W.B. Nelson State Recreation Site

W.B. Nelson State Recreation Site provides river access along the Clackamas River in the Cascade foothills east of Portland. The site offers fishing access and a pleasant spot to enjoy the scenic river corridor. The park serves visitors seeking outdoor recreation close to the Portland metropolitan area.

The Clackamas River supports salmon and steelhead runs. River otters, herons, and kingfishers are common along the river. The riparian forest provides habitat for diverse wildlife. Bald eagles occasionally hunt over the water.

The park features riparian forest of Douglas fir, western red cedar, and bigleaf maple. Sword ferns and native shrubs form the understory. Willows and alders line the riverbanks. The lush vegetation reflects the wet climate.

The Clackamas River flows from the Cascade Range through volcanic and sedimentary terrain. The river has carved its canyon through these rocks. Gravel bars and pools characterize the river channel.

The area experiences a temperate climate with wet winters and dry summers. Summer temperatures are pleasant for river activities. The forested canyon provides shade and moderate temperatures.

The Clackamas River has been important to indigenous peoples and later settlers. The river provided salmon and transportation. Recreation has grown with improved access from Portland.

W.B. Nelson State Recreation Site was established to provide public access to this popular stretch of the Clackamas River. Oregon State Parks maintains facilities for fishing and day-use recreation.

Fishing for salmon and steelhead is the primary attraction. The scenic river setting provides a pleasant escape. Swimming and wading are popular in summer. The riverside forest is peaceful.

The site provides parking and river access. Day-use only. Located along the Clackamas River east of Portland via Highway 224. Open year-round during daylight hours.

The site provides fishing access while protecting riparian habitat. Catch-and-release is encouraged for wild fish. The forested buffer maintains water quality.