Opportunity knocking? Silver Falls seeking proposals to operate properties

Oregon Parks and Recreation Department (OPRD) is seeking proposals to operate Smith Creek Village retreat center, South Falls Café and two historic ranches at Silver Falls State Park.

“Silver Falls is one of the crown jewels of the park system, and this is an incredible opportunity to be a part of this breath-taking destination,” said Willamette Valley District Manager Sarah Steele.

The park is one of the most popular in the state with an estimated 1.5 million day-use visits per year and features the nationally recognized Trail of Ten Falls.

In 2021, OPRD signed an agreement with Silver Falls Hospitality to run two services - Smith Creek Village and the historic ranches - and a separate agreement with Oregon Commission for the Blind to run South Falls Café. Both contracts will expire at the end of October, prompting a new request for proposals. The new 10-year contract will include all three business opportunities.

The opportunity includes:

Smith Creek Village, a retreat at the south end of the park with a restaurant, dining area, and lodging including 13 individual cabins and four group overnight lodges as well as outdoor event space, historic buildings, meeting areas and a commercial kitchen.

South Falls Café, a popular café near the trailhead for the Trail of Ten Falls with a full kitchen and indoor and patio space at the South Falls Lodge. Concession services at the South Falls Café currently include casual dining, food to go, and snacks for picnicking and hiking.

The Davidson Ranch and the Foothills Ranch, two large overnight facilities with commercial kitchens for private retreats and group lodging for weddings and other gatherings.

OPRD is looking for a business or individual to run all three opportunities. The deadline to apply is Aug. 30.

Silver Falls is expected to see continued growth with work now underway to develop the North Gateway: a new campground, visitor center and park improvements slated to open in 2026.

The park offers everything from camping, hiking and biking to picnicking, horseback riding and wildlife viewing. Several of the park’s structures date back to the Civilian Conservation Corps established in 1933. The architecture features the now-iconic look of stone facades and timber beams seen at Silver Falls Lodge.

Those who are interested in learning more can contact Contract Specialist Winona Butler at or go OPRD’s website at https://www.oregon.gov/oprd/AO/Pages/AU-business.aspx and click on the Silver Falls Concession Opportunity. The deadline to apply is Aug. 30, 2024.