Benson State Recreation Area: A Nature Lover's Paradise

Getting There

• 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.

• 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.

• 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.