Celilo Park and Celilo Falls Historic Site
A scenic park on the Columbia River, famous for windsurfing and the historic Celilo Falls site, offering camping and recreation.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Milder winds, fewer crowds
Celilo Park and Celilo Falls Historic Site
Best Time
Milder winds, fewer crowds
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A scenic park on the Columbia River, famous for windsurfing and the historic Celilo Falls site, offering camping and recreation.
"Gorgeous park with insane winds, but still worth it for the views and windsurfers!"
🌬️ Wind Gear Up!
Expect strong winds; bring layers and secure loose items.
🐾 Cat Care
Be mindful of the resident cats; keep dogs leashed and consider bringing cat food.
Quick Facts
Hours
Rating
4.3 · 671 reviews
Type
Park
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Celilo Falls Overlook
Near the historic site marker
Witness the powerful remnants of Celilo Falls, a historically significant fishing site for Native American tribes.
Windsurfing Spectacle
Columbia River shoreline
Watch skilled windsurfers and kiteboarders harness the Columbia River's famous winds for thrilling aerial displays.
Cat Colony
Near the water's edge
Observe the colony of friendly cats that have made the park their home; visitors often bring food to share.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Embrace the Wind and Wildlife
Camping and Day Use
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
Celilo Falls, now gone, before and after, I believe this is Nick Zentner photo from CWU
Just East of The Dalles Oregon between Biggs jct. from moody road
🌬️ Wind Gear Up!
Expect strong winds; bring layers and secure loose items.
🐾 Cat Care
Be mindful of the resident cats; keep dogs leashed and consider bringing cat food.
⛺ Camping Options
Day and overnight camping available. Tents can be pitched on grassy areas.
🎣 Boat Launch Access
A nice boat launch is available for anglers and water sports enthusiasts.
Tips
from all over the internet
🌬️ Wind Gear Up!
Expect strong winds; bring layers and secure loose items.
🐾 Cat Care
Be mindful of the resident cats; keep dogs leashed and consider bringing cat food.
⛺ Camping Options
Day and overnight camping available. Tents can be pitched on grassy areas.
🎣 Boat Launch Access
A nice boat launch is available for anglers and water sports enthusiasts.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Celilo Park is a free, scenic spot on the Columbia River, praised for its windsurfing views, picnic areas, and boat launch. Visitors appreciate the convenience for day trips and camping, though some note the strong winds and the presence of a stray cat colony, with some suggesting bringing food for them.
"Big parking lot surrounded by a park (3 sides). Free 7 days. 3 bathroom houses, No showers. Showers are in the tribal section. Kids play area, trails (short). Picnic tables around and on the beach. Boat launch."
Susie Ingle
"This is a gorgeous park to camp at. We had insane winds come and go but it was still worth it. Day camping and overnight camping are separate. They have full restrooms, boat launch and a playground. Oh and lots of wind surfers to watch!"
Tia Billings
"The view was lovely. However, my mood was a bit depressed seeing the cat & kitten colony. Apparently, someone just dropped them off! So far, I've counted more than 7. At night, they just looked at the parking lot like they were waiting for their owner to pick them up.
Please be mindful of the cats and keep your dogs on a leash, or at least away from the cat designated blackberry bushes by the water.
If you can, bring some cat food."
Sayoni Green
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Celilo Park is located just east of The Dalles, Oregon, accessible via Moody Road from Biggs Junction.
Yes, it's situated between Biggs Junction and The Dalles, making it a convenient stop.
Driving is the most practical way to reach Celilo Park, offering ample parking.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
No, Celilo Park is free to enter and use seven days a week.
While not explicitly stated, it's wise to check with park management for advance booking, especially during peak season.
The park is generally open daily, but specific hours for facilities like restrooms might vary.
🎫 🏞️ Onsite Experience
Enjoy picnicking, short trails, watching windsurfers, and observing the resident cat colony. There's also a playground and a boat launch.
Yes, there are full restrooms available. Showers are located in the tribal section.
Absolutely! It features a playground, picnic areas, and open spaces for kids to enjoy.
Yes, both day camping and overnight camping are permitted. Tents can be set up on grassy areas.
Celilo Falls was historically a vital fishing site for Native American tribes and a crucial part of their culture and sustenance.
📸 📸 Photography
Capture the dramatic Columbia River, windsurfers in action, the unique cat colony, and the historical markers of Celilo Falls.
The expansive river views and the rugged terrain offer excellent opportunities for landscape photographers.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit