Is swimming allowed at South Fork Falls?

No, swimming is not allowed at South Fork Falls.

South Fork Falls

Q: Are dogs allowed at South Fork Falls?

Yes, dogs are allowed at South Fork Falls.

Oregon

By Armen Suny · Last verified Sep 2026

LiDAR & 3D terrain

Also For 2 other waterfalls also named South Fork Falls, see below

Prineville Central Oregon Field Office PUB · Bureau of Land Management

Photo Credits (5)

Ian Sane CC BY 2.0 · Flickr

Twelvizm CC BY-ND 2.0 · Flickr

BLM Oregon & Washington CC BY 2.0 · Flickr

Difficulty

Easy

Trail Length

1.5 miles

Trail Type

Out And Back

About South Fork Falls

South Fork Falls is a peaceful little cascade tucked into forested country in central Oregon. Nestled on public lands managed by the Bureau of Land Management’s Prineville Central Oregon Field Office (designation: PUB), it’s a quieter, less-developed outing that appeals to hikers looking for a serene spot away from busier recreation areas. The short approach runs through shaded woods and opens to a pleasant waterfall setting that’s perfect for a picnic or a calm nature break. The hike to the falls is a moderate outing that’s accessible for many visitors who are comfortable on uneven terrain. The trail is an out-and-back route of 2.4 miles with roughly 350 feet of elevation gain, and because the corridor is BLM-managed expect a simple, low-impact trail experience with fewer facilities. The nearest maintained cabin/campground is Deer Creek Guard Station Cabin, about 16.15 km away, so plan accordingly for overnight stays.

The Setting

South Fork Falls sits at 3,566 feet within Prineville Central Oregon Field Office, in the mountains of Oregon.

Trail & Hike Details

Trail Description

This is a 2.4-mile out-and-back trail on BLM land (Prineville Central Oregon Field Office) with approximately 350 feet of elevation gain and a moderate difficulty rating. The route follows natural dirt tread through shaded, forested terrain and is generally non-technical, but grades can be steady in places and the tread may become muddy or slippery during wet weather. Suitable for hikers comfortable with moderate climbs and uneven surfaces; bring appropriate footwear and water.

What to Expect

Dogs are welcome.

Accessibility

The trail is not wheelchair accessible. Uneven terrain and elevation changes require steady footing.

Frequently Asked Questions

🐶 Are Dogs Allowed at South Fork Falls?

✅ Dogs are allowed

Are There Any Fees or Permits Required?

🤑 Fee: $5.00

🏊 Is There Swimming at South Fork Falls?

❌ Swimming is not allowed

When to Visit

spring summer fall

Spring and early summer are ideal times to visit, as the waterfall flow is typically strongest due to snowmelt and rainfall.

Seasonal Access

The best time to visit is Spring, Summer, and Fall. Winter access may be limited.

Safety Information

The trail may be slippery after rain, and visitors should exercise caution near the waterfall to avoid accidents. Cell phone reception may be limited in the area.

Know when to go.

Get a free email alert when waterfalls near Dayville hit peak flow. We only send when conditions are worth the trip — no weekly newsletters, no spam.

Weather Forecast

The Terrain, Seen by LiDAR

Aircraft-mounted lasers measured this ground to within inches. Trees and buildings are digitally stripped away, leaving the bare shape of the land the water has carved.

Through the falls the surface drops roughly 125 feet over a short, steep run of tiers. Elevation at the pin is about 3,566 feet.

The whole reach is steep: about 174 feet of descent in the 500 feet above the falls and another 73 feet in the 500 feet below. The falls face northwest and stay mostly shaded, with soft, even light all day.

Aerial photo of the same ground around South Fork Falls near Dayville, Oregon, for comparison with the lidar view

LiDAR bare-earth terrain around South Fork Falls near Dayville, Oregon, showing about 125 feet of drop, a steep tiered drop, facing northwest

Aerial LiDAR bare earth

Drag to compare. The dot marks the waterfall. The frame is about a mile across.

Ground elevation: 3,566 feet; Measured by 1-meter lidar
Drop at the falls: About 125 feet; Change in ground height within ~250 feet of the falls
Faces: Northwest; Mostly shaded, so the light stays soft and even all day.

Ground profile through the falls

A slice through the lidar ground surface, from above the falls to downstream (heading northwest).

Elevation data: USGS 3D Elevation Program. Aerial imagery: USGS The National Map. Public domain.

Location & Access

Getting There

South Fork Falls is located in the Umpqua National Forest in Oregon. Access typically involves driving on forest roads, which may be unpaved and require a high-clearance vehicle during certain seasons. Specific directions should be verified with local resources or maps.

Get Directions on Google Maps

Parking

Parking is available near the trailhead, but spaces may be limited. Visitors should plan to arrive early, especially during weekends or peak seasons.

Elevation

3,566 feet above sea level

Coordinates

44.184713° N, -119.524607° W

Land Management

Prineville Central Oregon Field Office PUB

Managed by BLM

Visitor Tips & Gear

Bring sturdy footwear, especially during wet conditions. Arrive early to secure parking and enjoy the trail without crowds. Check weather conditions before your visit, as the trail may become slippery after rain.

Where to Stay

Browse vacation cabins and private rentals nearby

Glamping Hipcamp

Unique outdoor stays — tents, yurts, and treehouses

RV Rentals Outdoorsy

Rent a campervan or RV for your waterfall road trip

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Nearby Campground

DEER CREEK GUARD STATION CABIN

10 miles away · 1 sites

Reservable

Overview Deer Creek Guard Station is located approximately 31 miles from the town of John Day, in central Oregon. It is in a beautiful, quiet location, off the beaten path. From sunup to sundown, the cabin affords opportunities for adventure in exploring, viewing wildlife, or just relaxing and enjoying the wonders of nature all around. The cabin is larger than some, is furnished and offers many comforts. It can be accessed by vehicle. Guests are responsible for their own travel arrangements and s

Book on Recreation.gov