River Level
The water level for the Columbia River fluctuates throughout the year. When the water level is high it can limit access to the clothing-optional beach by foot. Historically the river level is lowest in the late summer months. You can check the current river level at the link below.
If you have your heart set on walking to Sand Island, read our guide and latest blog post before you go.
Data on Oregon river levels is provided by the US Geological Survey.
Access to Sand Island
Our Humble Guide to the River Level at Rooster Rock
First, the river level and sand formations change each year. Watch other beach goers if you’re unsure how to walk to Sand Island.
Based on past experiences, we feel you can walk to Sand Island if the water level is at 14ft or lower as reported by the usgs.gov website.
Difficult
When the river level is above 15ft it is difficult to walk to the Sand Island.
Possible
With the water level around 13-14ft it is possible to walk to Sand Island, though your shorts may get wet.
Easier
When the river level falls below 12ft you can usually walk to Sand Island and only get your feet and ankles wet.
- River Level 15ft… but not for long
The river level has dropped to around 15 ft a few times this year, but it doesn’t stay there for long. It will continue to fluctuate up and down. Once the river drops to around 14 ft or lower the beach will have much more sand exposed, and it will be possible to walk to Sand Island (if you don’t mind getting a little wet).
Sand Island is one of the best portions of the clothing optional section of Rooster Rock State Park. The sand is soft, and the people are friendly (and often naked!).If you really want to walk to Sand Island, it is best to check the river level at roosterrock.org before you go.
Looking across the channel at Sand Island, river level at 15 ft.