SPRING THING 2024 - APRIL 27TH, 2024

SPRING THING 2024 - APRIL 27TH, 2024

Our 31st Annual Smith Rock Spring Thing was our largest yet!!!

333 Volunteers completed 30 different project throughout the park on April 27th, 2024. We moved stair cases, removed invasive species, planted native plants, built new stairs, and so much more!

2024 Smith Rock Group Sponors

  • Platinum Sponsors

  • Gold Sponsors

  • Silver Sponsors

  • Bronze Sponsors

The Smith Rock Spring Thing is an annual volunteer event that takes place at Smith Rock State Park in central Oregon. It is organized by the Smith Rock Group, a non-profit organization that works to preserve and enhance the park's natural, cultural, and recreational resources.

The first Smith Rock Spring Thing event was held in 1993, and it has since become a beloved tradition for the park's climbing community and outdoor enthusiasts. The event typically takes place over a weekend in April or May and involves a variety of volunteer projects and activities, including trail maintenance, habitat restoration, and interpretive programs.

During the Spring Thing, volunteers work alongside park staff and other organizations to tackle high-priority projects that help to protect and enhance the park's unique natural beauty. Past projects have included building new trails, restoring native vegetation, and improving park facilities.

In addition to the volunteer projects, the Spring Thing also features educational programs, social events, and a celebratory BBQ for volunteers. The event is a great way for people to get involved in the park and contribute to its long-term health and vitality while also enjoying the beautiful spring weather and camaraderie of fellow outdoor enthusiasts.

Spring Thing 2023

282 Volunteers

1700+ hours of work

25 Projects

ALL IN ONE DAY

We always get excited to help the park and celebrate our community!

  • Free coffee and food in the morning prior to your project starting

  • Work on meaningful projects that help preserve the park for years to come

  • Enjoy free food and drinks along with a raffle and auction that fund our ability to buy supplies for projects to come

  • Free camping at the Smith Rock State Park Bivy the night of Spring Thing with the presentation of your parking pass (We can’t reserve camping but using your pass you get it for free!)

Our Volunteers make it all possible

  • smith rock trash pick up

    Maintenance and Clean-up

    During Spring Thing, participants engage in maintenance and clean-up activities, such as removing invasive species, repairing trails, and picking up litter. Trail maintenance is crucial for preserving visitor safety and preventing erosion, which can lead to long-term damage to the park. Additionally, picking up litter helps keep the park clean and enjoyable for all visitors.

  • Smith Rock Trail Clean up

    Conservation and Access

    Smith Rock State Park is a popular destination for rock climbers, hikers, and other outdoor enthusiasts. However, the heavy foot traffic and human impact on the delicate ecosystem of the park has raised concerns about its preservation. conservation and access. Volunteers come together to remove invasive species, repair trails, and perform other maintenance tasks. Through these efforts, the Smith Rock Spring Thing aims to preserve the natural beauty of the park and ensure its accessibility for generations to come.

By coming together the volunteers at the Smith Rock Spring Thing event help ensure that the park remains a pristine and accessible outdoor destination.

All images provided by Ian Caldwell and Mack Lambert (@mountainsforbreakfastt)