Oregon / Multnomah County / Columbia River Gorge National Scenic Area / Mount Hood National Forest

Eagle Creek Overlook Group Site

Closed — Closed for the winter season. Opens May 1 and operates through September 30. Reservations available online via Recreation.gov or by calling 1-877-444-6777.

About

Eagle Creek Overlook Group Site occupies a historic forested bluff above the Columbia River in the Columbia River Gorge National Scenic Area. Developed by the Civilian Conservation Corps in the 1930s as a viewing platform for Bonneville Dam construction, the site features original CCC stonework and masonry that has stood for nearly a century. The group campground provides sweeping views of the Columbia River and the Washington side of the gorge. A covered picnic shelter serves as the centerpiece, complemented by picnic tables, campfire rings, and newly remodeled accessible flush toilets. A path from the site descends the bluff to provide direct Columbia River access. The facility accommodates up to 90 people and approximately 40 vehicles, including trailers up to 40 feet, though a train trestle with 11'6" clearance limits some access. Campers should note that Interstate 84 and active railroad tracks run nearby, creating ambient noise. The adjacent Eagle Creek Recreation Area offers picnicking, hiking, and wildlife viewing opportunities. The renowned Eagle Creek Trail, one of the Columbia Gorge's most spectacular hikes, features waterfall viewpoints including Punchbowl Falls and Tunnel Falls, with the trail carved into basalt cliffs and passing through the Mark O. Hatfield Wilderness. Bonneville Dam visitor facilities lie about a mile west, featuring sturgeon viewing ponds and interpretive displays. A section of the historic Columbia River Highway has been converted to a bike path, providing 2 miles of riding east to Cascade Locks and 4 miles west to John Yeon State Park.

Directions

From Portland: Travel east on Interstate 84 for approximately 41 miles and take exit 41 (Eagle Creek Recreation Area), just past the tunnel. At the end of the off-ramp, turn left at the stop sign, then left again at the Interstate on-ramp following signs to Overlook. Proceed under the freeway and railroad tracks to the gate. From Hood River: Travel west on I-84 and take exit 40 (Bonneville Dam), as exit 41 has no westbound exit. Turn left at the stop sign, proceed under I-84, then immediately left onto the eastbound entrance. Travel east to exit 41 and follow directions above.

Nearby Campgrounds