Wikimedia Commons: Joshua Mauricio

Sisters State Park: Oregon's Quaint Cascade Hideaway

Both the city of Sisters and the former state park take their name from the towering Three Sisters that make up what is known as the Cascade Volcanic Arc. The series of mountains are a popular go-to spot for outdoor enthusiasts of all stripes, especially hikers and climbers. Additionally, they're none too far from other famous peaks like Mt. Bachelor and Broken Top, not to mention the world-renowned Pacific Crest Trail.

Technically speaking, Sisters State Park hasn't existed since 1983. However, travelers can still find it on Google maps and some travel guides, which creates confusion.

Initially founded in 1939 at the spot where several Native American trails met, the park was eventually donated to the neighboring Cascade Mountain community of Sisters, Oregon. Since then, it has been split into two municipal parks, situated on Whychus Creek: Sisters Creekside Campground and the Creekside Park day-use area. Both parks are within walking distance of Sisters' many restaurants, shops, and attractions. What's more, given that the town is located just outside of Bend on the east edge of the Willamette National Forest, it makes a great place to add to your itinerary if you're making a Central Oregon road trip.

If you plan such a trip, popular Oregon State Parks you might consider are The Cove Palisades, on the Deschutes River near Metolius, and points of interest like Smith Rock State Park and Tumalo State Park.

Regardless of your plan, we hope the following information helps you enjoy your stay in the Sisters area!

Sisters State Park: Day-Use Areas

Creekside is a great place to spend a mellow afternoon with friends and family, thanks to its convenient parking area and picnic tables. It's also available for large group gatherings like scout events, birthdays, business retreats, and more. A beautiful wood bridge connects the park with the campground across the creek.

Sisters Creekside Campground

RELATED: 5 Oregon Road Trips for a Weekend Getaway

Good news, campers! Sisters Creekside has all of the standard installations you'd expect to find at an established campground, like fire pits, full-hookups, and a dump station. All of your options are listed below. For more information or to make a reservation, be sure to visit the city of Sisters website.

  • Hiker/Biker Sites: If you're biking or hiking into the park from the highway or nearby Pacific Crest Trail, you'll be happy to know there are some very affordable spots set aside for you.
  • RV Sites: The campground offers both 30 and 50 amp RV sites, as well as non-hook-up slots. Additionally, there is one ADA full-hookup site available for those with handicap parking permits.
  • Tent Sites: Creekside has several dry sites perfect for tent campers but can also be reserved by RV and trailer warriors.

Not "Three Sisters Spring State Park"

For better or worse, it turns out there are several state parks out there with the name "Sisters." If you've come this way looking for Three Sisters Spring State Park, we're sorry to say that's in Florida, and we're talking Oregon. Speaking of which, you're in the wrong neck of the woods if you're interested in the headlands and sea caves of Sisters Rock State Park, which is located in Port Orford, on the Oregon Coast. Please check back with us later, as we plan to tackle those parks as soon as possible.

What's your favorite thing to do in the city of Sisters? Tell everyone what they can't miss on our Wide Open Roads Facebook!

READ MORE: John Day Fossil Beds: Explore Oregon's Vast National Park