Who knew a family vacations in Oregon can turn into a real-life jungle gym? Smith Rock State Park has cliffs to climb, trails to conquer, and views that’ll make your jaw drop (and your kids actually put down their phones). The birthplace of American sport climbing, Smith Rock draws climbers from around the world. The high-desert canyon and rock formation in Central Oregon offer stunning scenery: cliffs, spires, and the Crooked River. There are 12 official trails to hike, including the popular Misery Ridge.
Central Oregon is a nature-lover’s paradise. The wild beauty of mountains, deserts, and rivers offers endless adventure throughout the year. Enjoy the small-town charm of historic Gilchrist, which was once a company lumber town and is now a quaint family getaway. Central Oregon averages 300 sunny days a year, making it the perfect place to vacation with family this summer.
Historic Gilchrist Waterfront Resort is designed with families in mind. Each of our four cabins and vacation home includes a long list of amenities to make your stay fun and memorable. Across our 12 acres, you’ll find sports courts for basketball and tennis, fire pits, and a heated lap pool, as well as plenty of yard games like badminton, croquet, and axe throwing. We also have a selection of pontoon and paddle Boats, paddleboards, and kayaks. You’ll never hear “I’m bored!” from your kids during your stay. Book your lodging now!
visiting Smith Rock state park with kids
Smith Rock State Park is a fabulous place to explore on your family vacations in Oregon this summer. There are family-friendly hiking trails, perfect for even the littlest legs. It’s the ideal place to learn about volcanoes, erosion, and ecosystems. Pack your binoculars to watch for nesting golden eagles. While you are marveling at the cliffs and spires formed millions of years ago, your kids will be in awe of the climbers scaling the faces of cliffs.
Here are our tips for making your trip to Smith Rock State Park enjoyable:
- Get to the park as early as possible. Temperatures average 90-95 degrees and occasionally reach 100. Plan to head out by 3 pm to avoid the most intense heat.
- Make sure to pack plenty of water and snacks. It’s suggested to pack 16 oz. of water per person for each hour of exertion. There are no concessions in the park.
- Wear hiking boots, if possible. You’ll want to wear shoes with good tread for walking down scree slopes (covered with small loose rocks). Stay on marked trails to help prevent erosion.
- Make sure to have sun protection. We recommend hats, sunglasses, and protective clothing, in addition to sunscreen.
- Watch for wildlife. Be aware that there are rattlesnakes in Smith Rock State Park.
Family-Friendly Hikes at Smith Rock State Park:
- The North Point Trail is a half-mile, flat loop that provides spectacular views of the river gorge. Birders may catch golden eagles feeding their young. Pack your binoculars! This trail also allows hikers the chance to watch climbers in some of the more popular climbing areas.
- The Canyon Trail is an easy 1.5-mile trail with gentle switchbacks. Watch for the boulder shaped like Woodstock from Charlie Brown. In addition to watching climbers in the area, you may catch a glimpse of horseback riders fording the river.
- The Wolf Tree Trail is an easy 1-mile trail with opportunities to watch raptor activity. Golden eagles construct 7-foot nests in the rock faces during nesting season.
- The River Trail is a 2.5-mile family favorite. This mostly flat trail allows hikers to cover a lot of Smith Rock State Park.
- The Rim Rock Trail is a half-mile stroll with spectacular views of the river canyon. There is a shady picnic area and a playground with a monkey face climbing wall for the kids.
Family-Friendly resort for vacations in oregon
After your Smith Rock State Park Adventure, head south to our historic waterfront resort for a beautiful and memorable family vacations in Oregon. Our cabins are one of the best places to stay in Central Oregon, especially if you are traveling with other families. Situated on the Gilchrist Log Pond, enjoy cozy accommodations, plenty of outdoor amenities for the whole family, and awe-inspiring views. There are sports courts for the kids to play basketball and volleyball, as well as a great selection of yard games that will keep everyone entertained for hours.
Your lodging is just steps from the water, allowing you to fill your days at our resort kayaking, paddleboarding, swimming, fishing, or just relaxing in the sun. Each cabin is comfortable and homey with plenty of space to spread out. Our well-stocked kitchens will make preparing your favorite dinner a breeze, before enjoying S’mores at the fire pit under the stars. For those traveling with larger groups or hosting a family reunion, consider our whole-house rental, complete with a chef’s kitchen, bunk rooms for the kids, and a vast great room offering a view of the lake.
Our waterfront cabins and vacation home are near all the top Central Oregon activities, located between Bend and Crater Lake National Park. Our lakefront property is an ideal spot to explore the area’s hiking trails, mountain lakes, National Forest, and other outdoor adventures on your family vacation in Oregon. Reserve your cabin today!
