PORTLAND, Ore. – In a significant move poised to enhance public access to iconic Oregon landscapes and bolster critical conservation efforts, the Oregon Parks and Recreation Department announced on March 10, 2025, the successful acquisition of a pivotal 520-acre parcel located near the community of Rufus.
Situated strategically at the confluence of the majestic Deschutes and Columbia Rivers, this newly acquired land is designated for the future Cascadia Riverside State Park, marking a key milestone in the state’s ongoing commitment to expanding its park system and protecting natural resources.
The $40.5 million acquisition represents a substantial investment in Oregon’s natural heritage. The funding for this critical land purchase was secured through a combination of federal and state resources, highlighting a collaborative approach to conservation finance. A significant $28.5 million grant was awarded from the federal Land and Water Conservation Fund, a program vital for protecting land and water resources across the United States. This federal contribution was substantially supplemented by $12 million from Oregon’s voter-approved Measure E Bond, which was passed by voters in November 2024. The success of Measure E underscores strong public support within Oregon for dedicating resources towards parks, recreation, and conservation initiatives.
Funding the Vision
The $40.5 million price tag reflects the strategic importance and ecological value of the acquired property. The $28.5 million grant from the Land and Water Conservation Fund is a testament to the national significance of this land for both ecological preservation and potential recreational benefits. The federal fund, supported by offshore oil and gas revenues, provides matching grants to states for park and open space projects. Oregon’s ability to secure such a substantial grant signals strong alignment with federal conservation priorities.
Complementing this federal support, the $12 million allocation from the voter-approved Measure E Bond demonstrates decisive action at the state level. Measure E, which received voter approval in November 2024, was designed to provide dedicated funding streams for state parks, trails, and natural area acquisitions. The use of Measure E funds for the Cascadia Riverside State Park acquisition fulfills a key promise made to voters regarding the bond’s intended impact. The combined federal and state funding mechanism proved essential in finalizing the complex transaction, allowing Oregon to secure this high-priority parcel.
Strategic Location and Ecological Value
The 520-acre property holds immense strategic importance due to its location. Situated near Rufus, Oregon, it lies directly at the dramatic confluence of the Deschutes River, a nationally recognized wild and scenic waterway, and the mighty Columbia River. This location makes it a critical piece for protecting the health of both river systems and providing habitat connectivity. The acquisition successfully secures approximately two miles of vital riverfront access along the Deschutes River. Public access to riverfront areas in this region is highly sought after and increasingly rare due to private ownership.
Previously owned by the Deschutes River Conservancy, a non-profit organization focused on restoring streamflow and improving water quality in the Deschutes River Basin, the land has been managed with conservation values in mind. Its transition to state park ownership ensures its continued protection and opens the door for managed public access and ecological restoration efforts on a larger scale. The diverse landscape, ranging from riparian areas along the river to potential upland habitats, provides significant ecological value, supporting various plant and wildlife species.
Planning for Public Access and Recreation
With the acquisition complete, the Oregon Parks and Recreation Department will now move forward with planning and development for the Cascadia Riverside State Park. While the land is secured, it will require significant work before it is ready to welcome visitors. Initial plans for the park include the development of over ten miles of new hiking trails. These trails are expected to traverse the diverse terrain of the 520-acre parcel, offering visitors opportunities to experience the unique landscape, access the Deschutes River frontage, and enjoy views of the surrounding area and the Columbia River Gorge.
The development process will involve site planning, environmental reviews, trail construction, and the establishment of necessary infrastructure such as parking and restrooms. The department anticipates that initial public access to the park will be available by late 2026. This timeline allows for the necessary planning, design, and construction phases to be completed responsibly, ensuring the protection of natural resources while creating a safe and enjoyable experience for future parkgoers.
A Milestone for Oregon Conservation
The establishment of Cascadia Riverside State Park through this acquisition marks a significant milestone for conservation in Oregon. Protecting sensitive riverfront property along a major waterway like the Deschutes River is crucial for maintaining water quality, preserving riparian ecosystems, and providing corridors for wildlife movement. The confluence area itself is a unique ecological zone worthy of protection.
Furthermore, the acquisition expands the network of public lands available for recreation in a region experiencing growing demand for outdoor opportunities. Securing two miles of Deschutes River frontage guarantees public access for future generations, allowing them to fish, hike, and connect with this important natural resource. The project exemplifies how dedicated funding sources, collaborative partnerships between federal and state entities, and strong public support can lead to tangible conservation outcomes and increased recreational access.
The creation of Cascadia Riverside State Park represents a successful effort to translate conservation goals and public investment into a tangible asset that will benefit Oregonians and visitors for years to come. The focus now shifts to the careful planning and development required to open this valuable resource to the public by the anticipated late 2026 timeline, fulfilling the promise of Measure E and the Land and Water Conservation Fund investment.
