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Ainsworth State Park

State Park near Portland, Oregon, United States
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Park Overview

Nestled in the awe-inspiring Columbia River Gorge, Ainsworth is equal parts waterfall wonderland, hiker's playground and camper's delight. Situated at the eastern end of the Historic Columbia River Highway, the park also marks the eastern end of the popular "Waterfall Corridor" that begins at  Crown Point and includes the majestic Multnomah Falls.  Latourell, Bridal Veil, Wahkeena, and Horsetail Falls are also along this route.

Seasonal Camping

Book reservations up to 6 months in advance at oregonstateparks.reserveamerica.com.

  • 40 full-hookup sites (1 is accessible to campers with disabilities)
  • Six walk-in tent sites with parking nearby
  • Hiker/biker camp area (no reservations)
  • Flush toilets
  • Firewood for sale 

Hiking

The shaded campground is the perfect jumping-off point for a hiking adventure.  Picnic tables, a plumbed restroom, and access to the  Gorge 400 Trail and Horsetail Falls (#438) trail are located along three roadside parking areas a half mile west of the campground entrance.

Know Before You Go

  • Ainsworth is near Interstate 84 and a working rail line that operates day and night.

Resources

mdi-alert-outline General advisory
mdi-white-balance-sunny Open for day use Mar 21 – Oct 31 mdi-tent Open for camping Mar 21 – Oct 31 mdi-cellphone Call for reservations: 800-452-5687
Call for info: 800-551-6949
Call for park info: 503-793-9885
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Amenities and features

Questions

mdi-help-circle-outline General

Did you know in 2012 our park participated in customer surveys?

According to a 2012 survey of park visitors:

96% of our customers describe being "very satisfied" or "satisfied" with their overall experience at Ainsworth State Park.

87% of our customers reported that they were either "very likely" or "likely" to return to Ainsworth State Park in the future.

One customer commented, "It needs no improvements really. It's awesome. My husband and I love coming here. We try to come at least once or three times a year. This is where we do most of our camping. We always meet really nice people here. The hosts are always great. Thank you very much."

When is the campground closed?

Campground is closed November 1 through Mid March

When is the campground open?

The campground is open mid March through October 31.

mdi-help-circle-outline What's Allowed

Can I fly my drone in the park?

Please call the park at 503-695-2261 for park specific rules.

Can I metal detect?

No metal detecting is permitted in the West Columbia River Gorge State Parks. 

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Can I bring my pet?

Yes! But please keep on leash at all times.  There is an off leash dog area 10 miles west of Ainsworth at Rooster Rock State Park.

mdi-help-circle-outline Day use/Special Events

How do I get a Special Use Permit?

This park requires a Special Use Permit for special events or activities. Please open the Special Use Permit application to see examples of events that need a permit.  If you have questions about whether you need a special use permit for your activity and to receive instructions on how to submit the application, please call 503-695-2261.

For more questions, review our statewide FAQ

History

A tract of 40 acres was donated in 1933 by John C. Ainsworth and his wife, Alice. Additional land was purchased in 1947 and 1966. Original picnic facilities and trails were constructed in 1935 by Civilian Conservation Corps workers. John Churchill Ainsworth (1870-1943) was a prominent Oregon businessman and banker (U. S. National Bank) in Portland. He served as chairman of the State Highway Commission 1931-1932 and was the son of Captain J. C. Ainsworth, pioneer steam-boatman and founder of the Oregon Steam Navigation Company.  

Brochures and maps

mdi-file-pdf-box Ainsworth campground map mdi-file-pdf-box Columbia Gorge Visitor Guide

Photos