
Tumalo State Park Oregon
A serene campground and day-use park along the Deschutes River, offering hiking, swimming, and picnicking.

Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, easier parking

Tumalo State Park Oregon
Best Time
Fewer crowds, easier parking

Highlights
Must-see attractions
A serene campground and day-use park along the Deschutes River, offering hiking, swimming, and picnicking.
"A beautiful and peaceful park with great river access for relaxing and enjoying nature."

🚗 Beat the Parking Fee
Park across the bridge and walk in to save the $10 day-use fee .
🏄 SUP Fin Tip
Remove your SUP's large fin; the river can be shallow .

Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Deschutes River Trail
Along the Deschutes River
A scenic 1.4-mile trail through diverse forests with stunning river views and a viewpoint above rapids.

River Swimming & Floating
Deschutes River
Enjoy a refreshing dip or a leisurely float in the clear waters of the Deschutes River.

Picnic Areas
Throughout the park
Spacious and well-maintained picnic spots perfect for a relaxing meal amidst nature.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Beat the Crowds & Parking Fees
River Access & Activities
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🚗 Beat the Parking Fee
Park across the bridge and walk in to save the $10 day-use fee.
🏄 SUP Fin Tip
Remove your SUP's large fin; the river can be shallow.
Any tips for camping in (or near) Bend? We'll be travelling through Oregon this summer but I can't find a campsite anywhere close apart from Tumalo State Park.
🚶♀️ Explore Further In
The further you walk from the entrance, the fewer people and nicer the surroundings.
☀️ Day Trip Gem
Perfect for a quick nature escape close to Bend.
Good campsites in the area?
Tips
from all over the internet
🚗 Beat the Parking Fee
Park across the bridge and walk in to save the $10 day-use fee.
🏄 SUP Fin Tip
Remove your SUP's large fin; the river can be shallow.
🚶♀️ Explore Further In
The further you walk from the entrance, the fewer people and nicer the surroundings.
☀️ Day Trip Gem
Perfect for a quick nature escape close to Bend.
🌲 Diverse Trails
Hike along the river through Alder, Juniper, and Ponderosa Pine forests.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors praise Tumalo State Park for its beautiful Deschutes River access, peaceful hiking trails, and well-maintained picnic areas. It's considered a great spot for a relaxing day trip or a scenic camping experience close to Bend. Some find the parking fee a bit high, but alternative access methods are available.
"I visited Tumalo State Park for a day trip and really enjoyed the time there. The hike along the Deschutes River was peaceful and scenic, plenty of spots to pause and take in the views. The trail was well-maintained and easy to follow, making it perfect for a short, relaxing outdoor escape. It's a great spot if you're looking for a quick nature fix close to Bend."
C G
"Love this float, MUCH less busy than others in the area. The park offers great gathering areas and water access if you don't want to float. $10 parking fee."
Sarah Reinking
"This is a beautiful and peaceful park. The picnic areas are spread out. There is also a nice river walk"
tamera sweeney
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Tumalo State Park is located just off Highway 97, about four miles north of Bend, Oregon. You can reach it via O.B. Riley Road. Many visitors drive from Bend, and it's also accessible by bike for those looking for a longer adventure.
Public transportation options directly to Tumalo State Park are limited. It's best to have your own vehicle or consider ride-sharing services from Bend. Some visitors opt for biking to the park.
The park has a designated parking area with a $10 day-use fee. To avoid this fee, some visitors suggest parking across the bridge and taking a short walk into the park.
Yes, Tumalo State Park offers camping. It's a popular spot right on the Deschutes River and is often recommended for its scenic location.
Tumalo State Park is conveniently located near Bend, Oregon, making it a great starting point or stop for exploring other attractions like Tumalo Falls, Pilot Butte, and the Deschutes River Trail.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
There is a $10 day-use fee per vehicle to enter Tumalo State Park. This fee grants access to the park's trails, picnic areas, and river access for the day.
Some visitors have found success by parking across the bridge and walking into the park, thus avoiding the day-use fee. It's always good to check the official park website for any updated fee structures or alternative access points.
Tumalo State Park is generally open year-round, but specific hours for day-use and camping may vary seasonally. It's recommended to check the official Oregon State Parks website for the most current operating hours before your visit.
Yes, camping at Tumalo State Park is highly recommended to book in advance, especially during peak season. Popular campgrounds can fill up quickly. You can usually book through the Oregon State Parks reservation system.
Absolutely! Tumalo State Park is a fantastic destination for a day trip, offering beautiful river trails, swimming spots, and picnic areas for a relaxing outdoor experience close to Bend.
🎫 🏞️ Onsite Experience
The park features the popular Deschutes River Trail, a 1.4-mile path that winds along the river through diverse forests. It offers open spaces and a viewpoint above the rapids. Riley Ranch, accessible from the park, offers additional loop trails for longer hikes.
Yes, swimming in the Deschutes River is a popular activity at Tumalo State Park. The park offers good water access and is a great spot for cooling off on a warm day.
Besides hiking, visitors enjoy swimming, floating, kayaking, and picnicking at Tumalo State Park. It's also a great place to relax by the river and enjoy the natural scenery.
Yes, Tumalo State Park has several picnic areas that are spread out and well-maintained, providing lovely spots to enjoy a meal outdoors.
Dogs are generally allowed in Oregon State Parks, including Tumalo State Park, but they must be kept on a leash at all times. Always check specific park regulations for any restrictions.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
There are no restaurants located directly within Tumalo State Park. Visitors typically bring their own food for picnics or dine in nearby Bend, which offers a wide variety of dining options.
The park offers numerous picnic areas scattered throughout. For a quieter experience, visitors suggest heading further away from the entrance road, where you'll find fewer people and more serene surroundings.
Yes, bringing your own food and drinks is highly encouraged, especially for picnics. There are no concessions within the park, so packing your own provisions is essential for a full day of enjoyment.
Yes, Bend, Oregon, is just a short drive away and offers a plethora of dining choices, from casual cafes and breweries to more upscale restaurants. You can find options like 10 Barrel Brewing and Looney Bean Bend.
The Bend area is known for its craft breweries, farm-to-table restaurants, and casual eateries. You'll find everything from pizza and burgers to more adventurous culinary experiences.
📸 📸 Photography
The Deschutes River offers stunning photographic opportunities, especially along the river trail with its scenic views, rapids, and diverse forest surroundings. The viewpoint above the rapids is a prime spot.
Early morning or late afternoon often provide the best light for photography, with softer shadows and warmer tones. The golden hour can create magical shots along the river.
Yes, there's a notable viewpoint along the Deschutes River Trail, featuring a long metal boardwalk that offers great perspectives of the river and rapids.
A wide-angle lens is great for capturing the expansive river and forest landscapes. A telephoto lens can be useful for wildlife spotting. Waterproof protection for your gear is advisable if you plan to get close to the water.
Drone usage in Oregon State Parks is subject to specific regulations. It's essential to check the official Oregon State Parks website or contact the park directly for current rules regarding drone operation before flying.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
💰 Budget Travelers
🚶♀️ Day-Trippers
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Exploring the Deschutes River Trail
One of the most rewarding aspects of the trail is the viewpoint above the rapids. This elevated platform, constructed with a long metal boardwalk, offers breathtaking perspectives of the rushing water and the surrounding natural beauty. For those seeking a longer adventure, the trail connects to Riley Ranch, which features additional loop trails. This makes Tumalo State Park a versatile destination for both short, relaxing walks and more extensive explorations of the Oregon landscape.
River Activities and Safety
When engaging in river activities, it's important to be aware of the river's conditions. A key tip from experienced visitors is to remove the large fin from your stand-up paddleboard (SUP), as the river can be shallow in certain areas. This simple precaution can prevent damage to your equipment and ensure a smoother experience. Always prioritize safety by wearing a life jacket when appropriate and being mindful of currents and submerged obstacles.
Camping at Tumalo State Park
Given its popularity, it's crucial to plan ahead if you intend to camp. Reservations are strongly advised, particularly during the peak season, as campsites can be booked up well in advance. Checking the official Oregon State Parks reservation system is the best way to secure your spot. The park's location also makes it a convenient base for exploring other attractions in and around Bend, Oregon.

Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit