Calling all hospitality mavens and retreat enthusiasts! Oregon Parks and Recreation Department (OPRD) is officially on the lookout for a new custodian to helm the food and lodging concessions at Silver Falls State Park. In an opportunity that might just be as refreshing as the park's natural mist, OPRD is seeking proposals to run Smith Creek Village retreat center, South Falls Café, and a pair of historic ranch accomodations nestled within one of Oregon's most treasured outdoor locales.
Described by Willamette Valley District Manager Sarah Steele on OPRD News as “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,” Silver Falls beckons over 1.5 million visitors annually to soak in scenes along its nationally recognized Trail of Ten Falls. As current contracts with Silver Falls Hospitality and the Oregon Commission for the Blind are set to end this October, OPRD's announcement opens a path for a new decade-long stewardship over these iconic services.
The trio of venues up for the taking include Smith Creek Village with its restaurant, dining area, and various lodging options; South Falls Café that boasts a full kitchen and a setting ripe for trail-goers seeking refuel; and the Davidson Ranch alongside the Foothills Ranch, large overnight havens equipped with commercial kitchens, perfect for weddings and grand gatherings.
To enhance the park's history, interested parties can apply until August 30. To entice them, OPRD is hosting open house sessions on August 16 and 17 where they can gain a close-up view of the operation. In the tradition of good old-fashioned hospitality, registration is required. To reserve a space, send Winona Butler a quick email by August 14. It's a perfect opportunity for candidates to picture themselves interacting with park visitors in the future, surrounded by Silver Fall's historic CCC-era architecture and planned park enhancements, such as the North Gateway, which is scheduled to open in 2026 and is expected to include a new visitor center and campsite.
For more details, slip an email Butler's way and mark your calendars.
