoints along the Tam-a-láu Loop Trail and the Crooked River Rim Trail offer spectacular panoramas.
While not a primary wildlife destination, you might spot birds of prey or smaller desert animals. Always maintain a safe distance.
The park's geology features 200-foot layered cliffs and columnar basalt, creating unique textures and patterns that are visually striking.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
While the park is beautiful, parents should be mindful of potential hazards like algae in the water and goose droppings in picnic areas. Keeping a close eye on children near the water and on trails is always recommended. Packing plenty of snacks and drinks is a good idea as dining options within the park are limited.
🏕️ Campers
Be prepared for potential wind, especially during certain times of the year, which can make the lake rough. For late arrivals, remember that payment can often be made with cash or a written-down card. Booking in advance is highly recommended, especially during peak summer season.
🎣 Anglers
While the water can sometimes appear cloudy green due to algae, it doesn't always deter the fish. It's advisable to check local fishing reports for the best times and techniques. Remember to have the appropriate Oregon fishing license.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Geological Wonders of Cove Palisades
The park is situated at the confluence of three rivers: the Crooked River, the Deschutes River, and the Metolius River, which feed into Lake Billy Chinook. This unique location has carved out the impressive canyon system that defines the park. The lake itself can reach depths of over 1,000 feet in certain areas, adding to the dramatic topography.
+1Visitors can explore these geological wonders through hiking trails that wind along the plateau edges, offering panoramic views of the canyon and the lake. The Tam-a-láu Loop Trail is particularly renowned for showcasing these magnificent vistas.
Water Recreation on Lake Billy Chinook
During the summer months, the water temperature is often warm, making it ideal for swimming and other aquatic activities. However, visitors should be aware that algae blooms can occur, sometimes leading to cloudy green water. Despite this, the sheer size of the lake provides ample space for everyone to enjoy their chosen activity.
For those without their own watercraft, exploring the lake by boat is a must-do. A boat trip from one end to the other can take approximately an hour, offering a full immersion into the park's scenic beauty. Kayaking is also a fantastic way to explore the quieter coves and historical aspects of the canyon.
Hiking and Scenic Trails
Another notable trail is the Crooked River Rim Trail, which starts near the campground and leads to a breathtaking viewpoint. This trail offers unexpected cascading cliff views that remind visitors of Oregon's spectacular scenery.
While some trails are more challenging, even a simple drive-thru can offer glimpses of the park's dramatic topography. For those looking for a more extensive exploration, the park offers opportunities for longer hikes, with some covering up to 7 miles.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit