Benson State Recreation Area

Closed — The park is open for day use only. Water is off and restrooms are closed from mid-November through mid-March. Camping and overnight occupancy are not permitted.

About

Benson State Recreation Area is a day-use park situated in the scenic Columbia River Gorge, approximately 30 miles east of Portland near Corbett, Oregon. The park is named after Simon Benson, a lumber magnate, philanthropist, and principal promoter of the Historic Columbia River Highway who once owned a portion of the land. Between 1933 and 1935, the Civilian Conservation Corps remodeled the park, creating what was then known as New Benson Park. In 1939, the City of Portland donated the park to the United States Forest Service, which later transferred control to Oregon State Parks. The park is located one mile west of Multnomah Falls on Interstate 84 at milepost 30, with eastbound access only. Visitors enjoy picnicking at the park's reservable shelter, which can accommodate groups of up to 250 people. The park also features a disc golf course and scenic views of the Columbia River Gorge. Day-use hours vary seasonally: 6am to 10pm from June through August, and 6am to dusk from September through May. All vehicles require a valid day-use pass. Camping and overnight occupancy are not allowed at Benson State Recreation Area.

Directions

Located on Interstate 84 at milepost 30, one mile west of Multnomah Falls. Eastbound access only from I-84.

Nearby Campgrounds