About Middle Deschutes Wild and Scenic River
Just minutes northwest of the fast-growing urban environment of Redmond, Oregon, a deeply incised river canyon confines the riffles and rapids of the Middle Deschutes Wild and Scenic River. Delight in the trailside pool at Steelhead Falls or challenge yourself to a short but strenuous hike at Scout Camp trail.Know Before You GoAlthough public access to the river is ample, be sure to avoid intermingled private property when visiting the Middle Deschutes River.Campfires are prohibited within 0.5 mile from the river’s edge from June 1 through October 15, annually.Pets are allowed but should be leashed to prevent wildlife confrontations.When recreating, practice Leave-No-Trace principles.Point of InterestFor a spectacular hike through geologic time-and colorful volcanic rock layers, check out the Steelhead Falls Trail.A Steelhead Falls Short Video
How to Get There
Steelhead Falls Trail: From Terrebonne, turn west on Lower Bridge Road and proceed 2.2 miles to NW 43rd St. Turn right and drive 1.8 miles to NW Chinook Drive. Turn left at the 2nd cross street onto SW Badger Road and go 1.8 miles to SW Quail Drive and proceed another 1.2 miles. Turn left onto SW River Road and drive 1.0 mile to the trailhead.Scout Camp Trail: From Terrebonne, turn west on Lower Bridge Road and proceed 2.2 miles to NW 43rd St. Turn right and drive 1.8 miles to NW Chinook Drive. Drive 2.4 miles and turn left onto Mustang Rd and proceed another 0.2 miles. Turn right to stay on Mustang Rd and go another 0.5 miles. Turn right to stay on Mustang Rd for another 0.4 miles and turn right onto SW Shad Rd. Drive 1.4 miles to SW Peninsula Drive and turn right; drive another 3.2 miles turning left onto SW Meadow Rd and proceed another 0.6 miles turning right onto SW Scout Camp Trail. In another 0.3 miles, Scout Camp Trailhead will be at the end of the road.
Driving directions (Google Maps) →Plan Your Visit to Middle Deschutes Wild and Scenic River
Heading to Middle Deschutes Wild and Scenic River? A few things to know before you go:
- Reservations: popular sites fill up fast — check Recreation.gov 6 months in advance
- Fees: day-use and camping fees vary; check current rates on the official park page
- Trash & pack-out: follow Leave No Trace principles
- Wildlife: store food in bear boxes where provided; never feed wildlife
- Weather: the 5-day forecast above is updated every 6 hours; verify just before you go
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I need a reservation for Middle Deschutes Wild and Scenic River?
No central reservation system listed for Middle Deschutes Wild and Scenic River. Check the official page (https://www.recreation.gov/recarea/16829) for the latest entry policy and availability.
How do I get to Middle Deschutes Wild and Scenic River?
Steelhead Falls Trail: From Terrebonne, turn west on Lower Bridge Road and proceed 2.2 miles to NW 43rd St. Turn right and drive 1.8 miles to NW Chinook Drive. Turn left at the 2nd cross street onto SW Badger Road and go 1.8 miles to SW Quail Drive and proceed another 1.2 miles. Turn left onto SW River Road and drive 1.0 mile to the trailhead.Scout Camp Trail: From Terrebonne, turn west on Lower B…
How do I contact Middle Deschutes Wild and Scenic River?
You can reach the park at phone: 541-416-6700 or email: BLM_OR_PR_Mail@blm.gov.
References & Official Resources