Cline Falls

Cline Falls State Scenic Viewpoint protects a scenic waterfall and canyon on the Deschutes River in central Oregon near Redmond, providing picnicking, fishing, and scenic viewing in a high desert setting. The falls, approximately 20 feet high, cascade over basalt ledges where the Deschutes River flows through a narrow rocky gorge. The 9-acre park offers shaded picnic areas under juniper and ponderosa pine, river access, and trails along the canyon rim providing views of the falls and river. Established to preserve this scenic section of the Deschutes and provide public recreation, Cline Falls demonstrates Oregon's commitment to protecting rivers and waterfalls even in the state's arid interior. The park serves as a convenient escape from summer heat and a picturesque setting for roadside recreation.

The Deschutes River and surrounding high desert environment support wildlife adapted to arid conditions. The river provides habitat for rainbow trout, brown trout, and mountain whitefish, attracting anglers and predators. River otters hunt in the stream, while mink inhabit the riparian corridor. Mule deer browse on vegetation along the river, often visible in early morning and evening. Bird species include ospreys and bald eagles fishing in the river, great blue herons along the banks, and belted kingfishers diving for fish. Canyon wrens and rock wrens nest in cliff crevices. Waterfowl including common mergansers and goldeneyes use the river. Small mammals including ground squirrels, chipmunks, and various mice are common. The river corridor provides critical habitat in the otherwise arid landscape.

Vegetation at Cline Falls reflects high desert conditions with drought-adapted trees and shrubs. Ponderosa pine and western juniper provide shade in the picnic area and along the canyon rim. The Deschutes River riparian corridor supports willows, water birch, and scattered cottonwoods that require proximity to water. Native bunchgrasses including bluebunch wheatgrass and Idaho fescue occur in drier areas. Shrubs such as sagebrush, bitterbrush, and rabbitbrush dominate the surrounding landscape. Wildflowers including balsamroot, lupine, and desert parsley bloom in spring. Riparian vegetation provides critical shading that maintains water temperatures suitable for trout. The contrast between the green riparian corridor and surrounding sagebrush landscape is striking.

Cline Falls formed where the Deschutes River encounters resistant basalt ledges, creating the 20-foot waterfall and narrow rocky gorge. The basalt was deposited by ancient lava flows from Cascade volcanoes, with subsequent erosion by the Deschutes carving through the layered rocks. The falls and canyon demonstrate the erosive power of water working on resistant volcanic rock over thousands of years. Columnar jointing visible in the basalt cliffs formed as thick lava flows cooled and contracted. The Deschutes River originates in the Cascade Range and maintains year-round flow fed by springs and snowmelt, creating a permanent water source through the high desert. The geology influences both the landscape's appearance and the character of the river, creating rapids, pools, and the waterfall that make the site scenic and provide diverse aquatic habitat.

Cline Falls experiences central Oregon's high desert climate with cold winters, hot summers, and low annual precipitation. Average temperatures range from 25°F in winter to 80°F in summer, with significant day-night temperature variations. Annual precipitation averages only 10-12 inches, concentrated in winter and spring. Summer is characterized by hot, dry, sunny conditions with intense sun exposure, making the shaded picnic area and cool river particularly appealing. Winter can bring snow and ice, though accumulation is generally moderate. Spring offers moderate temperatures and brief wildflower blooms. The Deschutes River maintains stable flows year-round due to spring sources and snowmelt from the Cascades, providing reliable water even during summer drought. Strong winds can develop, particularly during spring.

The Deschutes River corridor has been used by humans for thousands of years, with indigenous peoples including the Northern Paiute and Warm Springs tribes utilizing the river for fishing and the surrounding landscape for hunting and gathering. The waterfall and canyon served as landmarks and fishing locations. European and American exploration increased in the 19th century with fur traders, followed by homesteaders, ranchers, and irrigators who developed the region's agricultural potential. The falls were named for Dr. Cory Cline, an early settler. Irrigation development diverted Deschutes River water to transform sagebrush into farmland. Recognition of the river's scenic and recreational values led to protection efforts, with Cline Falls designated a state park to ensure public access to this scenic section. Tourism and recreation have joined agriculture as important regional activities.

Cline Falls State Scenic Viewpoint was established to preserve the waterfall and canyon while providing public recreation along the Deschutes River. Oregon State Parks developed picnic facilities, trails, and river access while maintaining the natural setting. The park has served for decades as a popular picnic destination and fishing access point, particularly for Redmond-area residents. The small park's focus on core amenities—picnicking, river access, and scenic viewing—reflects its role as a local recreational resource rather than a destination park. Over the years, facilities have been maintained and improved while preserving the park's simple, natural character. The park demonstrates how even small protected areas provide valued public access to rivers and natural features.

Cline Falls itself is the primary attraction, with the 20-foot waterfall cascading over basalt ledges into the narrow rocky gorge. Short trails along the canyon rim provide viewing opportunities and access to the river. The picnic area offers tables under juniper and pine trees, creating a shaded retreat from summer heat. Fishing for rainbow and brown trout attracts anglers, with bank access at several locations. Swimming in pools below the falls provides summer recreation, though visitors should exercise caution due to currents and submerged rocks. The canyon and river scenery offer photography opportunities. The park provides a peaceful natural setting within a short drive of Redmond, making it suitable for short visits or extended picnics.

Cline Falls State Scenic Viewpoint is located on Highway 126 approximately 4 miles west of Redmond in central Oregon. The 9-acre park features a day-use picnic area with tables, restrooms, parking, and river access trails. The park is open year-round with no entrance fee. Facilities are basic but well-maintained. The nearest services are in Redmond. Visitors should bring water and sun protection during summer when temperatures can be hot. Exercise caution near the river due to swift currents and slippery rocks. The park serves primarily as a picnic destination and fishing access point for local residents but also provides a scenic stop for travelers on Highway 126. The combination of waterfall, canyon scenery, and river access in a compact area makes the park appealing despite its small size.

Management focuses on maintaining picnic facilities, protecting riparian vegetation, preventing erosion along trails and riverbanks, and ensuring public safety near the waterfall and in the river. The riparian corridor provides critical functions in the high desert including bank stabilization, water temperature regulation through shading, and wildlife habitat. Oregon State Parks works to minimize visitor impacts while providing river access. Fishing regulations help maintain sustainable trout populations. Invasive species are monitored though the high desert environment limits some non-native plants. Water quality in the Deschutes River is generally good but is monitored regionally as irrigation withdrawals and development increase. The park's small size and local focus allow for responsive management addressing issues as they arise while maintaining a valued public recreational resource.