Explore the Natural Beauty of Benson State Recreation Area
Discover the breathtaking landscapes and outdoor adventures at Benson State Recreation Area, a hidden treasure in Oregon's Columbia River Gorge.
Nestled along the stunning Columbia River Gorge, Benson State Recreation Area is a haven for nature lovers and outdoor enthusiasts. With its diverse landscapes, abundant wildlife, and breathtaking views, this state park offers an unforgettable experience for tourists seeking adventure and tranquility in Oregon's picturesque surroundings.
A brief summary to Benson State Recreation Area
- I-84, Cascade Locks, OR, 97014, US
- +1800-551-6949
- Visit website
Local tips
- Visit during spring to experience the vibrant wildflower blooms.
- Bring a camera to capture the stunning views of the Columbia River.
- Check the weather before your visit, as conditions can change rapidly in the gorge.
- Arrive early to secure a good picnic spot and enjoy the peaceful morning hours.
- Wear sturdy shoes for hiking trails that can be steep and uneven.
Getting There
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Car
If you're traveling by car, make your way to Interstate 84 (I-84). From most locations in the Cascade Mountains, you can follow local roads to reach I-84. Once on I-84, head eastbound. The Benson State Recreation Area is located just off the freeway at Cascade Locks, Oregon. Look for the exit signs for Cascade Locks (Exit 44). After exiting, follow the signs leading to the park entrance. There is no entry fee for the park, but be mindful of any parking fees if applicable.
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Public Transportation
For those using public transportation, the Columbia Gorge Express provides bus service between Portland and the Gorge, including a stop at Cascade Locks. Check the schedule ahead of time for departure times and routes. Once you arrive at the Cascade Locks stop, you can walk to Benson State Recreation Area; it's about a 10-15 minute walk from the bus stop. Please note that the bus service may have a fare (approximately $5-$10 one way), so be prepared with cash or a card for payment.
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Bicycle
If you're feeling adventurous and prefer biking, you can cycle along the Historic Columbia River Highway State Trail, which connects to Benson State Recreation Area. Starting from nearby towns like Hood River or Cascade Locks, you can enjoy scenic views along the way. Make sure to check your bike's condition and carry enough water and snacks for the trip. There are no specific costs except for potential bike rental fees if you do not have your own.
Discover more about Benson State Recreation Area
Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Multnomah Falls Lodge
0.9 km
Experience the beauty of Multnomah Falls Lodge, a serene retreat nestled in the stunning Columbia River Gorge, perfect for nature lovers and culinary enthusiasts.
Angel's Rest Trailhead
3.9 km
Discover stunning views and invigorating trails at Angel's Rest Trailhead in Oregon's breathtaking Columbia River Gorge, a must-visit for nature lovers.
Larch Mountain
6.0 km
Experience the breathtaking views and serene trails of Larch Mountain, a hidden gem in Oregon's stunning Cascade Range.
Ainsworth State Park
6.5 km
Experience the scenic wonders of Ainsworth State Park, a natural haven in the Columbia River Gorge, ideal for hiking, picnicking, and wildlife viewing.
St Peter's Dome
7.1 km
Discover St. Peter's Dome: A scenic paradise in Oregon offering breathtaking views, perfect for nature lovers and outdoor enthusiasts.
Rooster Rock Nude Beach
7.4 km
Experience the liberating atmosphere of Rooster Rock Nude Beach in Oregon, a serene public beach that embraces naturism in the heart of nature's beauty.
Latourell Falls
8.3 km
Experience the breathtaking beauty of Latourell Falls, a stunning natural landmark with easy hiking trails and mesmerizing views in Oregon's Columbia River Gorge.
Rooster Rock State Park
8.5 km
Explore Rooster Rock State Park in Oregon for stunning views, hiking trails, and scenic beaches along the Columbia River Gorge.
Upper Latourell Falls
8.8 km
Discover the breathtaking beauty of Upper Latourell Falls in the Columbia River Gorge, a serene park perfect for nature lovers and hikers alike.
Guy W. Talbot State Park
8.9 km
Experience the breathtaking landscapes and serene waterfalls at Guy W. Talbot State Park, a natural gem along Oregon's historic Columbia River Highway.
Historic Columbia River Hwy
9.4 km
Discover the Historic Columbia River Highway, a stunning scenic drive through Oregon’s breathtaking landscapes and rich cultural heritage, ideal for nature lovers and adventurers.
Crown Point State Scenic Corridor
9.9 km
Discover stunning vistas and rich history at Crown Point State Scenic Corridor, a must-see destination in Oregon's Columbia River Gorge.
Vista House at Crown Point
9.9 km
Experience breathtaking views and rich history at Vista House, a stunning landmark overlooking the Columbia River Gorge in Oregon.
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
Experience the breathtaking beauty of Wahkeena Falls in Oregon, a perfect blend of stunning waterfalls and scenic hiking trails in the Columbia River Gorge.
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
Discover the breathtaking beauty of Lower Multnomah Falls, a stunning natural attraction in Oregon's Columbia River Gorge, perfect for adventurers and nature lovers.
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
Discover the tranquil beauty of Wiesendanger Falls in Oregon's Columbia River Gorge, a hiking paradise with stunning views and serene landscapes.
Angel's Rest Lookout
2.4 km
Discover the stunning vistas of Angel's Rest Lookout in Oregon's Columbia River Gorge, a must-visit hiking destination for nature lovers and adventurers.
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 stunning beauty of Triple Falls in Oregon, where nature's splendor meets adventure in a captivating waterfall landscape.
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 historic Oneonta Tunnel in Cascade Locks, Oregon, where nature and history intertwine to create unforgettable experiences.
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.
