The Deschutes River State Recreation Area is a park at the confluence of the Deschutes and Columbia rivers in the U.S. state of Oregon. It is a few miles east of The Dalles. The park offers opportunities for camping, fishing, hiking, mountain biking, and equestrian trail riding.
History The chamber of commerce in The Dalles pushed for a state park at the location beginning in 1955. After years of studies, the state acquired the first tract of land in 1963, when it purchased from the Columbia-Deschutes Power Company. In 1963, an additional were purchased from the Miller family and added to the park.
Details Deschutes River is one of 28 state parks in Oregon with year-round campgrounds although water is turned off during the winter. There are 34 campsites suitable for recreational vehicles, with electricity and water available. An additional 25 primitive sites with drinking water and facilities nearby are available. The park is along the Oregon Trail and offers a covered wagon to rent for camping.Richard, Terry. Weekend getaways / Sunny Eastern Gorge. The Oregonian, March 13, 2005. The park includes showers, mowed lawns, and wildlife viewing. Hiking and biking opportunities include a trail named for former governor Victor G. Atiyeh that runs along the Deschutes.Mapes, Jeff. Deschutes River canyon trails exhilarate cyclists; Even beginners fall in love with the spectacular vistas and challenging terrain. The Oregonian, August 6, 2000. Hunting is also available for pheasant, chukar, and Hungarian partridge during designated seasons for each.Foden-Vencil, Kristian. Off-season delights. The Oregonian, November 16, 1995. Located on the west shore of the Deschutes River, Heritage Landing boat ramp is on the opposite shore from the main access to the park, with the Lower Deschutes Wildlife Area about one mile (1.6 km) upriver.Gault, Roy. Wildlife Viewing. Statesman Journal, March 16, 2007.
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