Benson State Recreation Area has a small quiet lake great for water play.

Often overlooked for the nearby Multnomah Falls, we like to visit this recreation area because it’s usually pretty quiet (even on weekends!) and has huge green spaces great for running and playing. 

The lake itself is small and pretty shallow so even the smaller kids can stand near the shore and paddle around. Swimming and fishing are both allowed in the lake. No motorized boats are allowed but floaties, paddleboards, kayaks and canoes are allowed. The Oregon Department of Fish and Wildlife stocks Benson Lake with thousands of fish from March to October. There is a paved, accessible path that leads to a fishing dock on the west side of the park near the entrance. This path is lined with blackberries in the summer so bring a bucket!

There is one large covered picnic area that can be reserved for $50 for the day. The group site includes a sink, electrical outlets, water and a family sized bbq. It will not have water or electricity in the winter months. There are also many single free use picnic tables throughout the park. The park has one set of flush bathrooms open year round and there is a seasonal water fountain.

The park has a small 9 hole disc golf course that would be great for beginners or for kids to play around with. 

Entrance to this park is only accessible heading eastbound from Portland. No westbound entrance is available so if you miss the exit coming from the west, you can turn around at Multnomah Falls. 

There is a kiosk that takes credit cards only for the entrance fee. Dogs are allowed at this park on leash but not allowed in the water.