Koberg Beach State Recreation Site offers a surprisingly secluded Columbia River beach experience just three miles east of Hood River, screened from nearby Interstate 84 by an impressive basalt rock outcrop that creates a natural barrier and peaceful atmosphere. This day-use park provides year-round free access to a sandy beach along the Columbia River where visitors can swim, picnic, windsurf, and fish against a backdrop of stunning Columbia River Gorge scenery. The large rock formation not only shields the beach from highway noise but creates a distinctive landmark and interesting geological feature to explore. A trail west of the outcrop and parking area leads to the beach where families spread out on the sand, wade in the river, and enjoy the surprisingly private feel despite the proximity to major transportation corridors. Picnic tables scattered throughout the site accommodate meals and gatherings, restrooms provide necessary facilities, and ample free parking makes access simple. The site carries historical significance as the location of a popular dance hall and outdoor resort from approximately 1915 to 1950 where Hood River residents escaped summer heat and enjoyed ballroom dancing along the Columbia River.
Swimming at Koberg Beach draws families during warm summer months when the Columbia River warms to comfortable temperatures and the protected location creates gentler conditions than windier sections of the Gorge. Windsurfing and kiteboarding opportunities exist here, though the main action concentrates at Hood River Waterfront where the Columbia River Gorge creates world-class wind conditions that earned Hood River its reputation as the windsurfing capital of the world. Fishing from the beach and shoreline rocks targets Columbia River species including bass, walleye, and various panfish, with spring and fall bringing salmon and steelhead migrations through this section of the river. The basalt outcrop provides opportunities for scrambling and exploring with caution, and the rock formations create interesting tide pools and crevices to investigate. Beach walking extends along the Columbia River shoreline, and the Columbia River Gorge National Scenic Area surroundings offer world-class scenery with Mount Hood visible to the south on clear days. Wildlife viewing includes waterfowl such as ducks, geese, and mergansers, ospreys diving for fish, bald eagles perched in riverside trees, and great blue herons stalking the shallows. The day-use park serves as a convenient stopping point for travelers on Interstate 84 wanting to stretch their legs and enjoy river access.
Hood River's waterfront dining district sits just three miles west, easily accessed from Koberg Beach. Riverside stands as the only restaurant directly on the Hood River waterfront, serving breakfast, lunch, and dinner with fine dining Italian cuisine, fresh local ingredients, an Oregon-focused wine list, and sweeping Columbia River views from indoor and outdoor seating. pFriem Family Brewers operates a contemporary angular taproom on the Columbia River waterfront featuring Belgian-inspired brewing traditions merged with Oregon's hoppy styles, serving artisan pizzas, charcuterie boards, mussels, salads, and pub fare alongside their acclaimed beers. Ferment Brewing Company offers an open airy brewpub with outdoor dining overlooking the river, handcrafted ales, and their famous fried chicken sandwich plus burgers and salads. Three Rivers Grill provides fine dining with Columbia River views from inside and deck seating, featuring Pacific Northwest cuisine including grilled salmon, steaks, pasta, and seasonal preparations. Full Sail Brewing Company combines riverside views with their pioneering craft beers, burgers, fish tacos, and brewpub classics in a casual atmosphere.
Koberg Beach lacks lifeguard services, and swimmers should exercise caution in the Columbia River where currents can be stronger than they appear, water temperatures remain cold even in summer, and boat traffic creates wakes and hazards. Children should be supervised closely around the water and never allowed to swim alone. The basalt outcrop rocks can be slippery when wet and sharp in places, requiring sturdy footwear and caution when exploring. River levels fluctuate based on dam releases upstream, and conditions can change rapidly. Windsurfers and kiteboarders should assess wind and water conditions carefully, wear appropriate safety gear including life jackets, and recognize that Hood River Waterfront offers more suitable launch sites and wind conditions for these activities. When fishing, be aware of current Oregon fishing regulations, licensing requirements, and salmon and steelhead seasons and restrictions. The park offers no camping facilities and is strictly day-use only. Watch for poison oak in vegetated areas away from the beach. Koberg Beach State Recreation Site provides convenient Columbia River access with swimming, picnicking, fishing, and windsurfing opportunities just minutes from Hood River's restaurants, breweries, and amenities, all screened from the interstate by distinctive basalt formations creating a surprisingly peaceful riverside retreat.
