Government Island State Recreation Area

Rate this place

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

Government Island State Recreation Area is a beautiful destination located on an island in the Columbia River, just a short drive from Portland, Oregon.


°F

°F

mph

Wind

%

Humidity

Summary

The park is known for its scenic views of the river and its hiking trails. Visitors can take advantage of the park's boat ramp and enjoy water sports like fishing, kayaking, and boating.

One of the main attractions at Government Island State Recreation Area is the scenic hiking trail that takes visitors on a loop around the island, offering breathtaking views of the river and the surrounding area. The trail is moderately difficult, but visitors will be rewarded with stunning views of the river and the surrounding mountains.

Another popular activity at Government Island State Recreation Area is wildlife viewing. The park is home to a variety of bird species, including eagles, ospreys, and herons, as well as other wildlife like deer and beavers.

Interesting facts about the area include that it is a former site of a prison farm and has been turned into a recreational area with the help of the Civilian Conservation Corps in the 1930s. Additionally, the island is home to rare plant species such as the Oregon white oak.

The best time of year to visit Government Island State Recreation Area is during the summer months when the weather is warm and visitors can take advantage of water sports and hiking trails. However, the park is open year-round and offers a unique winter hiking experience.

In summary, Government Island State Recreation Area is a beautiful destination that offers a variety of outdoor activities, including hiking, boating, and wildlife viewing. With stunning views of the Columbia River and unique historical and environmental features, it's a must-visit for nature lovers and outdoor enthusiasts.

       

Weather Forecast

Park & Land Designation Reference

National Park
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
View more

Featured Parks