The Cove Palisades State Park

State park · Jefferson County

The Cove Palisades State Park

State park · Jefferson County

1

The Cove Palisades State Park, Culver, OR 97734

Photos

The Cove Palisades State Park by null
The Cove Palisades State Park by jomopdx (Atlas Obscura User)
The Cove Palisades State Park by Forest Service/Public Domain
The Cove Palisades State Park by Forest Service/Public Domain
The Cove Palisades State Park by McCrisa (Atlas Obscura User)
The Cove Palisades State Park by McCrisa (Atlas Obscura User)
The Cove Palisades State Park by null
The Cove Palisades State Park by null
The Cove Palisades State Park by null
The Cove Palisades State Park by null
The Cove Palisades State Park by null
The Cove Palisades State Park by null
The Cove Palisades State Park by null
The Cove Palisades State Park by null
The Cove Palisades State Park by null
The Cove Palisades State Park by null
The Cove Palisades State Park by null
The Cove Palisades State Park by null
The Cove Palisades State Park by null
The Cove Palisades State Park by null
The Cove Palisades State Park by null
The Cove Palisades State Park by null
The Cove Palisades State Park by null
The Cove Palisades State Park by null
The Cove Palisades State Park by null

Highlights

Cabins, camping, boating, hiking, and dramatic cliff and balanced rock views  

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The Cove Palisades State Park, Culver, OR 97734 Get directions

oregonstateparks.org

Information

Static Map

The Cove Palisades State Park, Culver, OR 97734 Get directions

+1 800 551 6949
oregonstateparks.org

Features

payment debit card
wheelchair accessible parking lot
wheelchair accessible entrance

Last updated

Oct 26, 2025

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The Ultimate Guide to Adventure in Oregon

"It’s rarely a good thing when wildfire consumes a protected park area. Yet when an overgrown juniper forest burnt down in Cove Palisades State Park near the Deschutes National Forest, it revealed a series of seemingly impossible balanced rocks. The slabs are perched atop cylindrical rock towers on a hillside overlooking Lake Billy Chinook to the east. The Park Service had been aware of the rocks’ presence, but had left them off maps for fear of vandals and errant climbers. After the fire, the location was no longer a secret, and park rangers are now happy to direct hikers to the rocks. They offer a fabulous view of the Metolius River. The rocks are remnants of volcanic activity in Oregon millennia ago. The rock spires were created by one volcanic eruption, while the balancing slabs on top were created by others. Because of their differing sedimentary make-up, the rocks eroded at different rates." - ATLAS_OBSCURA

https://www.atlasobscura.com/lists/adventure-oregon
View Postcard for The Cove Palisades State Park

Cheri Wright

Google
We did not stay here but did a drive thru around the whole thing. Campgrounds are dry and nothing fancy. But have hook ups in some spots. The lake is huge. It was very windy when we went and water was rough. Water was very green so not sure if that's anything to worry about. Very popular with Boaters. Beautiful canyon views.

joanne lansdown

Google
Amazing love it have been here the last 4 years will continue to go every year after my family loves it or friends love it it is our favorite thing to do every summer

Gary Currie

Google
We had never been to this gem. It was just a drive through to check it out, but wow, what an amazing surprise. Another Oregon State Park that is truly breathtaking. Looks like tons of great camping, boating, swimming when the algae is gone, and just chilling. We are definitely going back to camp. Don't let this beauty not be visited. It's 4 stars because until I camp.

lanster

Google
Absolutely love the Cove Palisades! Great park with facilities for use. Great swimming area, awesome for boating and water sports. Lots of parking, and trailer parking. The water in the summer is often warm. The down side it the amount of algae that is in the lake. Another negative is the amount of goose poop along the shore and in the picnic area. The water is often cloudy green. Huge lake with plenty of space to recreate on the water. From end to end it can take about an hour by boat.

Wendy

Google
Fantastic campground nestled in the basalt canyon, so don't expect cell service. But, you won't want to be bothered with connections with all the beauty surrounding you. Great place to unwind. Dog-friendly, but incessant barkers not well tolerated. Impressively kind & accommodating park rangers. The only fault is the narrow bridge. Should just go ahead and make it one way at a time. Too many idiots forget about their mirrors & want to play chicken with unhappy results.

Scottie McKee

Google
Beautiful area with cool views and interesting topography. Nice campgrounds with nice amenities. Ice and firewood available. Cash or written down card options for late arrivals. Staff were very friendly and went above and beyond.

Anthony F

Google
Great RV and tent camping. Great spot for dog parents (fenced in dog play area, dog friendly trails).

Michael Garcia

Google
The Cove Palisades State Park was a wonderful experience! The staff were exceptionally friendly and helpful, adding to the welcoming atmosphere. Visiting during the weekday meant the park was pleasantly quiet, providing a peaceful and relaxing escape. The tranquil environment, combined with attentive service, made it an ideal spot for a serene getaway. Highly recommend for a calm, enjoyable retreat in nature.