🌤 Weather at White River Falls State Park by season
| Spring | Summer | Fall | Winter |
|---|---|---|---|
| 32–72 °F | 45–88 °F | 31–79 °F | 27–47 °F |
Each range runs from the coldest monthly average low to the warmest monthly average high in that season (1991-2020 climate normals), measured at Dufur, 15 mi away, elevation 1,330 ft. Conditions at the park can differ from the station, especially where elevation differs — check a forecast before you go.
White River Falls State Park is a public state park in Oregon near Tygh Valley. Spanning 295 acres and established in 1969, this park offers a peaceful retreat into nature for visitors of all ages.
Quick Facts
| State | Oregon |
| Nearest City | Tygh Valley |
| Park Size | 295 acres |
| Established | 1969 |
| Google Rating | ⭐ 4.5/5 (400 reviews) |
Location & Getting There
White River Falls State Park is located near Tygh Valley, Oregon. The park’s coordinates are 45.2413, -121.0955.
Explore More Oregon State Parks
White River Falls State Park is one of many outstanding state parks in Oregon. Discover more parks in our Best State Parks in Oregon guide, or use our Park Finder to search by activity, location, or features.
Wildlife & Nature
White River Falls State Park features a spectacular 90-foot waterfall plunging over columnar basalt — one of the most dramatic and accessible waterfalls in central Oregon. The falls powered a hydroelectric plant (1901-1960) whose ruins create a haunting industrial relic beside the cascade. The White River — fed by glaciers on Mt. Hood — carries a high sediment load that gives it a milky color (the source of its name). The canyon’s basalt columns — formed when thick lava flows cooled slowly, contracting into hexagonal pillars — reveal the volcanic forces that built central Oregon. Turkey vultures soar on thermal updrafts from the canyon. Canyon wrens — with their descending cascade of musical notes — sing from the basalt walls. Rattlesnakes inhabit the dry canyon slopes.
Nearby Attractions
Maupin — the “Whitewater Capital of Oregon” — is 15 miles north on the Deschutes River. Deschutes River offers world-class rafting, kayaking, and fly fishing. Sherar’s Falls — a sacred fishing site for the Warm Springs Tribes — features Native American dip-net fishing platforms. Tygh Valley hosts the annual All-Indian Rodeo. Mt. Hood is visible to the west. Shaniko — Oregon’s most famous ghost town — once billed itself as the “Wool Capital of the World.”
Make it a road trip: Pair a visit with Casey State Recreation Site (within about an hour’s drive) or Deschutes River State Recreation Area (within about an hour’s drive).
🐾 Dogs & Pets at White River Falls State Park
- Pets allowed? statewide rule
- Pets are welcome in Oregon state parks and on most ocean beaches but must be leashed except in designated off-leash areas.
- Leash rule statewide rule
- Leash no longer than 6 feet required in developed park areas
- Beaches & swim areas statewide rule
- Pets are allowed on most ocean beaches under direct control; western snowy plover nesting areas restrict pets March 15 - Sept. 15; leash required on the beach at some parks (e.g. Cape Lookout)
- Cabins & lodging statewide rule
- Designated pet-friendly yurts and cabins at many parks (South Beach has 14 pet-friendly yurts, Tugman 8); maximum two dogs and/or cats; $10 per night pet fee
- Pet fees statewide rule
- $10 per night for pet-friendly yurts/cabins; no pet fee for day use or campsites
- Statewide exceptions statewide rule
- Pets prohibited at Dabney SRA, the Trail of Ten Falls at Silver Falls, and Shore Acres; off-leash areas at Stub Stewart, Willamette Mission, Elijah Bristow, Cottonwood Canyon and LaPine
Are dogs allowed at White River Falls State Park?
Pets are welcome in Oregon state parks and on most ocean beaches but must be leashed except in designated off-leash areas. Individual parks can post stricter rules — check signage on arrival.
Rules verified July 2026 via stateparks.oregon.gov. More: Oregon state parks guide · Dog rules in all 50 states compared
Park Location
Plan your gear for White River Falls State Park
From our editorial guides, matched to this park’s activities:
