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Home >  United States  >  Oregon  >  Terrebonne  >  

The Cove Palisades State Park

The Cove Palisades State Park

United States, Oregon, Terrebonne 

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The Cove Palisades State Park

United States, Oregon, Terrebonne 

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Sandee The Cove Palisades State Park

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The Cove Palisades State Park, located in central Oregon's high desert near Terrebonne, encompasses the dramatic canyons of the Deschutes and Crooked Rivers surrounding Lake Billy Chinook. Known for its towering basaltic cliffs and year-round recreational opportunities, the park combines desert landscapes with expansive water access. Visitors describe it as an oasis for outdoor enthusiasts, offering a mix of serene paddling routes and adrenaline-pumping water sports against a backdrop of rugged geological formations[1][3][4].

The park's vibrant energy peaks during summer months with houseboat rentals and bustling marinas, while quieter seasons reveal tranquil waters ideal for wildlife spotting and stargazing. Its unique blend of desert ecology and aquatic adventures creates a distinctive Pacific Northwest experience, drawing campers, hikers, and water sports fans alike[1][3][5].

Nearby dining options cater to various tastes, from hearty breakfasts to casual pub fare. Brand 44° N stands out for its artisanal breakfasts and vegan-friendly options, praised for fast service and outdoor seating. Pump House Bar & Grill offers a lively atmosphere with live music and karaoke, serving comfort food alongside craft cocktails. Seasonal visitors can enjoy the Cove Palisades Store & Cafe right at the marina, providing quick bites and lake views during warmer months.

For craft beer enthusiasts, Over The Edge Taphouse features rotating local brews and pub games, while Big Dog Saloon delivers classic American fare in a rustic setting. Most establishments emphasize outdoor seating and kid-friendly menus, catering to the park's active visitor demographic.

Smith Rock Resort dominates local accommodations with its unique yurt-style lodgings and canyon views 15 minutes from the park. Guests praise its pet-friendly policies, outdoor pool, and proximity to hiking trails. The resort's golf course and seasonal food truck appeal to families and adventurers alike.

While direct park lodging consists of three seasonal cabins (reservable through Oregon State Parks), nearby options include Crooked River Ranch Cabins (0.6mi from Smith Rock Resort) offering secluded stays. Copper Ridge RV Park provides budget-friendly RV sites, though the Cove Palisades' own Crooked River and Deschutes River campgrounds remain the most immersive options for park visitors[1][5].

The park provides three day-use areas with swim beaches, accessible kayak launches, and boat ramps. Seasonal amenities include a full-service marina renting water toys, skis, and life jackets, along with a store selling fuel and ice. Campgrounds offer picnic tables, restrooms, and showers, while deluxe cabins feature kitchenettes and lake views[1][3].

From April to October, The Cove Palisades Resort enhances visitor comfort with boat moorages, houseboat rentals, and a café. Winter months see reduced services, but maintained restrooms and year-round hiking trail access ensure off-season usability[1][3].

Water sports dominate summer activities, with Lake Billy Chinook accommodating skiing, tubing, and sailing. The marina rents equipment for paddleboarding, jet skiing, and fishing excursions targeting rainbow trout and kokanee salmon. Hikers can tackle the 6-mile Tam-a-láu Trail showcasing canyon vistas, while photographers frequent the palisades at golden hour[3][4][5].

Winter transforms the park into a paddling paradise, with glassy waters perfect for eagle spotting. Year-round options include rock climbing on nearby basalt formations and stargazing events leveraging the park's dark sky conditions. The Crooked River arm offers 30+ miles of flatwater kayaking routes popular among birdwatchers[3][4].

Accessible features include ADA-compliant restrooms, kayak launches at Upper Deschutes and Crooked River day-use areas, and paved pathways to key viewpoints. One pet-friendly cabin offers mobility-friendly design, while campgrounds maintain ADA sites with firm surfaces and fire ring access.

The marina provides beach wheelchairs upon request, and staff assist with boarding rental watercraft. Interpretive programs feature ASL interpreters when scheduled in advance, making geological and ecological displays inclusive[1][3].

Two main lots service the park: Lower Deschutes (canyon-level) and Crooked River (cliff-top), both offering free day-use parking. Campground parking permits one vehicle plus tow rig per site ($7/night for extra vehicles). RV sites accommodate larger rigs, though overflow parking outside gates may be required during peak seasons.

The marina area provides dedicated launch ramp parking, while trailheads maintain gravel lots. Visitors note early arrival ensures best access to prime spots near swim beaches. Winter reduces capacity with Lower Deschutes parking closed, but upper lots remain plowed[1][5].

The park's name originates from an 1878 homesteader's description of a swimming hole as "The Cove," while "Palisades" references the 400-ft basalt cliffs lining Lake Billy Chinook. These volcanic formations were created by ancient lava flows meeting ancestral river channels.

Lake Billy Chinook itself is a hydrological marvel - a three-armed reservoir formed by dashing the Crooked, Metolius, and Deschutes Rivers. It holds enough water to cover Manhattan 10ft deep. Golden eagles frequently nest in the rimrock, while rare desert wildflowers bloom each spring[3][4][5].

Nearby Smith Rock State Park (4.9★) lures rock climbers to its iconic Monkey Face formation and Misery Ridge Trail. The Peter Skene Ogden State Scenic Viewpoint offers vertigo-inducing canyon perspectives, while the Round Butte Dam Overlook reveals geological wonders. Local ranches provide horseback riding through juniper-dotted landscapes, complementing the park's water-centric attractions.

Cultural enthusiasts visit the nearby Museum at Warm Springs, while geological fans explore the Crooked River Caldera's volcanic legacy. Seasonal ranger programs at the Cove Palisades interpret area ecology and pioneer history[3][4].

Basic Details

INParking

IN24 / 7

INRestroom Available

INGPVC+WH Culver, OR, USA

Know Before You Go

Amenities

  • ATM

  • Barbecue

  • Boat Ramp

  • Dogs

  • Entry Fee

  • Fire Pits

  • Hidden

  • Lifeguard

  • Marine Life

  • Pier

  • Playground

  • Icon for Beach AmenitiesRestrooms

  • Shops

  • Icon for Beach AmenitiesShowers

  • WiFi

  • Icon for Beach AmenitiesPicnic Table

  • Activities

  • Bike Paths

  • Camping

  • Clubs Party Scene

  • Icon for Beach AmenitiesFishing

  • Hiking

  • Nude

  • Paddle boarding

  • Scuba Diving

  • Snorkeling

  • Surfing

  • Tours

  • Volleyball

  • Cave

  • Rentals

  • ATV

  • Bikes

  • Boat

  • Fishing Boats

  • Jet Skiing

  • Kayaking Canoeing

  • Chair Rentals

  • Sailing

  • Speed Boats

  • Umbrella Rental

  • Waterskiing

  • Windsurfing

  • Yachts

  • Food

  • Bars

  • Food Snacks

  • Local Beach Vendor

  • Lounge

  • Restaurants

  • Access

  • Bike Racks

  • Car Access

  • Icon for Beach AmenitiesDisabled Access

  • Foot Access

  • Icon for Beach AmenitiesParking - Free

  • Icon for Beach AmenitiesParking - Paid

  • Parking - RV Parking

  • Parking - Street

  • Public Bus Stop

  • Stairs to Beach

  • Boat Access

  • Features

  • Blue Flag

  • Jellyfish

  • Pebbles

  • Riptide

  • Rocky

  • Sharks

  • LGBTQ+

  • The Cove Palisades State Park - Beach Map

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    Frequently Asked Questions

    Surf through our FAQs to help you find your perfect beach!

    Does The Cove Palisades State Park have parking? If so, is it free or paid?

    Yes, this Beach provides paid parking at the entrance, although spaces are limited. Visitors can also find street parking nearby for easy access to the beach.

    Does The Cove Palisades State Park have lifeguards?

    No, this Beach does not have lifeguards monitoring the beach - please be careful when swimming on this beach.

    Is The Cove Palisades State Park a family-friendly beach?

    No, this Beach is not family-friendly and does not have restrooms, lifeguards, and nearby food.

    Is The Cove Palisades State Park good for swimming?

    Yes, this Beach boasts excellent swimming conditions, attracting swimmers of all skill levels with its gentle waves and clear waters.

    Does The Cove Palisades State Park have restrooms?

    Yes, Restrooms are conveniently available on or adjacent to the beach at this Beach.

    Is The Cove Palisades State Park a nude beach?

    No, this Beach maintains a family-friendly atmosphere and does not allow nude bathing.

    Is there food near The Cove Palisades State Park?

    No, this Beach does not have nearby food options - please plan your beach day accordingly.

    What are the activities at The Cove Palisades State Park?

    Yes, this Beach is renowned for its vibrant beach scene, offering various activities for everyone to enjoy Camping, Fishing, Hiking, Paddleboarding.

    Does The Cove Palisades State Park have accommodations for people with disabilities?

    Yes, this Beach offers accommodations for people with disabilities, allowing everyone to relish the coastal experience.

    Is The Cove Palisades State Park a dog-friendly beach?

    Yes, bring your dog with you to this Beach!

    Is The Cove Palisades State Park good for surfing?

    No, this Beach is not generally considered to be good for surfing.

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