Visit Rooster Rock and Rooster Rock State Park
By
Sandra Kennedy
For Oregon.com
Does the rock look like a rooster? “It has not the slightest resemblance to one, but the top offers an admirable place from which to crow”, wrote pioneer, Emma H. Thompson.
Overseeing the mighty Columbia River, it looks upon windsurfers, boats, tugs and barges. This dark basalt column, “of irregular conical shape” is located on the Oregon side of the Columbia River, only 22 miles from Portland.
Rooster Rock is a part of the Rooster Rock State Park. Take a stroll along the river or access its three miles of beach. This is one of the most popular swimming areas near Portland.
The Columbia River Gorge is famed for its wild winds. As white caps swell, windsurfers ride the waves throughout the year. Multi-colored kites also “harness the wind”.
The grounds of the state park are scattered with picnic benches, tables and covered shelters for groups. Two-disc golfing is played on a grassy fairway, overseen by trees. Play structures are available for children (and adults) on a grassy knoll.
Rooster Rock State Park
Troutdale, OR
Tips: Three reservable picnic shelters and two reservable day use areas.
Seasons: Open all year.
Hours: 6am to 6pm.
Park Fees: Day use: $3
Annual day use permit: $25 (good at all state park day use areas)
*Disabled vets and active military receive free admission but must get an ID first.
Pets: This park has a designated off-leash area. Pets are not allowed on the beach.
Getting
there: I-84, 22 miles east of Portland (exit 25).
Nearby Attractions:
La Tourelle Falls
Bridal Veil Falls
Multnomah Falls & Lodge
Crown Point & Vista House
Sheppards Dell & many others!
Call for Information:
Phone: 800-551-6949
Reservations:
800-452-5687
General Information:
503-986-0707
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 A clothes-optional beach is located in an entirely separate area from the park.
Something is available for everyone who loves the outdoors, tan lines or not.
A boat ramp and dock are located at the base of Rooster Rock. A lagoon merges with the Columbia River. Kayaks and canoes explore the quiet lagoon while powerboats head for the Columbia. Fishermen enjoy catches of salmon, bass and walleyed fish.
Take a hike on the Volkswalk trail at the east end of the park. Huge oak and maple trees cover the meadow-like path above the Columbia.
 A modern ranger station is staffed to provide information and brochures. Restrooms are also available. Framed historic black and white photos illustrate a once thriving salmon cannery brimming with fish. Interpretive signs provide additional details about the history of the Rooster Rock area.
Explorers Lewis and Clark camped nearby in 1805 on their journey to the west coast. “…we encamped under a high projecting rock on the lard. Side, here the mountains leave the river on each Side. Which from the grand shute to this place is high and rugid.” (Clark, November 2, 1805)
Today, Interstate 84 buzzes with cars and trucks in the background yet Rooster Rock State Park offers a natural and spectacular setting. Its location is close to many attractions such as the old Columbia Highway 30 that oversees Rooster Rock at Crown Point’s Vista House.
This is a must see day outing with lots to “crow about” in the midst of many other scenic attractions of the Columbia River Gorge.
All photos provided by Sandra Kennedy
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