Stretching alongside the Columbia River and just 22 miles east of Portland, Rooster Rock is a perfect place to spend a day away from the city.
When east winds rush down the Columbia Gorge at 25 to 40 mph, windsurfers descend to ride the whitecaps. Bring your windsurfing gear, or enjoy watching from the beach.
A tranquil lagoon at the west end of the park is a peaceful spot to paddle or fish for bass, steelhead and walleye beneath the park’s namesake, Rooster Rock.
Due to fluctuation in river levels, access to the clothing optional beach by foot may be limited. Check ahead: Oregon River Levels.
EV charging stations will be available soon at the main day-use parking area. Learn more
Avoid the crowds at Multnomah Falls: park at Rooster Rock and take the Columbia Gorge Express bus, managed by Columbia Area Transit.
Yes but by design, the clothing optional beach area is completely separate and not visible from the clothing-required area of the park. The two areas coexist in harmony.
According to a 2012 survey of park visitors:
92% of our customers describe being "very satisfied" or "satisfied" with their overall experience at Rooster Rock State Park.
94% of our customers reported that they were either "very likely" or "likely" to return to Rooster Rock State Park in the future.
One customer commented, "This is a lovely picnic/day park, unbelievable scenery of the river. Doesn't seem to be overcrowded/has well planned capacity. Thanks.
To pay the day-use fee, you can use cash or check at the office or booth, but please be aware that if they are closed our Fee Machine takes credit cards only.
Reservations may be made one day to nine months ahead of time. The picnic shelters and group picnic areas at Rooster Rock State Park are reservable through online reservations or by calling (800) 452-5687 (Oregon Telecommunications Relay Service 800-735-2900 for the hearing impaired), Monday through Friday, 8 a.m. to 5 p.m.
All shelters/group picnic areas have a BBQ and picnic tables. Picnic shelters A, B & C have a covered gazebo area and water and outlets for electrical. Picnic areas D & E have no shelter, water or electrical hook ups.
Rooster Rock is a day-use park. There is camping availble 10 miles east at Ainsworth State Park (exit 35).
No camping on Sand Island is allowed. There is camping available at Ainsworth State Park (east of Rooster Rock) or at Government Island (west of Rooster Rock, accessible by boat only)
Please call 503-695-2261 for park specific rules.
No metal detecting is allowed in Oregon state parks within the West Gorge.
Yes! But please pick up after your dog and have it on a leash at all times. There is an off-leash area at the west end of the park.
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.
Lands for the park were purchased from private owners between 1937 and 1985 to provide public river access and protection of the Columbia River Gorge. However, development as a park was not possible until the new highway was built at water grade in the 1950s. Rooster Rock is situated at the west end of the park. It is said to be the rock mentioned by Lewis and Clark as the camping place for members of their exploring expedition on Nov. 2, 1805.