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  "description": "Maryhill State Park: Your perfect Columbia Gorge picnic stop. Enjoy shaded tables, stunning river views & a peaceful break on your drive.",
  "path": "/maryhill-state-park-a-perfect-picnic-stop-on-i-84/",
  "publishedAt": "2025-07-21T01:10:43.000Z",
  "site": "at://did:plc:xoczgo53ahhoei6pror2b43g/site.standard.publication/3mmwwrtzqnc7k",
  "tags": [
    "Beaches",
    "Dog-Friendly",
    "Road Trips",
    "United States",
    "Washington",
    "Northwest"
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  "textContent": "When you buy through our links, we may earn a commission. See our Affiliate Policy. Spontaneous road trip picnic stops sometimes lead to the most memorable moments. That’s how we found ourselves at Maryhill State Park. This quiet riverside spot on the Washington side of the Columbia River Gorge was perfect for stretching our legs, walking the dogs, and enjoying a quick lunch by the water. We were driving west toward Multnomah Falls and eventually the Olympic Peninsula last year when hunger kicked in. A quick search on Google Maps pointed us to Biggs Junction, which had a few food options. What really caught our eye, though, was a bright green patch of land just across the Columbia River: Maryhill State Park in Washington. Curious and craving something good, we took exit 104 off I-84 and grabbed lunch from a little food truck called Punjabi Dhaba. With Styrofoam containers full of flavorful food, we crossed the Sam Hill Memorial Bridge into Washington and pulled into the tree-covered park along the river. It was an unplanned stop, but it ended up being one of our favorite little moments from the day. Punjabi Dhaba in Biggs Junction, OR A Summer Picnic Stop at Maryhill State Park We visited on a warm, sunny Saturday in late July. The sky was crystal clear, and the park was full of energy: families grilling, kids running through the grass, and volleyball games going strong. We stepped out of the car into a light breeze, and even in the heat of the day, the air felt cool and fresh. Maryhill State Park Weather The picnic area near the parking lot was shaded by tall trees, which made it the perfect spot to relax. It felt calm and laid back, a peaceful contrast to the busy freeway we’d just left behind. The day-use fee was $10, which we paid near the entrance. For an hour of downtime, shade, and river views, it was more than worth it. Shaded Picnic Tables with Columbia River Views The day-use area of the park had plenty of shaded picnic tables just a short walk from the parking lot. We unpacked lunch while Toby and Lily stretched their legs nearby on their leashes. A tree covered picnic location From where we sat, through the trees we could see the brown cliffs of the Columbia River Gorge rising in the distance. Off to the right, the Sam Hill Memorial Bridge we’d just crossed was visible, a reminder of how quickly we’d jumped from Oregon into Washington. Winds, Water, and Riverfront Views at Maryhill After lunch, we wandered down toward the river, and that’s when the breeze turned into full-blown gusts. The closer we got to the shoreline, the stronger the wind became. It’s no surprise this area is known for windsurfing since, at times, the wind was so strong it nearly pushed us sideways. Toby’s hair was blowing straight back, and we were squinting and laughing against the gusts. It added a wild, dramatic energy to the riverfront: the deep blue water, the tan cliffs across, and boats passing through the waves. We didn’t swim, but we saw families out in the water and a few people fishing from the shore. Even with the wind, it felt peaceful in its own way. There’s nothing quite like getting fresh air blown straight into your face. A Hidden Gem Rest Stop off I-84 This was our second time driving through the Gorge, and Maryhill State Park offered something we hadn’t gotten before: a way to actually get down to the river and walk along it. It felt more like a hidden gem than a typical rest stop, one that doesn’t usually show up on “must-see” lists, but probably should. We spent about an hour here, which felt like the perfect amount of time to picnic, walk the dogs, and recharge before getting back on the road. Park Details at a Glance Location: Just off Hwy 97, right across the bridge from I-84 (Exit 104) Fee: $10 day pass (paid at the park) Amenities: Restrooms, picnic tables, shaded areas, swimming/fishing access, camping section, volleyball court Pet-friendly: Yes, and our dogs loved it! Cell Service: No issues during our visit Best For: Picnics, quick leg stretches, riverside views, a dose of fresh air on a long drive Would We Stop at Maryhill Again? Definitely. If we’re passing through. It’s not a destination we’d go out of our way for, but if you’re heading through the Columbia Gorge and looking for a quick break with a great view, this park checks all the boxes. Final Thoughts: Is Maryhill Worth the Stop? If you’re road-tripping through Oregon and wondering where to stop and eat without sitting in your car or rushing through a rest area, Maryhill State Park in Washington is a gem worth crossing the bridge for. It gave us a breeze-filled break, a scenic place to walk the dogs, and a much-needed hour to slow down and breathe. Planning a drive through the Gorge? Add Maryhill State Park to your route; just don’t forget to hold onto your hat! Have you stopped here before or have a favorite hidden gem along the Columbia River? Let us know in the comments below!",
  "title": "Maryhill State Park: A Perfect Picnic Stop on I-84",
  "updatedAt": "2025-07-21T01:10:45.000Z"
}