When you’re looking for a little solitude, head to the spring-fed Fall River—which sits southwest of Sunriver and northwest of La Pine, surrounded on both sides by stately stands of old-growth ponderosa pine.
Fall River is most popular with anglers who enjoy fly fishing in its clear, cold waters that maintain constant flows and steady temperatures all year long. Some of the most popular species include several species of trout—such as brook, brown, and rainbow trout—and smaller whitefish.
Families, meanwhile, enjoy an up-close look at some of those species at the Fall River Hatchery. The hatchery produces rainbow trout and supplies several other species for stocking programs across Oregon. Visit between May and September to see the most possible fish.
If you’re looking to stay the night, reserve a site at Fall River Campground, which sits at a bend in the waterway. Generally open between mid-May and mid-October, the cozy campground hosts 12 sites (sans hookups) that are best suited to tent campers. Stretch your legs with a stroll on the mostly flat Fall River Trail, which departs from the campground and follows the river’s forested banks.
Wherever you go in the area, keep in mind that stretches of Fall River border private property; watch for “”No Trespassing”” signs that warn of where to avoid. If visiting between May and mid-July, bring plenty of insect repellent to keep the area’s mosquitoes at bay.
Open Season
Year-round
Dog Friendly and/or Leash Rules
Leashed dogs are permitted—but can go off-leash while swimming in the lake.
Best time to visit
Year-round
Don’t Miss
Fall River provides one of Central Oregon’s best chances to fish for brown trout before they reach the Deschutes River.
Fees or Pass Needed
None
Restrictions
The river is open only to fly fishing.
Activities
Walking
Parking
Parking is available at the Fall River Trailhead.
Directions
From Sunriver, the 12-mile drive to the Fall River Trailhead takes about 15 minutes via S. Century Drive; from La Pine, the 19-mile drive takes about 25 minutes via northbound Highway 97, Burgess Road (which becomes Pringle Falls Loop), and S. Century Drive.
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