Steelhead Falls Trail
The Bureau of Land Management (BLM) is responsible for 1 in every 10 acres of land in the U.S.
Steelhead Falls Trail offers a short 1-mile hike and features ancient basalt canyon walls, historic ruins, and a breathtaking 20-foot cascading waterfall. Visitors will see sagebrush and juniper lining a beautiful overlook of eroded rock layers with vibrant colors. The waterfall and pool are perfect for rock jumping and swimming. It’s the perfect place for RVers who love history and want to view abundant wildlife. It offers free onsite RV camping with easy road access.
Quick Facts About RVing in Steelhead Falls Trail
● RV Friendly: Yes ● Max RV Length: Recommended maximum length is 17 feet. ● Camping Type: Dispersed ● Reservations: No ● Hookups: None ● Dump Station: Nearest dump station is at Redmond Public Works RV Dump Station ● Potable Water: Bring your own ● Cell Service: None ● Pets: Allowed, but must be on a leash ● Roads: Dirt ● Best Season: Spring and summer
Why RV Travelers Love This BLM Area
● The hiking trail is short but offers brilliant views ● On-site free camping ● Free access to the trail without a permit ● Beautiful, cascading waterfall ● Water-related activities, including fishing, swimming, and cliff jumping ● Abundant wildlife
What to See and Do
Hiking and Biking
Steelhead Falls Trail
This trail, located at the direct site, is an out-and-back style trail. This route takes visitors through beautiful scenery and to the stunning waterfall (Steelhead Falls).
Length: 2.0 miles
Intensity: Beginner
Otter Bench Loop
This desert route takes hikers around a moderately steep loop. While it is open year round, this trail has limited shade, making it very hot in the summer months. Otter Bench Loop is not typically crowded and is therefore a great place to experience peace and quiet.
Length: 9.3 miles
Intensity: Intermediate
Alder Springs Trail
Alder Springs Trail takes hikers through geological formations and scenic views of desert areas and creeks. The trail ends with Adler Springs, showcasing beautiful wildflowers and wildlife.
Length: 5.7 miles
Intensity: Difficult
Fishing and Boating
The area surrounding Steelhead Falls Trail is great for those looking for fishing and boating opportunities. The Deschutes River is located nearby, offering a great spot for trout fishing, especially steelhead. Haystack Reservoir is also located close to Steelhead Falls Trail and is a great spot for serene fishing. There are several boat ramps surrounding Steelhead Falls to aid in motorized and non-motorized boating in the local rivers and lakes.
Wildlife Viewing
There is an abundance of wildlife scattered throughout the breathtaking scenery of Steelhead Falls. Many visitors can spot golden eagles flying overhead, alongside other beautiful birds. When viewing wildlife, keep a safe distance. Steelhead Falls Trail has rattlesnakes often hiding within the trail. Be sure to check your surroundings and your feet and hand placement when visiting. Rattlesnakes like to hide under rocks and in brushy areas.
Picnicking
Picnicking is a great way to spend time outdoors. This can be achieved on both the trails and formal picnic areas at Steelhead Falls Trail. The campsite located at Steelhead Falls Trail has several picnic tables. Travelers can also bring a picnic blanket and a selection of food if rustic picnicking is preferred. When picnicking on public land, be sure to clean up your area of any leftover food, garbage and belongings.
Swimming
Steelhead Falls Trail ends with a stunning rushing waterfall. On hot days, many visitors bring a bathing suit and take a dip in the refreshing water of the falls. Downstream of the falls, swimming is available in calmer water. Pets are allowed at Steelhead Falls Trail, making it a popular spot for swimming for dogs, as well!
Bureau of Land Management Camping
RV Camping 
BLM RV Camping is possible at River Rim RV Park. River Rim has full hookup options, on-site laundry and offers affordable rates. This RV park is open year round. RV owners can also camp on BLM-managed land, such as Steelhead Falls Trail, however there is limited trailer parking.
Dispersed Camping
Dispersed camping is available at the Steelhead Falls Trailhead and Campground. It is located directly at the trailhead and is accessible via Crooked River Ranch and River Road. You’ll find campfire rings and vaulted toilets. Potable water is not available, so bring your own. The maximum stay is 14 days out of a 28-day period. Roads around the campground are dirt and could become muddy during storms. Stay informed about fire restrictions during summer months and announcements for local fire bans. Smaller RVs and camper vans are recommended for this area.
Is This BLM Area Good for Your RV?
● Camper Vans: Camper vans are a great choice for the terrain, and many models offer 4x4 capabilities. Camper vans have a short wheelbase with a tight turning radius, and they have higher clearance to avoid washboard effects. They are also a more compact size and easier to navigate through trailhead lots. ● Travel Trailers: Whether a travel trailer is suitable depends on a few things, such as whether it has a single axle or if it’s an off-road model. You can tow them with a 4x4 truck; however, backing up could become difficult, especially in tight areas. ● Fifth Wheels: Fifth wheels are not recommended for this region, since they are too long and are harder to turn around. In addition, they might become stuck and block off access to roadways. ● Class A Motorhomes: Class A motorhomes are more likely to become stuck due to their size. They are low to the ground and could become damaged on steep roads. You are also less likely to get a safe option for turning around in a dispersed campground. ● Class B Motorhomes: Smaller models have a shorter wheelbase and handle turns more easily. They have higher clearance and won’t bottom out. You can also maneuver them in rugged terrain. ● Class C Motorhomes: If you choose a Class C motorhome under 24 feet, it will have a short wheelbase and fit into smaller spaces. You will need to remain cautious when driving on steep slopes due to the rear overhang.
Free Camping 
Unless otherwise noted, the BLM allows visitors to camp on their public lands for free. There is an official campsite at Steelhead Falls with limited amenities. Overnight camping sites are free and available on a first come first served basis. There is one outhouse available at this site. Bureau of Land Management free camping is also available through dispersed camping at Steelhead Falls Trail.
RV Rentals Near Steelhead Falls Trail Plan your next adventure
Planning your Steelhead Falls Trail BLM trip
At Steelhead Falls Trail, there is no potable water available. When planning your trip to the trail, it is important to pack extra water. The Steelhead Falls campsite is not far from the falls, however, this is not appropriate drinking water.
Additionally, you will want to check restrictions at the campsite prior to travel. During summer months, there are often campfire restrictions set to reduce the risk of wildfires. Before you head out on your trip, check out our blog for all you need to know about BLM camping.
What RV Travelers Should Know Before Arriving
RVers will need to bring their own potable water, as it isn’t readily available for dispersed camping. You will find gas stations about 15 minutes away, and grocery and camping stores are about 30 minutes away. The nearest dump station is at Redmond Public Works RV Dump Station. Cellular service is spotty throughout the trailhead. RVers can use generators on the public lands and dispersed campgrounds but must observe the BLM quiet hours between 10 p.m. and 8 a.m. You must follow a leave-no-trace policy for trash. Extreme summer heat and winter snow and ice can affect your visit at Steelhead Falls Trail. The edges of access roads are paved at the highway and interstate; however, all roads throughout the trailhead are dirt. Redmond and Bend are the closest cities, and Crooked River Ranch Fire & Rescue provides emergency services for this area. For more tips, you can read our RV Camping Supplies Packing Guide.
Leave No Trace 
During your time at Steelhead Falls Trail, it is important to follow Leave No Trace principles throughout the entirety of your stay. These guidelines are recommended by the BLM in order to properly preserve public lands. To Leave No Trace, throw away your trash promptly, dispose of all waste and leave your areas in the way you found them when you arrived. Additionally, it is important to respect all wildlife during your visit. Overall, maintaining Leave No Trace principles allows visitors to spend time on public lands for years to come.
Steelhead Falls Trail Location
Steelhead Falls Trail is best accessed from Redmond. Take Hwy 97 north and turn west onto NE Lower Bridge Way. After two miles, turn right onto 43rd Street/Chinook Drive. After approximately one mile, take a left onto Badger Road, then a right onto Quail Road. Take one final left onto River Road and follow the hill to the trail entrance and campsite.
Ready to visit Burn Canyon Trail System? An RV rental is a great way to experience your destination. Not only will you be close to all the action, but at the end of a long day exploring, you’ll have your RV to return to for the night where you’ll enjoy a full kitchen, bathroom, and nice soft bed. Not sure about renting an RV? Here’s a step-by-step guide to renting an RV with RVshare.
Plan Your Day at Steelhead Falls Trail
● Morning: Travel to Steelhead Falls Trailhead and park your RV in the designated parking lot. Complete the 1-mile hike and enjoy beautiful views of the Deschutes River canyon. You will see the breathtaking 20-foot cascading waterfall, wildlife, and the canyon walls. ● Afternoon: Stop in at Redmond and grab a quick lunch and relax. Drive to the Peter Skene Ogden Viewpoint, which is about 15 minutes from the trailhead. The road is paved and doesn’t present any hazards for your RV. You will see stunning views of Crooked River and nearby historic bridges. ● Evening: In the evening, stop at Wild Ride Brewing and enjoy a refreshing cocktail. You can grab a quick dinner there or go to The Vault Taphouse. After dinner, you can return to your RV to relax under the stars.
Nearby Attractions
● Smith Rock State Park: Smith Rock State Park south of the trailhead, about 25 minutes away. It offers turf cliffs and towering basalt. You will find opportunities for rock climbing. The Misery Ridge Trail is also nearby. ● The Cove Palisades State Park: Cove Palisades State Park, 35 minutes north, is on Lake Billy Chinook with massive canyon walls. You can find many outdoor activities, including boating, water sports, and camping. ● Peter Skene Ogden State Scenic Viewpoint: Fifteen minutes away, Peter Skene Ogden State Scenic Viewpoint offers historic bridges and deep canyon views. You will see a full view of Crooked River Gorge. ● Scout Camp Trail: Scout Camp Trail spans just over 2 miles and offers beautiful views of wildlife and the river. It is challenging due to its steep terrain. You can drive there in about 15 minutes. ● Cline Falls State Scenic Viewpoint Cline Falls State Scenic Viewpoint is about 30 minutes away and offers opportunities for picnics, fishing, and peaceful walks near the Deschutes River.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can you RV camp at Steelhead Falls Trail? Yes, you will find primitive and dispersed camping options at Steelhead Falls Trail. The unmarked camping spots are first-come, first-served and free. There aren’t any hookups for your RV, and you must bring your own potable water. Are generators allowed at Steelhead Falls Trail? Yes, generators are permitted at Steelhead Falls Trail. However, you are required to adhere to the BLM quiet hours, which are 10 p.m. to 8 a.m. You are responsible for securing your generator, and you can find tips about choosing a generator on our generator guide. Is four-wheel drive necessary for visiting Steelhead Falls Trail? While you aren’t required to have four-wheel drive, it can make navigating the area easier. Some camper vans and Class B motorhomes are available as 4x4 models. They have a shorter wheelbase and turn more easily, and they are highly recommended for the dirt roads and steep conditions at Steelhead Falls Trail. Is cellular service available at Steelhead Falls Trail? Cellular service is spotty at best and nonexistent in most areas of the trail. If you are traveling with friends or family, you should consider handheld walkie-talkies. They can be important if someone gets lost or an emergency arises. How long can you stay at Steelhead Falls Trail? You can stay up to 14 days within a 28-day period. However, if you want to extend your trip, you can move to other BLM public lands or an RV park or campground. There are several developed and dispersed options nearby.
Rent the Right RV for This Trip
When planning a trip to Steelhead Falls Trail, renting the right RV is critical to ensure that you are comfortable and have a positive experience. Smaller camper vans and Class B motorhomes are highly recommended for this trip and will help you maneuver through the steep and dusty terrain more easily. Renting an RV can give you a worry-free trip, and most owners offer setup and delivery. Browse our RV rentals in Redmond and find the best choice for your Steelhead Falls Trail trip.