Dabney State Recreation Area

Dabney State Recreation Area is a relaxing and family-friendly destination, located on the beautiful Sandy River, that features easy river access and a lovely shaded picnic area.

Finally, visiting this place I had on my list for so long! Another local adventure, close to the Portland area.

This summer, my kids are asking for more destinations that include rivers, creeks, or ocean as a feature.

So based on that, I’m trying to choose places like the Dabney State Recreation area, where you can find beach access, picnic areas, and some trails or forest setting for a day full of adventures.

What to see and do

Dabney State Recreation area is located on the gorgeous Sandy River, southeast of the Stark Street Bridge on the Historic Columbia River Highway. And indeed, with features like easy river access, shaded picnic areas, and forest setting with trails, this state park is a popular destination, especially in Summer months.

Given the access to Sandy River, swimming, boating, tubing, rafting, and other water activities are easy to enjoy in this park.

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Additionally, Dabney is also a famous destination for practicing disc golf, featuring a challenging yet popular 18 hole disc course.

However, this park is not only for active recreation; if you want to have a quiet day building sandcastles or sunbathing, this is also the right place to be too! That was our case, lazy day at the beach.

Particularly during our visit, we decided to have our picnic right by the river. Still, this park offers a beautiful and shaded picnic area with grills (including one group picnic area for reservation), one of the characteristics that made this place a famous picnic spot for over 50 years.

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Last but not least, year-round, you can enjoy a nature walk and wildlife on the 2.3 miles trails system.

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Check here for more swimming or water adventures and here for hiking ideas!

Plan your trip

Main features/Amenities

• The main picnic area with shade includes BBQ grills, and it’s located near the beach.
• One reserve able picnic shelter (Reservations here).
• Includes river access ( For activities like swimming, rafting, floating, and more).
• Boat lunch area.
• Disc golf course.
• Life jacket loaner station (closed).
• Restrooms (Open with reduced services).

Important information and tips

• Location: Historic Columbia River Hwy, Corbett, OR 97019.
• Official Site.
• This park has a day-use parking fee of $5 per car. There is a Fee station at the entrance (you can also buy the annual parking pass).
• Dabney is open from 9 a.m. to 9 p.m.
• Dogs and other pets are not allowed,
• Occasional closures could happen.
• Alcohol is NOT allowed in the park or the beach.
• It can be very crowded in the summer months.
• Bring your water shoes (for rocky beaches).