Benson State Recreation Area: A Nature Lover's Paradise
Discover the serene beauty of Benson State Recreation Area, a stunning retreat in the Columbia River Gorge, perfect for outdoor adventures and nature lovers alike.
Nestled along the scenic Columbia River Gorge, Benson State Recreation Area offers breathtaking views, lush landscapes, and a variety of outdoor activities. This serene park is perfect for hiking, picnicking, and wildlife observation, making it an ideal destination for tourists seeking a tranquil escape into nature.
A brief summary to Benson State Recreation Area
- I-84, Cascade Locks, OR, 97014, US
- +1800-551-6949
- Visit website
Local tips
- Visit during the early morning or late afternoon for the best light and fewer crowds.
- Bring a camera to capture the stunning views, especially at the viewpoints along the trails.
- Pack a picnic and enjoy it at one of the designated picnic areas for a relaxing lunch in nature.
- Dress in layers, as the weather can change quickly in the Gorge.
- Check for any seasonal events or educational programs offered in the park for a more enriching experience.
Getting There
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Car
From Corvallis, take Highway 34 east for approximately 20 miles until you reach I-5. Merge onto I-5 North towards Portland. Continue on I-5 North for about 30 miles, then take exit 302A to merge onto I-84 East toward The Dalles. Follow I-84 for about 50 miles until you reach the exit for Cascade Locks (Exit 44). Take this exit and turn left onto Bridge of the Gods. After crossing the bridge, turn right onto Highway 30. Continue for about 2 miles, and you will find Benson State Recreation Area on your left.
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Public Transportation
To reach Benson State Recreation Area using public transportation, take the Corvallis Transit System bus to Albany Transit Station. From Albany, transfer to a Greyhound or Amtrak bus heading towards Portland. Disembark at the Cascade Locks stop. From there, you can use a rideshare service or taxi to reach the park, which is approximately 2 miles away. Be sure to check the bus schedules in advance as they may vary.
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Biking
If you prefer biking, you can start from Corvallis and take the scenic route through the Willamette Valley, following local roads to connect to Highway 34. Once you reach Highway 30, follow it east toward Cascade Locks. The ride is approximately 55 miles and offers beautiful views, but prepare for a long trip and ensure you have proper gear and supplies.
Discover more about Benson State Recreation Area
Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Multnomah Falls Lodge
0.9 km
Experience the breathtaking beauty and hospitality of Multnomah Falls Lodge in Oregon's stunning Columbia River Gorge.
Angel's Rest Trailhead
3.9 km
Experience the breathtaking views and natural beauty at Angel's Rest Trailhead in the Columbia River Gorge, a hiker's paradise in Oregon.
Larch Mountain
6.0 km
Experience the breathtaking views and serene beauty of Larch Mountain, a premier destination for outdoor enthusiasts in Oregon's Cascade Range.
Ainsworth State Park
6.5 km
Discover the breathtaking landscapes and waterfalls of Ainsworth State Park in the Columbia River Gorge, a must-visit for nature lovers and outdoor enthusiasts.
St Peter's Dome
7.1 km
Discover breathtaking panoramic views and serene nature at St Peter's Dome, a scenic spot in Oregon perfect for outdoor enthusiasts and nature lovers.
Rooster Rock Nude Beach
7.4 km
Experience the liberating beauty of Rooster Rock Nude Beach, a unique clothing-optional paradise nestled in Oregon's stunning Columbia River Gorge.
Latourell Falls
8.3 km
Experience the stunning beauty of Latourell Falls, a natural wonder in the Columbia River Gorge, perfect for hiking and breathtaking photography.
Rooster Rock State Park
8.5 km
Experience stunning views and outdoor adventures at Rooster Rock State Park, a true gem in the Columbia River Gorge of Oregon.
Upper Latourell Falls
8.8 km
Experience the stunning beauty of Upper Latourell Falls in Oregon, a breathtaking natural wonder and perfect hiking destination for nature lovers.
Guy W. Talbot State Park
8.9 km
Experience the breathtaking landscapes and cascading waterfalls of Guy W. Talbot State Park, a true Oregon treasure along the Columbia River.
Historic Columbia River Hwy
9.4 km
Explore the Historic Columbia River Highway – a scenic wonder offering breathtaking views, stunning waterfalls, and a rich tapestry of Oregon's history.
Crown Point State Scenic Corridor
9.9 km
Experience the breathtaking views and rich history of Crown Point State Scenic Corridor in the stunning Columbia River Gorge of Oregon.
Vista House at Crown Point
9.9 km
Discover breathtaking views and rich history at Vista House, a stunning historical landmark in the heart of the Columbia River Gorge.
Columbia Gorge - view point
9.9 km
Discover the stunning vistas and historical significance of Columbia Gorge Viewpoint, a breathtaking landmark in Oregon's natural wonderland.
WA State Historical Marker - Beacon Rock
10.2 km
Explore Beacon Rock, a historic landmark in Washington, offering breathtaking views and a glimpse into the region's natural and cultural history.
Unmissable attractions to see
Wahkeena Falls
0.4 km
Discover the breathtaking beauty of Wahkeena Falls, a stunning natural wonder in the heart of the Columbia River Gorge, perfect for hiking and nature lovers.
Fairy Falls
0.8 km
Explore Fairy Falls in the stunning Columbia River Gorge, a picturesque waterfall offering breathtaking views and serene nature trails.
Multnomah Falls
0.9 km
Experience the breathtaking beauty of Multnomah Falls, Oregon's iconic waterfall, surrounded by lush landscapes and rich history.
Multnomah Falls Recreation Area
0.9 km
Experience the breathtaking beauty of Multnomah Falls, a stunning waterfall and recreation area nestled in Oregon's Columbia River Gorge.
Lower Multnomah Falls
1.0 km
Explore the breathtaking Lower Multnomah Falls, a scenic gem in the Columbia River Gorge, perfect for hiking and immersing in nature's beauty.
Columbia River Gorge Scenic Area
1.2 km
Explore the stunning Columbia River Gorge Scenic Area, where breathtaking waterfalls and vibrant landscapes await your discovery in the heart of Oregon.
Lobster Claw view point
1.3 km
Discover the stunning Lobster Claw View Point, a must-visit destination in Oregon for breathtaking views of the Columbia River and mesmerizing landscapes.
Wiesendanger Falls
1.7 km
Explore the natural beauty of Wiesendanger Falls, a stunning hiking destination in the heart of Oregon's Columbia River Gorge.
Angel's Rest Lookout
2.4 km
Discover the stunning vistas and invigorating trails at Angel's Rest Lookout in the Columbia River Gorge—an essential destination for nature lovers.
St. Cloud
3.1 km
Discover the tranquility of St. Cloud in the Columbia River Gorge, a stunning park perfect for hiking, picnicking, and scenic views.
Oneonta Trailhead
4.0 km
Explore the stunning landscapes and trails at Oneonta Trailhead, a premier hiking destination in Oregon's scenic Columbia River Gorge.
Triple Falls
4.4 km
Experience the breathtaking beauty of Triple Falls, a must-see natural wonder in Oregon's lush wilderness, perfect for nature lovers and adventurers alike.
Oneonta Gorge
4.4 km
Experience the enchanting beauty of Oneonta Gorge, a hidden gem in Oregon's Columbia River Gorge, perfect for nature lovers and adventure seekers.
Upper Oneonta Falls
4.4 km
Explore the enchanting Upper Oneonta Falls in Cascade Locks, Oregon, where nature's beauty meets tranquility in the heart of the Pacific Northwest.
Oneonta Tunnel
4.4 km
Discover the enchanting Oneonta Tunnel in Cascade Locks, Oregon, a historic marvel surrounded by the breathtaking beauty of the Columbia River Gorge.
Essential places to dine
Riverview Restaurant
19.5 km
Experience exquisite Pacific Northwestern cuisine with Asian influences at Riverview Restaurant, where culinary artistry meets stunning river views.
Sugarpine Drive-In
19.9 km
Discover delightful American cuisine and irresistible ice cream at Sugarpine Drive-In, Troutdale's sweetest destination along the Columbia River Highway.
Brigham Fish Market
20.5 km
Discover fresh seafood delights at Brigham Fish Market in Cascade Locks - where local flavors meet stunning river views.
Thunder Island Brewing Co
20.5 km
Discover craft beer excellence at Thunder Island Brewing Co in Cascade Locks - where scenic views meet exceptional brews.
Cascade Dining Room
21.2 km
Experience American cuisine amidst breathtaking views at Cascade Dining Room in Skamania Lodge, Columbia River Gorge's culinary gem.
River Rock
21.2 km
Experience American cuisine with breathtaking views at River Rock in Stevenson, WA - perfect for food lovers and nature enthusiasts alike.
Ivy Bear Pizzeria
22.3 km
Experience the best pizza in Sandy, Oregon at Ivy Bear Pizzeria - where fresh ingredients meet local charm.
Big River Grill
23.1 km
Experience delicious American cuisine at Big River Grill in Stevenson, WA – where local flavors meet hearty comfort food.
Nicholas Restaurant - Lebanese & Mediterranean Cuisine
25.1 km
Savor authentic Lebanese & Mediterranean cuisine at Nicholas Restaurant in Gresham - where every bite tells a story.
Rendezvous Grill
27.8 km
Discover the taste of Oregon at Rendezvous Grill – where delicious grilled dishes meet cozy ambiance in beautiful Welches.
Koya Kitchen
28.4 km
Discover Koya Kitchen in Welches, Oregon – where authentic Japanese flavors meet creative Asian fusion in an inviting atmosphere.
Mogul Mountain Pizza
28.7 km
Discover gourmet pizzas at Mogul Mountain Pizza in Welches, Oregon - your destination for delicious flavors amidst stunning natural beauty.
Barlow Trail Roadhouse
29.4 km
Discover family-friendly dining at Barlow Trail Roadhouse in Welches, OR - where hearty breakfasts meet rustic charm and local legends.
Altitude
29.5 km
Discover Altitude in Welches, Oregon – where American flavors meet breathtaking mountain views in a cozy restaurant setting.
Zigzag Mountain Cafe
29.7 km
Discover the charm of Zigzag Mountain Cafe – where hearty breakfasts meet breathtaking mountain views in Rhododendron, Oregon.
Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
Spruce Gifts and Provisions
14.8 km
Discover the charm of Cascade Locks at Spruce Gifts and Provisions, your go-to spot for unique local gifts and artisan treats.
Bridge of the Gods
20.1 km
Discover the breathtaking Bridge of the Gods, a historic landmark offering stunning views and rich cultural heritage in the heart of the Columbia River Gorge.
Bridgeside
20.3 km
Experience the best of American cuisine at Bridgeside in Cascade Locks, where local flavors meet breathtaking scenic views.
Columbia Gorge Outlets
20.6 km
Shop a variety of brands at Columbia Gorge Outlets while enjoying breathtaking views of the Columbia River Gorge in Oregon.
Columbia Factory Store
20.6 km
Discover unbeatable deals on premium outdoor apparel at Columbia Factory Store in Troutdale, Oregon – the ultimate destination for adventure seekers.
Pendleton
20.6 km
Discover Pendleton, Oregon - a shopper's paradise for unique clothing and home goods inspired by Native American heritage.
Bike the Gorge
20.6 km
Explore the stunning Columbia River Gorge with Bike the Gorge - your gateway to cycling adventures in Oregon's breathtaking landscapes.
Rocky Mountain Chocolate Factory
20.6 km
Discover a delightful world of handcrafted chocolates and sweets at the Rocky Mountain Chocolate Factory in Oregon. Perfect for gifts and personal indulgence.
Columbia Market
20.7 km
Discover local flavors and fresh produce in the heart of Cascade Locks at Columbia Market, your go-to grocery store for all your needs.
Artistree NW
20.7 km
Explore Artistree NW in Troutdale, OR – a charming gift shop filled with unique, handcrafted treasures celebrating local artistry and craftsmanship.
Eastwind Drive-In
20.8 km
Experience the perfect blend of classic American fast food and irresistible ice cream at Eastwind Drive-In in scenic Cascade Locks.
McMenamins Edgefield Gift Shop & Espresso Bar
22.1 km
Discover unique local gifts and savor delicious coffee at McMenamins Edgefield Gift Shop & Espresso Bar in scenic Troutdale, Oregon.
Next Adventure Sandy Outdoor Store
22.8 km
Your ultimate destination for outdoor gear and adventure in Sandy, Oregon – from camping to skiing, we have it all!
Bloomsbury of Kanaka Creek Farm
23.0 km
Experience the beauty of Bloomsbury of Kanaka Creek Farm, a florist and women's clothing store in Stevenson, WA, where nature meets style.
Gresham Station
25.6 km
Discover Gresham Station, Oregon's vibrant shopping mall filled with diverse retail stores, delicious dining, and exciting entertainment for all ages.
Essential bars & hidden hideouts
Cascade Locks Ale House
20.6 km
Discover the Cascade Locks Ale House, where local brews meet stunning views in the heart of the Columbia River Gorge.
Gorges Beer Co.
20.8 km
Discover the best of Cascade Locks at Gorges Beer Co., where exquisite craft beers meet delicious local cuisine in a stunning riverside setting.
The Beer Den
22.6 km
Experience the best of local brews at The Beer Den, Sandy's cozy pub with an inviting atmosphere and a fantastic selection of craft beers.
No Place Saloon
22.6 km
Discover the lively atmosphere of No Place Saloon in Sandy, Oregon, where good drinks and great entertainment come together for an unforgettable experience.
Rock Creek Tavern
22.8 km
Discover Rock Creek Tavern, a welcoming bar in Stevenson, WA, offering a vibrant atmosphere, local drinks, and a chance to connect with the community.
Scooter's Restaurant & Sports Bar
22.9 km
Experience the perfect blend of delicious grilled fare and lively sports ambiance at Scooter's Restaurant & Sports Bar in Sandy, Oregon.
Walking Man Brewing
22.9 km
Experience the art of craft brewing at Walking Man Brewing, a must-visit destination for beer and pizza lovers in Stevenson, WA.
Red Bluff Tap House
23.0 km
Discover the flavors of Stevenson at Red Bluff Tap House – a must-visit gastropub featuring local cuisine and a vibrant craft beer selection.
Cascade Locks / Portland East KOA Holiday
23.2 km
Discover the Ultimate Camping Experience in the Heart of the Columbia River Gorge at Cascade Locks / Portland East KOA Holiday.
Whistle Stop
27.5 km
Discover the charm of Whistle Stop in Welches, Oregon - a grill and breakfast restaurant offering delicious meals in a cozy ambiance.
Pub 26
27.9 km
Discover the unique charm of Pub 26 in Welches, Oregon, where craft beers and hearty meals meet a cozy mountain ambiance for an unforgettable experience.
Bungalow Bar & Grill
29.0 km
Discover the charm of Bungalow Bar & Grill, your go-to spot for local brews and hearty meals in Carson, Washington.
Backwoods Brewing Company
29.3 km
Experience the best of local craft brews and delicious American cuisine at Backwoods Brewing Company in scenic Carson, WA.
Ratskeller
42.0 km
Experience the charm of Ratskeller in Government Camp, where great food meets a cozy atmosphere, perfect for unwinding after your mountain adventures.
Ram's Head Bar
42.5 km
Discover the rustic charm of Ram's Head Bar in Government Camp, a welcoming spot for food, drinks, and mountain tales after your adventures.
