As you might expect, the state of Oregon is full of amazing waterfalls. From towering drops to small but mighty cascades, we had a hard time narrowing them down to the top 10 list. So if you’re a waterfall hunter, be sure to take an RV trip through Oregon to visit some of these impressive waterfalls!
Waterfalls in Oregon
1. Multnomah Falls
2. Salt Creek Falls
3. Tumalo Falls
4. Tamolitch Blue Pool
5. Wahkeena Falls
6. Whitehorse Falls
7. Toketee Falls
8. Punch Bowl Falls
9. Tamanawas Falls
10. South Falls
Visiting Waterfalls in Oregon
While there are over 200 waterfalls in Oregon, we’ve pulled together 10 of our favorites for you to visit on your next RV trip.
1. Multnomah Falls
We’re starting our list of amazing waterfalls in Oregon with Multnomah Falls. Part of the Columbia River Gorge National Scenic area, this waterfall is one of the most visited natural recreation site in the Pacific Northwest. And it’s easy to see why! The waterfall is 611 feet tall and is easy to view. It’s only a 5 minute walk from the parking area to the base of the falls. From there you can also walk up a paved trail to the Benson Bridge which spans the falls and is the perfect place to take in the waterfall’s magnificence.
Things to do near Multnomah Falls: Once you’re done gaping at the waterfall, head to the historic Multnomah Lodge. Built in 1925, this building has a gift shop, restaurant, and information center with all you need to know about the waterfall. Multnomah Falls is located just 30 minutes outside of Portland, making it easy to visit. Need a way to get there? We’ve got you covered with local RV rentals.
2. Salt Creek Falls
Located in the Willamette National Forest, Salt Creek Falls is the second highest single drop waterfall in Oregon. Visitors can view this impressive 286-foot drop from the observation deck at the top of the falls, or take the short but steep trail to the waterfall’s base. The top observation platform is only 50 yards from the parking area and is wheelchair accessible, making this a popular spot for sightseeing. If you’re looking to hike, the Salt Creek Falls Trail is a gravel loop trail that will take you along the canyon and has interpretive signs along the way.
Things to do near Salt Creek Falls: This waterfall is located 60 miles from Eugene and 75 miles from Bend. We’ve pulled together a local’s guide for Bend to help you find the best things to do, eat, and see.
3. Tumalo Falls
And speaking of Bend, if you visit this outdoor haven, be sure to stop by Tumalo Falls. This 97-foot waterfall sits on Tumalo Creek in Deschutes National Forest. These beautiful falls are only a few minutes walk from the parking area, and there’s picnic areas and trailheads for hiking and mountain biking nearby. You’ll need to purchase a pass to park here and it’s a popular spot, so visit during the weekdays if you want to avoid the weekend crowds.
Things to do near Tumalo Falls: The falls are just 30 minutes outside of Bend and all the outdoor activities of this region. Be sure to check out our local’s guide for the best things to see there! And we’ve got you covered with local RV rentals.
4. Tamolitch Blue Pool
This next waterfall might not be big, but the spot is amazing. Tamolitch Blue Pool is a basin of unbelievably clear blue water in the middle of the forest. While the waterfall can typically only be seen in spring after the snow melts, the pools is fed by underground springs. Following the McKenzie River Trail will take you through the old growth forest and lead you to this gorgeous pool and waterfall. You can observe the pool from above or head down the embankment for an up-close view. But while the pools looks inviting, the water stays around a chilly 37 degrees year round. So keep that in mind if you decide to take a dip!
Things to do near Tamolitch Blue Pool: This waterfall is located 60 miles northeast of Bend in the Willamette National Forest. It’s the perfect time to drive all or some of the McKenzie Pass-Santiam Pass Scenic Byway to see the incredible scenery of the Cascade Range.
5 Wahkeena Falls
Wahkeena Falls is another gorgeous waterfall in Oregon. This 242-foot tiered waterfall is just west of Multnomah Falls on the Historic Columbia River Highway. There’s an overlook for the falls right near the parking area, but you can follow the 0.4 mile trail to another viewpoint for the waterfall. There are several trailheads nearby for hikers to explore, as well as picnic spots and a day use area.
Things to do near Wahkeena Falls: Be sure to visit the nearby Multnomah Falls and drive along the Historic Columbia River Highway to see the beautiful scenery and hike some of the local trails. Portland is located less than 30 miles away.
6. Whitehorse Falls
While Whitehorse Falls isn’t the tallest or biggest waterfall on our list, it’s a picturesque spot that’s popular for photographers and nature enthusiasts alike for its strong rush and beautiful surroundings. While it’s only 14 feet tall, the scenery makes it worth a stop. Two large logs cross in front of the falls, making it a unique spot for the perfect photo or selfie. They’re also very easy to get to, it’s just a short walk from the parking lot.
Things to do near Whitehorse Falls: This waterfall is located on U.S. Highway 138 and is just down the road from our next waterfall, making it easy to visit both in one day. Crater Lake National Park is nearby, and there are several amazing waterfalls and many great hikes in the Umpqua National Forest.
7. Toketee Falls
Toketee Falls is another great waterfall at the end of a short out and back trail. Hike a short 0.4 miles each way along the North Umpqua River to the beautiful waterfall. The first drop of the waterfall is 40 feet from a slot canyon, while the second descent is 80 feet over volcanic basalt rock into a pool. There are picnic tables near the parking lot if you’d like to enjoy lunch after the hike.
Things to do near Toketee Falls: You’re right down the road from Whitehorse Falls, and just 28 miles to Crater Lake National Park. We’ve got you covered with a guide to the national park, as well as local RV rentals. You’re also near Umpqua Hot Springs and the city of Bend.
8. Punch Bowl Falls
Another unique waterfall in Oregon is Punch Bowl Falls. Located in the Columbia River Gorge National Scenic Area, this waterfall can be accessed by the Eagle Creek Trail. While it’s a smaller waterfall at only about 30-35 feet, it’s very popular with hikers. The pool of water gives it the name “punchbowl” for its shape, and it’s a lovely place to stop and splash in the water.
Things to do near Punch Bowl Falls: There are several other waterfalls on our list that are nearby, including Multnomah Falls, Tamanawas Falls, and Wahkeena Falls, as well as other waterfalls such as Bridal Veil Falls. Mount Hood is located just to the south, and Portland is 40 mile west.
9. Tamanawas Falls
Tamanawas Falls is a gorgeous waterfall that drops over a 100-foot lava cliff on the eastern side of Mount Hood. The waterfall is the most powerful in spring, but the summer flowers and fall foliage make this a beautiful hike no matter when you go. Follow the 3.4 mile out and back trail through the beautiful scenery to the falls. It’s a popular destination, so come early or go during the week to avoid crowds.
Things to do near Tamanawas Falls: Explore the Mount Hood National Forest for some amazing hiking. Or drive the Mount Hood Scenic Loop if you want to see the incredible scenery from the road. And be sure to stop by the historic Timberline Lodge. And if you’re visiting in winter, visit some of the ski resorts for skiing and snowboarding.
10. South Falls
We couldn’t talk about waterfalls in Oregon without mentioning the 7.2 mile Trail of 10 Falls in Silver Falls State Park. This state park is known for great hiking and 10 different waterfalls that you can see on the trail. The largest waterfall is South Falls, which plunges 175 feet into a pool. What’s special about this waterfall is that the paved trail to see it goes behind the curtain of falling water for some epic views.
Things to do near South Falls: Continue the hike to some of the other falls on the trail like North Falls, or Winter Falls. There are several day use areas and trailheads in the state park that make is easier to see more of the falls without walking the entire 7.2 miles. We have a guide to the state park, as well as local RV rentals if you need a way to visit. And here’s a trail map that lays out the location of all of the waterfalls in the park.
Planning an RV Trip to Oregon
An RV trip is an excellent way to tour the many incredible waterfalls in Oregon, and we’ve got all the resources you need to plan a perfect vacation.
Here are guides to some of the best state parks in Oregon, as well as all the national parks in the country. And as always, we’re here to help when it comes to finding the best campgrounds and RV rentals.
