Lewis and Clark

State Recreation Site near Portland, Oregon, United States

Park Overview

Located at the western gateway of the Columbia River Gorge, Lewis & Clark State Park is situated near the mouth of the Sandy River where it spills into the mighty Columbia River and at the west end of the Historic Columbia River Highway (Highway 30). A flat, grassy, tree-dotted park invites blankets and sun-lovers to come spend a leisurely day.

The park includes a public boat launch and is adjacent to a popular swim hole. A trail climbs the cliffs to Broughton's Bluff, which serves as a geologic boundary between the foothills of the Cascade Mountain Range and the neighboring Willamette Valley to the west. This 160' high series of cliffs provides excellent year-round rock climbing.

Know Before You Go

  • A life jacket loaner station is located along the river, with life jackets of various sizes available. Be aware of swift currents and hidden obstructions in the river. Do not swim, float, paddle or boat without a life jacket. Wearing a life jacket, and making sure it fits properly, saves lives. 
  • Boaters: check ahead for obstructions on the Oregon State Marine Board's Reported Obstructions and Alerts page.
  • Alcohol is not allowed on the beach. Alcohol is allowed in the park and picnic area.
mdi-alert-outline General advisory
mdi-white-balance-sunny Open for day use year round mdi-cellphone Call for info: 800-551-6949
Call for park info: 503-695-2261
Current Conditions Directions Feedback

Amenities and features

Questions

mdi-help-circle-outline What's Allowed

Can I bring alochol?

There is NO alcohol permitted on the Lewis and Clark Beach.  It is allowed in the park picnic areas.

Can I fly my drone in the park?

Please call 503-695-2261 for park specific rules

Can I metal detect?

No metal detecting is allowed in West Gorge Oregon State Parks

mdi-help-circle-outline Animals

Can I bring my pet?

Yes! But please have on leash at all times.  There is an off leash area behind the restroom building at the east end of the 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

The original land for this park was given to the state by Multnomah County in 1936. Later tracts were purchased from the State Land Board and private owners up to 1951. In 1961, S. H. and Ellen B. Martin gave an additional small portion. The park is named for the explorers Lewis and Clark, who on November 3, 1805, examined the Sandy River and noted the treacherous sand bar at the channel entrance. Their name, "Quicksand River," was shortened in common usage to Sandy River.

Brochures and maps

mdi-file-pdf-box Columbia Gorge Visitor Guide

Photos