Molalla River State Park
00 review8801 Buena Vista Rd NW, Albany, Oregon, 97321, United States
Molalla River State Park
$0.00 - $0.00 / night
Campsite Fees
Standard Site Fee$0.00
Hookup Site Fee$0.00
Premium Site Fee$0.00
Hike and Bike Site Fee$0.00
Group Site Fee$0.00
Food Storage Locker Fee$0.00
User reviews strongly emphasize that Molalla River State Park is a rare state park without an entrance fee, which is appreciated by visitors. Melissa M also highlights this, calling it 'the only state park with no fee.'
About this campground
Escape the crowds and discover your own riverside sanctuary at Molalla River State Park, a hidden gem where tranquility reigns supreme. This peaceful day-use park invites you to slow down and reconnect with nature along the banks of the Molalla River. While overnight camping isn't available, the park offers everything you need for a perfect day outdoors: modern flush toilets, refreshing drinking water, shaded picnic areas, and meandering trails that wind through diverse landscapes. Though some visitors have noted the park could benefit from additional maintenance, its serene atmosphere and relative seclusion make it an ideal retreat for those seeking a quieter alternative to Oregon's busier parks.
Molalla River State Park is a day-use park with no overnight camping facilities. Visitors can enjoy picnics, fishing, walking trails, and other recreational activities.
Natural Features and SceneryStep into a living tapestry where the rich ecosystems of the Willamette Valley come alive before your eyes. The park showcases a stunning blend of riparian forests, open meadows, and agricultural vistas that tell the story of Oregon's diverse landscapes. Wander beneath towering Douglas firs that provide cool shade on warm days, then emerge into sun-drenched fields where wildflowers dance in the breeze. As local explorer Steve Lacey beautifully captures it, 'The scenery ranges from Willamette Valley River basin flora to farmland and a hike through a stand of Fir trees,' offering visitors a chance to experience multiple Oregon ecosystems in one remarkable location.
Geological RegionNestled within Oregon's fertile Central Valleys Region, Molalla River State Park serves as a natural gateway to understanding the Willamette Valley's unique geography. Here, the ancient geological forces that shaped the valley have created a diverse landscape where river-carved channels meet rich alluvial soils. The park's setting showcases the characteristic features of the Willamette Valley River basin, from its lush riparian zones to the productive farmlands that have sustained communities for generations. Small groves of native conifers punctuate the terrain, offering glimpses of the forests that once blanketed this entire region.
Campsite details
AccessibilityLimited information is available about accessibility features. However, the park does have trails and restrooms described by some users as accessible.
Sites SizeThe park is primarily a day-use area with open grass spaces. No designated campsites are available.
Sites PrivacyThe park is open and does not provide secluded or private areas, as noted in user reviews.
Total Campsites0 campsites
Reserving a campsite
Tents
Tents are not allowed
RV vehicles
RV vehicles are not allowed
Primitive
Primitive are not allowed
Reservable
Reservations are allowed
Site layoutThe park includes picnic tables scattered around mowed grass areas and unmarked trails. Parking is available but divided between paved and mowed weed spaces.
Reservation PlatformsReservations can be made via the Oregon State Parks website, and for group day-use sites, prior reading of rules for reservation changes and cancellations is recommended.
Cancellation PolicyReservations can be changed or canceled, as per the Oregon State Parks guidelines. For detailed rules, visit the Oregon State Parks website.
Amenities available
Potable water
Picnic tables
Flush toilets
Activities you can enjoy
Molalla River State Park offers activities such as walking, fishing, picnicking, and dog exercise in an off-leash area. The park's open grass areas and trails make it suitable for day-use recreation.
Hiking
The park has unmarked dirt and gravel trails. Reviews highlight a 1.5-mile loop trail, but users noted the lack of signage, which can lead to straying into neighboring farmlands.Fishing
Fishing is a popular activity at the park. According to reviews, fishing is accessible from the boat ramp and along the river, though some areas have overgrown vegetation.Swimming
While no designated swimming area exists, users mentioned that people often swim and float in the river, particularly near the boat ramp.Boating
The park features a boat ramp, but multiple reviewers describe it as poorly maintained and difficult to use. It is primarily used to launch kayaks, pedal boats, or small fishing boats.Water Sports
Non-motorized water sports such as kayaking and paddling are commonly done at the park. The boat ramp serves as the main access point.Campground rules
- Pets are allowed
Hazards
General hazardsThe poorly maintained boat ramp is a recurring safety concern. Stephanie F warns about its condition: 'Even though it is technically a boat ramp/launch, it has always given off an abandoned, unsafe vibe. It scares me to use it.' Additionally, dog waste is an issue, as noted by various reviewers.
Weather forecast
89
°F
Aug 25
Monday
Overcast
Precipitation: 0%
Moderate wind, may affect light items
Humidity: 35%
Comfortable humidity levels
Wind: 4.8 mph
Moderate wind, may affect light items
Overcast
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Good to know
Trash and recyclingTrash and recycling facilities are not explicitly mentioned in the reviews or authoritative content, but the park includes picnic areas and public restrooms, which may suggest some waste management provisions.
Proximity to water featuresThe park has access to the Willamette and Molalla Rivers, but fishing access is limited. R.C. notes, 'There is more access to the Willamette River than the Molalla.'
Common complaintsMany complaints center around the boat ramp's poor condition, inconsistent cleaning of restrooms, unmarked trails, and violations of leash rules for dogs.
HostThere is no mention of campground hosts.
Campground Map
8801 Buena Vista Rd NW, Albany, Oregon, 97321, United States
Driving directionsFrom Portland (I-5 south): Exit 282a toward Canby. Turn left onto Arndt Rd, which becomes Knights Bridge Rd. Turn left onto Holly St, then left at the park entrance. From Portland (205 south): Exit 9 toward Oregon City, follow 99E south. Turn right onto Territorial Rd, then right onto Holly St, and take a left at the park entrance. From Salem (I-5 north): Exit 278 toward Aurora. Follow 99E north to Canby, turn left onto Grant St, right onto First St, left onto Holly St, and left at the park entrance.
Molalla River State Park is accessible via paved roads, but it is located off the main highways. User reviews mention its remote location, stating 'it is quite a ways from a main road,' which limits random visitors and makes it primarily frequented by locals. Seasonal accessibility issues are not mentioned.Camper Reviews
0.0
0 reviews
Molalla River State Park has limited reviews, placing it in the bottom % of campgrounds based on reviews
User reviews of Molalla River State Park are mixed, with some appreciating its peaceful atmosphere and suitability for dogs, while others criticize the poor maintenance of facilities like the boat ramp and restrooms. The park is described as 'almost like a secret park,' frequented by locals who enjoy its quiet and open spaces.
Review Summaries
What Campers Love
Positive aspects include the park's 'peaceful' setting, dog-friendly amenities, open spaces for picnics, and trails for walking. Users also appreciate the lack of entry fees.
Common Concerns
Complaints include poorly maintained facilities such as the boat ramp and restrooms, unmarked trails, and a lack of privacy in group reservation areas. One reviewer noted, 'Restrooms stink due to...
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Pro Tips & Recommendations
Visitors recommend ignoring leash rules in certain areas, as the off-leash dog exercise area seems underutilized. Another tip is to be cautious when using the boat ramp due to its poor condition.
Seasonal Insights
The park is generally less crowded during off-peak seasons but can become busy during summer, particularly in the afternoons. Seasonal weather trends indicate that the park is best enjoyed during dry...
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Camper Quotes
1. 'Molalla state park is almost like a secret park, mostly visited by local area residents.' 2. 'It would have been better if people, kids, dogs didn't walk through our space.' 3. 'Neglected park....
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Site-Specific Reviews
Group areas were critiqued for a lack of reserved parking spaces and privacy, as noted by one reviewer: 'It would have been better if people, kids, dogs didn't walk through our space.'
Accessibility Features
Limited accessibility information is provided. One reviewer noted that the trails can be unclear and may lead into farmland, posing challenges for all visitors.
Pet-Friendly Features
Multiple reviews emphasize the dog-friendly nature of the park, including a designated off-leash area. However, leash rules are widely ignored, and not all owners pick up after their pets.
Last updated August 10, 2025