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Oregon
26

Oregon State Parks

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USA Parks
Oregon
Mt. Hood and the Gorge Region
Rooster Rock State Park
Western Meadow Lark © stateparks.com
Western Meadow Lark
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Roasting hot dogs over an open fire.
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ROOSTER ROCK STATE PARK
Spring at Rooster Rock is where spring fever happens. Imagine the first warm, sunny days of spring where meadows of wild roses and the spicy scent of Oregon grape combine with an endless panorama of the Cascade mountains, blue sky and the deep blue waters of the Columbia River. During the first sunny days of spring, people suddenly call in sick at work or school. That's when our parking lot fills up!

Summers and Rooster Rock are like peas and carrots; they just go together. Three miles of sandy beaches bring out the crowds. One of the largest swimming areas near Portland serves visitors who want a natural experience. It's even more natural the farther east you go at Rooster Rock (where you?ll find one of Oregon?s two designated nude beaches). By design, the nude beach area is completely separate and not visible from the clothing-required area of the large park. The two areas coexist in harmony.

Our covered picnic shelters and tables serve families and groups of all sizes. Rooster Rock's boat ramp is located in the scenic lagoon at the base of looming Rooster Rock. You?ll find some of the best bass, steelhead and walleye fishing around here.

Fall colors blaze at Rooster Rock. For an easy hike, try the 2 mile Volkswalk trail at the east end of the park. The trails will be covered with huge maples and oaks as you take a flat hike above the Columbia River. Blacktail deer, swordgrass and mushrooms grow large in the beautiful forests and meadows along this trail.

Wintertime at Rooster Rock State Park can be challenging, but it?s paradise to those who love life on the edge. Windsurfers know this -- they come here when others stay away. When east winds barge down the Columbia Gorge at 25 to 40 mph, windsurfers come out of the woodwork to ride the whitecaps on the Columbia River. Winter wind speeds at Rooster Rock have been measured at 110 mph. In the winter, Rooster Rock becomes the gateway to winter recreation in the Gorge and the Cascades.

Vital stats:Three reservable picnic shleters and two reservable day use areas. $3 daily day-use fee or buy a 12-month permit for $25, or a 24-month permit for $40. These 1- and 2-year permits are good at all state park day-use areas.Call (503) 695-2261 or (800) 551-6949 for information. This park has a designated off-leash area for your pet. A leash no longer than 6 feet is required elsewhere in the park.
Swimming
1. Rooster Rock State Park offers a designated swimming area on the Columbia River.
2. The park's beach is popular for sunbathing and water activities during summer months.
3. Lifeguards are not provided, so swimmers must swim at their own risk.
4. Swimming conditions can vary due to river currents and changing weather patterns in Oregon.
5. There aren't any indoor or pool facilities; all swimming occurs naturally within the river environment itself.
6. The western end of Rooster Rock Beach also provides an optional clothing section for naturist bathers.

Boating
The park offers a variety of boating options for visitors. There is a boat ramp available, allowing easy access to the Columbia River where you can enjoy activities like sailing and fishing. However, it's important to note that water levels fluctuate throughout the year which may affect accessibility at times. Additionally, there are no lifeguards on duty so safety precautions should be taken when participating in any water-based activities.
Fishing
Enjoy fishing in the Columbia River, known for its Chinook salmon and steelhead trout. Also find bass and walleye here.



Picnicking
Rooster Rock State Park offers picnic tables, grills and restrooms. Picnic areas are near the beach with river views.
Bicycling
While exploring the park, be aware that bicycling is limited to paved roads and parking areas only.

Off-road biking isn't permitted due to potential damage to natural habitats.

Ensure you follow all traffic rules when cycling on these paths for your safety.

Remember, helmets are required by law in Oregon for cyclists under 16 years of age; it's recommended for everyone else too.

Be cautious during peak hours as there can be heavy vehicle traffic within the park boundaries.

Cyclists should always stay vigilant about pedestrians and wildlife crossing their path unexpectedly.

There aren't any designated bike trails or rentals available at this location currently.
Trails
1. East Trail: This is a moderate 2-mile trail that offers stunning views of the Columbia River Gorge and Rooster Rock itself.

2. West Loop Trail: A relatively easy, flat loop around the western part of the park with plenty of bird-watching opportunities along its 3 miles length.

3. Riverside Walkway: An accessible paved path running parallel to Sandy River for about half a mile; perfect for leisurely strolls or wheelchair users.

4. Forest Pathway: Winding through dense woodland areas, this one-mile long pathway provides an immersive nature experience within close proximity to picnic spots and restrooms facilities in case needed during your hike.

5. Birdwatcher's Route: As implied by its name, it's ideal for those interested in ornithology as you can spot various species throughout different seasons on this short but rewarding route which covers less than a mile distance.

6. Rooster Rock Summit Hike: It's challenging due to steep inclines over rocky terrain but rewards hikers with panoramic vistas from atop Rooster rock after covering approximately two miles uphill journey.

7. Columbia Viewpoint Track: Offering breathtaking view points overlooking Columbia river gorge,this track spans across roughly three miles featuring both gentle slopes & few strenuous sections suitable only experienced trekkers.

8. Sandy Beach Promenade: Ideal choice if looking forward relaxing walk alongside sandy beach stretch spanning just under quarter mile offering beautiful sunset views at dusk time.

9. Riverfront Nature Stroll: Easy level stroll stretching little more than half:a-mile providing ample opportunity observe local flora fauna while walking amidst serene riverside setting.

10. Picnic Area Trails: These are small interconnected trails leading towards designated picnic sites scattered all over park area allowing visitors enjoy their meals midst natural surroundings.
Birding
Birdwatchers can enjoy spotting various species like ospreys, bald eagles and red-tailed hawks. The park is home to numerous songbirds too. Waterfowl are also common along the Columbia River shoreline in winter months.

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Area Campgrounds
Portland Fairview RV Park
21401 NE Sandy Boulevard
Fairview, OR
Nearby Hotels
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Directions
1. Start by getting on I:84 E/US-30 E from SW 6th Ave and SE Martin Luther King Jr Blvd.
2. Continue driving east on I:84 for approximately 16 miles.
3. Take Exit 25 toward Rooster Rock State Park/Multnomah Falls.
4. Merge onto NE Frontage Rd and continue for about half a mile until you see signs directing you to turn right into Rooster Rock State Park.

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Oregon
26

Oregon State Parks

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