Copyright: Oregon State Parks Boating and swimming in Rooster Rock State Park

Description - Spring at Rooster Rock is where spring fever happens. Imagine the first warm, sunny days of spring where meadows of wild roses and the spicy scent of Oregon grape combine with an endless panorama of the Cascade mountains, blue sky and the deep blue waters of the Columbia River.

Attractions - Rooster Rock features a large beach, a boat ramp and basin on the Columbia River, a nature trail with exhibits, a clothing optional beach and a group picnic area.

Three miles of sandy beaches bring out the crowds in the summer. One of the largest swimming areas near Portland serves visitors who want a natural experience. It's even more natural the further east you go at Rooster Rock (where you'll find one of Oregon's two designated nude beaches). By design, the nude beach area is completely separate and not visible from the clothing-required area of the large park. The two areas coexist in harmony.

Fall colors blaze at Rooster Rock. For an easy hike, try the 2 mile Volkswalk trail at the east end of the park. The trails will be covered with huge maples and oaks as you take a flat hike above the Columbia River. Blacktail deer, swordgrass and mushrooms grow large in the beautiful forests and meadows along this trail.

Wintertime at Rooster Rock State Park can be challenging, but it's paradise to those who love life on the edge. Windsurfers know this -- they come here when others stay away. When east winds barge down the Columbia Gorge at 25 to 40 mph, windsurfers come out of the woodwork to ride the whitecaps on the Columbia River. Winter wind speeds at Rooster Rock have been measured at 110 mph. In the winter, Rooster Rock becomes the gateway to winter recreation in the Gorge and the Cascades.

Vital stats: a small day use fee or an annual pass is required for use of the park.

Recreation - Rooster Rock State Park offers visitors picnicking, wildlife watching, bird watching, boating fishing, windsurfing, swimming , hiking and special events.

Climate - Climate in this region changes drastically with elevation. The area receives a high amount of precipitation. Much of the precipitation comes from October to April in the form of rain at the low elevations and as heavy snow in the higher elevations. Winter temperatures are normally cool at the lower elevations and cold at the higher elevations. Although snow is possible in the lowest elevations, it is infrequent and does not stay on the ground for long. Late spring, summer and early autumn bring the best chance for clear, sunny days and bring moderate temperatures.

Location - Rooster Rock State Park is located on I-84, 22 miles east of Portland (exit 25).

LAT: 45.5445639
LONG: -122.2359232