Benson State Park
Rate this placeLast Updated: December 5, 2025
Benson State Park is a beautiful park located on the banks of the Columbia River in the state of Oregon.
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Summary
The park offers stunning views of the river and the surrounding mountains, making it a popular destination for outdoor enthusiasts. Visitors to the park can enjoy a variety of activities, including hiking, fishing, and boating.
One of the main attractions of Benson State Park is the historic Columbia River Highway, which runs through the park. This scenic highway was built in the early 1900s and is considered one of the most beautiful drives in the country. Visitors can also explore the park's many trails, which offer breathtaking views of the river and the surrounding mountains.
Another popular attraction in Benson State Park is the Multnomah Falls, which is located just a short drive from the park. The falls are one of the most famous landmarks in Oregon and are a must-see for anyone visiting the area.
In addition to its natural beauty, Benson State Park has a rich history. The park was once the site of a thriving farming community, and visitors can still see many historic buildings and artifacts in the park.
The best time of year to visit Benson State Park is during the summer months, when the weather is warm and the park is bustling with activity. However, visitors can also enjoy the park's beauty during the fall and winter months, when the leaves change color and the snow-capped mountains make for a stunning backdrop.
Overall, Benson State Park is a must-see destination for anyone visiting Oregon. With its natural beauty, rich history, and variety of activities, there is something for everyone to enjoy in this beautiful park.
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Park & Land Designation Reference
Large protected natural areas managed by the federal government to preserve significant landscapes, ecosystems, and cultural resources; recreation is allowed but conservation is the priority.
State Park
Public natural or recreational areas managed by a state government, typically smaller than national parks and focused on regional natural features, recreation, and education.
Local Park
Community-level parks managed by cities or counties, emphasizing recreation, playgrounds, sports, and green space close to populated areas.
Wilderness Area
The highest level of land protection in the U.S.; designated areas where nature is left essentially untouched, with no roads, structures, or motorized access permitted.
National Recreation Area
Areas set aside primarily for outdoor recreation (boating, hiking, fishing), often around reservoirs, rivers, or scenic landscapes; may allow more development.
National Conservation Area (BLM)
BLM-managed areas with special ecological, cultural, or scientific value; more protection than typical BLM land but less strict than Wilderness Areas.
State Forest
State-managed forests focused on habitat, watershed, recreation, and sustainable timber harvest.
National Forest
Federally managed lands focused on multiple use—recreation, wildlife habitat, watershed protection, and resource extraction (like timber)—unlike the stricter protections of national parks.
Wilderness
A protected area set aside to conserve specific resources—such as wildlife, habitats, or scientific features—with regulations varying widely depending on the managing agency and purpose.
Bureau of Land Management (BLM) Land
Vast federal lands managed for mixed use—recreation, grazing, mining, conservation—with fewer restrictions than national parks or forests.
Related References
Area Campgrounds
| Location | Reservations | Toilets |
|---|---|---|
Ainsworth State Park
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Ainsworth Campground
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Woodard Creek Campground
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Beacon Rock Moorage Camp
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Beacon Rock State Park
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Equestrian Camp
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Benson State Recreationa Area
Columbia Falls Natural Area Preserve
Dalton Point Recreation Site
Franz Lake National Wildlife Refuge
Ainsworth State Park