Save
You must be signed in to save park lists.
Your Park Lists
add New List
Add Photo
You must be signed in to add photos.
state route ranger badge
Oregon
26

Oregon State Parks

responsive menu icon
USA Parks
Oregon
Mt. Hood and the Gorge Region
Ainsworth State Park
Ainsworth State Park © Glamour Schatz / CC BY 2.0
Ainsworth State Park © Glamour Schatz / CC BY 2.0
Search
Availability
Calendars
Availability Search
AINSWORTH STATE PARK
AINSWORTH STATE PARK
17 miles E. of Troutdale
Troutdale, Oregon   97060

Phone: 503-695-2301
Toll Free: 800-551-6949
Nestled in the awe-inspiring Columbia River Gorge, Ainsworth is equal parts waterfall wonderland, hiker's playground and camper's delight.

Situated at the eastern end of Historic Highway 30, from Ainsworth to Crown Point to the west, you'll find the world's greatest concentration of high waterfalls (like Multnomah Falls).

By leaving the park on Nesmith Point trail, you'll end up with a splendid view of St. Peter's Dome, a majestic basalt monolith rising 2,000 feet above the mighty Columbia River. Hiking is definitely something you'll want to do while camping at Ainsworth State Park.

Back at the campground, you'll find 45 peaceful full-service campsites canopied in a laid-back, tree-filled setting. There are also four walk-in tent sites for a more primitive camping experience. This is a classic campground ... the smell of a campfire is your constant companion. Flush toilets, showers, a camp host, firewood and an amphitheater with interpretive programs are all here. Top it off with a roaring creek at the east end of the park, and you have all the makings for a great camping trip.
History of the Area
Ainsworth State Park is located in the Columbia River Gorge National Scenic Area, Oregon. The park has a rich history that dates back to ancient times when Native American tribes inhabited the area.

Before European settlers arrived, several indigenous tribes such as the Chinook and Multnomah lived along the Columbia River. They relied on its abundant resources for sustenance and trade.

In 1805-06, Lewis and Clark Expedition explored this region during their journey across America's western territories. Their expedition brought attention to the natural beauty of Ainsworth State Park's surroundings.

During the mid-19th century, pioneers began settling in what would become Oregon state. In 1851, Samuel Cason established a homestead near present-day Cascade Locks (near Ainsworth). This marked one of many settlements by early pioneers who sought opportunities in agriculture and logging industries within this lush landscape.

The construction of railroads played an essential role in opening up access to remote areas like Ainsworth State Park. In particular, Henry Villard's railroad company built tracks through Eagle Creek Canyon around 1882-83 which allowed easier transportation between Portland and eastern regions including Hood River Valley where fruit orchards thrived due to favorable climate conditions.

Around this time period (late 19th - early 20th centuries), tourism started growing rapidly with people flocking from nearby cities seeking respite amidst nature's wonders offered by places like Ainsworth State Park - waterfalls cascading down cliffsides into crystal-clear pools below were particularly popular attractions drawing visitors' attention year-round!

By late twentieth-century standards though it became apparent how fragile ecosystems could be threatened if not properly managed; thus efforts ensued protect these lands while still allowing public enjoyment thereof: hence designation national scenic area status granted Congress under President Ronald Reagan signed law November1986 ensuring preservation future generations enjoy too!
Camping
1. Tent Camping: There are 40 full-hookup tent sites available within the park, each equipped with water and electricity.

2. RV Camping: The campground also has spaces specifically designed to accommodate recreational vehicles (RVs). These include pull-through and back-in spots that can fit various sizes of RVs.

3. Group Campsites: For larger groups or family reunions, Ainsworth State Park provides group campsites which have picnic tables, fire pits/grills as well as restroom facilities nearby.

4. Yurts/Cabins Rental: Although not directly inside the state park itself but close by at Viento State Park & Memaloose State Parks you will find yurt rentals if you're looking for something more comfortable than traditional camping tents



Picnicking
Ainsworth State Park offers picnic tables and grills, perfect for a family outing. No reservations are needed for picnicking.
Trails
1. Gorge Trail #400: This is a 35-mile long trail that runs through the park, offering stunning views of Columbia River and various waterfalls.

2. Horsetail Falls Loop Hike: A moderate hike with an elevation gain of about 600 feet, this loop takes you past two beautiful falls - Ponytail Fall and Horsetail Fall.

3. Rock Of Ages Arch Loop Hike: An adventurous route for experienced hikers only due to its steepness and rough terrain; it offers breathtaking panoramic views from atop Hamilton Mountain's summit ridge.

4. Triple Falls via Oneonta Creek Trailhead: It's a moderately difficult trek leading up to three cascading waterfalls in one spot - hence the name 'Triple Falls'.

5. Elowah & Upper McCord Creek Trails: These trails offer scenic hikes along creekside paths culminating at impressive waterfall viewpoints.

6. Wakeena-Multnomah Loop Via Franklin Ridge: Challenging yet rewarding trail featuring several iconic Oregon sights including Wakeena Springs, Multnomah Basin Overlook etc.,.

7. Angel's Rest-Devil's Rest Figure Eight Hike: A strenuous but highly satisfying day-long hiking adventure encompassing Angel's rest viewpoint, Devil's rest peak among other attractions.

8. Larch Mountain Crater Route: Hiking path taking visitors right into ancient volcanic crater surrounded by lush greenery.

9. Pacific Crest National Scenic Long Distance Pathway Section F: The famous Pacific crest pathway passes through part of Ainsworth State Park providing opportunity for multi-day backpack trips or shorter section hikes.

10. Herman Bridge Campground To Eagle-Benson Footpath: A relatively easy going footpath ideal for family outings which also connects campgrounds within state park area.
Birding
Located in Oregon, the park offers birding enthusiasts a variety of species to observe. The dense forested area is home to birds such as owls, woodpeckers and various songbirds. Birdwatchers can explore numerous trails for optimal viewing opportunities.

Visitor Comments, Memories and Reviews
April 15 Diasappointed by Hanne
park review stars; one to five We are very disappointed that Ainsworth must now be reserved ahead of time. We have visited several times each year on the spur of the moment which is now not possible anymore. Shame on you for making us schedule our lives!
August 13 great staff by r&l from oklahoma
park review stars; one to five very very helpful with great concerne for campers needs, park is very nice, easy to get to and easy to get in and out of
February 6 A Great Place to Host by w&f
park review stars; one to five We have hosted at the Ainsworth CG before and we are looking forward to being there again in March and April 2010. Good staff to work with!
write a review
Share On

Nearby Hotels
Booking.com

Directions
1. Start by heading east on I:84 E.
2. Continue driving for approximately 30 miles until you see signs for Exit 35 toward US:30/Historic Columbia River Hwy/Bridal Veil.
3. Take this exit and merge onto NE Frontage Rd/US:30 E towards Bridal Veil/Multnomah Falls.
4. Stay on US:30 E for about 5 miles until you arrive at Ainsworth State Park.

state route ranger badge
Oregon
26

Oregon State Parks

X