Crystal Springs Rhododendron Garden

Category: Garden in Portland, Oregon

Address: 5801 SE 28th Ave, Portland, OR 97202, USA

Phone: +15032677509

Opening hours

Sunday: 10AM–3:30PM

Monday: 10AM–3:30PM

Tuesday: 10AM–3:30PM

Wednesday: 1–3:30PM

Thursday: 10AM–3:30PM

Friday: 10AM–3:30PM

Saturday: 10AM–3:30PM

Reviews

E B

Jul 23, 2022

Beautiful gardens with plenty of benches to sit and enjoy the scenery. There were three small waterfalls as well as ponds in which to see ducks and if you’re lucky, river otters. It’s not wheelchair nor cane friendly but if accessibility isn’t an issue, it’s a stunning park to visit. It’s a popular venue for wedding photography and I can see why. Parking lot is small but decent sized. I went on a Friday morning during the summer and it wasn’t too bad in terms of crowds. Entry fee is $5 and they accept credit cards. Well worth a visit.

John Phelan

Jul 10, 2022

This is an incredible area. Beautiful views all around and lots of little trails to explore. All the walking is very easy so fitness is not a great concern. There are numerous benches throughout to allow for rest and to take in views, with at least three small waterfalls, at least three beautiful wooden bridges, and public toilets right at the center for convenience. The car park isn't overly large so perhaps arrive early to gaurantee a space. It was 5 dollars for people over 10 as of July 2022. It took us about 1.5hours to take in the whole area and take pics, and we walked approx 2km in total according to my GPS tracker. Defo in my top ten places to visit in Portland!

F G

May 18, 2022

Such a hidden gem! This place is huge and amazingly beautiful! Only $5 admission which makes it so accessible. There is parking but the lot is small. Lots of cute ducks and the biggest rhododendrons I've ever seen in my life. They even sell umbrellas and have a bathroom. Highly recommend to both locals and people from out of town, for $5 you can spend a few peaceful hours reconnecting with an little nature. Paths were paved but since it was raining it was still pretty wet and muddy so the right shoes are something to plan ahead for weather wise.

Mack Pines

Apr 25, 2022

The most beautiful place in Portland. Lots of flowers and giant cedar trees. Go during April and you'll be treated to a colorful display of rhododendrons, azaleas, and cherry blossoms. Kids and kids at heart will love going over all the bridges and checking out the waterfalls. The garden has 13 springs that feeds Crystal Springs Lake with cold, clear water. The lake has lots of ducks and other waterfowl and makes a perfect spot for bird watching. Parking is very limited although, if it's the weekend, you can park across the street at Reed College. The garden has a $5.00 entrance fee.

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Questions & Answers

can a person that uses a walker get around on the paths? Thank you

Kathy Chandler | Aug 18, 2018
Darren Smith | Aug 18, 2018

Yes. There are some stairs, but you can use other walkways and ramps to access the same areas.

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Can you bring dogs to this location?

Fox Kimmons | Aug 18, 2018
Melinda Dominguez | Aug 18, 2018

Sure... Dogs are welcome anytime as long as they are leashed... 😀

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What is the price to go in?

Monica Estrella | Aug 18, 2019
Cindy Outland | Aug 18, 2019

Mondays are free

Are there places to sit as you tour the pathways?

Al-lyn Longie | Aug 18, 2018
Kevin Grisell | Aug 18, 2018

Yes- there are benches throughout the garden, as well as a couple grassy areas where you can sit and picnic

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What are in bloom during summer months?

Mai Thow | Aug 18, 2019
Chris Johnson | Aug 18, 2019

All sorts of flowers , ferns and more

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Is the garden handicapped accessible? I have a friend with a walker.

Frank Groznik | Aug 18, 2018
Ross Wineinger (Ross W.) | Aug 18, 2018

There's a long ramp that descends into the garden and I would say it is for the most part. There is, however, some paths that have gravel (around the central pond and a few other places) that could prove difficult.

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Is there an entrance fee?

Jeannie Young | Aug 17, 2021
Cassandra Rosenthal | Aug 17, 2021

Every day but Monday is $5

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can a person bring a dog on a leash

HeartLites & Shikiah | Aug 18, 2019
Iuliia B | Aug 18, 2019

Yes

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What type of parking do you offer? I'm introducing my Grandson/young photographer to your beautiful place this Friday

Donna Plante | Aug 18, 2019
Jason Delaney | Aug 18, 2019

There's a small lot. It fills up fast during the busy season/weekends.

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Is there a way to know the names of the rhododendrons in the garden, a map or possible guide?

Yonder Pond | Jun 18, 2022
Jeff Bayer | Jun 18, 2022

There are usually little plaques with the Latin name as well as the common name close by.

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Do they charge to get in?

marisela zuriaga | Sep 21, 2021
Kristine Robins | Oct 21, 2021

I paid $5 on a Saturday

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Where does one park car?

Josie Seymour | Aug 17, 2021
Roy Waite | Aug 17, 2021

The small parking lot is usually full and Reed College is not allowing parking currently. Next best is usually neighborhood streets to the south. Another option is going north, but then you have to walk a fair distance uphill to get back to the entrance.

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Are dogs welcome?

Kathy Ruyts | Aug 17, 2021
Brian Harris | Aug 17, 2021

Dogs are welcome, as long there leashed. And do not chase after the ducks

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What the best time of year to see the rhodies in full bloom?

Paul Rollins | Aug 18, 2019
autumn vaughns | Aug 18, 2019

Late June, Early July... But if you want to see a spectacular scene, it's a gorgeous place in the winter with a dusting of snow & ice too! 😍

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Are they open on Independence day

Rhonda Murray | Aug 18, 2018
Christine Dahlgren | Aug 18, 2018

Call them to find out

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Are dogs allowed on a leash?

Mindy Eldredge | Aug 18, 2018
Traveler | Aug 18, 2018

Yes. Dogs are welcome

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do you have to pay?

Shonnie Meijer | Jul 18, 2022
Pegi Schargel | Jul 18, 2022

Yes, a reasonable entrance fee is charged - except on Mondays.

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Will the Garden be open even if it rains? For example, Tomorrow, May 28 is forecast to rain. Will the Garden be open?

Dario Miranda | Jun 18, 2022
Joan McWilliams | Jun 18, 2022

Yes, we toured today on the rain. Beautiful.

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are pet dogs allowed?

GARY XIE | Jun 18, 2022
Mark Condon | Jun 18, 2022

Yes, but they must be leashed.

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Do you have to pay? I just came here from out of state.

Gao Ke | Jun 18, 2022
Dore Judd | Jun 18, 2022

Free on Monday's. Donations appreciated..

Is it dog friendly?

Maria Alonzo | Mar 20, 2022
Ty Lynn Young | Mar 20, 2022

Yes. On leash.

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Are the ducks there year round? Or migratory?

Theresa “Teesa” Ayers | Nov 20, 2021
Lynn Green | Nov 20, 2021

There are always ducks there, although feeding them is discouraged.

Are backpacks allowed?

Olivia Julier | Oct 21, 2021
Jewel Shell | Nov 20, 2021

Yes!

What are the hours in July? Hoping to do a golden hour sunset shoot there and wondering if they're open later in the evening ...

Betina Payne | Aug 17, 2021
Jack Wright from Woodland | Aug 17, 2021

The garden closes at 4pm, but they don't let anyone in after 3:30pm.

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Is Crystal Springs charging for entrance in February?

Karly L | Aug 17, 2021
Jeremy Isaksen | Aug 17, 2021

Yes

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Is entrance still free on Mondays?

Irene Johnson | Aug 17, 2021
Jessie Brennan | Aug 17, 2021

Went this past Monday and it was free

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Can you fish there

Randy Trueblood | Aug 17, 2020
Christopher Propst | Aug 17, 2020

No its a garden

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Are dogs allowed?

Tiffany Miller | Aug 17, 2020
Mesa Mesa | Aug 17, 2020

It says service dogs only but when I was there a fair few people were there with obviously pets.

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Can we go fishing there?

Nada Ghunaim | Aug 17, 2020
Julie Helms | Aug 17, 2020

No.

is there a listing of the varieties of rhododendrons cultivated?

Diane Garrett | Aug 17, 2020
Jessie Brennan | Aug 17, 2021

I only saw one information board for the wildlife. I wish they had markers for the plants.

Wondering about visiting this Sunday, Nov 10. Is it a bad time/off season? Thank you

Louanne Moldovan | Aug 17, 2020
Kay Ruhland | Aug 17, 2020

The flowers will not be blooming but even without them it is beautiful.

How long is the walk

Linda westover | Aug 17, 2020
Agnes Kiss | Aug 17, 2020

All the paths can be completed in less than 40 minutes, but this place is really about lingering and relaxing.

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Would I be able to hold my wedding ceremony here?

juicy Bon | Aug 18, 2019
S LV | Aug 18, 2019

Yes, you just have to contact the people who keep the grounds. The entrance has several pictures of people who have had ceremonies there.

Can you swim thare

Matthew Beaseau | Aug 18, 2019
Gibran Ramos | Aug 18, 2019

No swimming unless you're a duck or goose. 🙂

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Are the rhododendrons blooming yet in chrystal springs?

Bonnie Belknap | Aug 18, 2019
1RadiantNature | Aug 18, 2019

Yes, some have already bloomed

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Is it recommended to visit there in February?

אופיר שמש | Aug 18, 2019
Jeff Horne | Aug 18, 2019

It's beautiful throughout the year!

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Is the place stroller friendly?

אופיר שמש | Aug 18, 2019
Šk lúr | Aug 18, 2019

You should be able to go around with a stroller but there are gravel paths. You can go around almost everywhere without encountering stairs.

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how long is it

Tyler Luckey | Aug 18, 2019
Šk lúr | Aug 18, 2019

Pretty dang big atleast for me

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Are the rodies blooming?

Leo Schumacher | Aug 18, 2019
Jeremy Black | Aug 18, 2019

No late march to july , best day is mothers day

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What time of year is this best for viewing flowers?

R Belmonte | Aug 18, 2019
Robin Wikoff | Aug 18, 2019

Around Mother's Day the Rhodies are usually blooming but it depends on how warm the Spring is

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Are their games and activities for kids?

Theresa Nguyen | Aug 18, 2018
Amber Cobb III | Aug 18, 2018

No

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Is there picnic area seating?

Eric Toness | Aug 18, 2018
Traveler | Aug 18, 2018

Please call them to find out is there any picnic area.

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We plan on being in the Portland area on June 5, 2018. Are we too late for spring blossoming rhodendrums?

Carol Marx | Aug 18, 2018
Traveler | Aug 18, 2018

You can see spring blossoming of rhodendrums by then.

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Can you bring outside food or drink in? What about wine?

Darby Cisneros | Aug 18, 2018
Traveler | Aug 18, 2018

Not sure about wine but food is ok

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Can you still get after 6pm

Margaret Mendoza | Aug 18, 2018
Traveler | Aug 18, 2018

No. They closed at 6

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I am having professional engagements photos taken this Sunday 5/20. We were planning on starting at 6pm to be able to capture sunset. I now see you close at 6pm. Is there any way we can stay later? Also, what is the charge per person?

Portland Fireplace and Chimney Inc. | Aug 18, 2018
Kawa Kuller | Aug 18, 2018

Questions on Google are answered by peers, not the actual business. Give Crystal Springs a call for such a specific question. They do rent out their space so it's possible they will accommodate.

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How much is admission for one?

Barbara Dow | Aug 18, 2018
Traveler | Aug 18, 2018

$5.00per person

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Is there over flow parking available?

kathryn desilets | Aug 18, 2018
Ross Wineinger (Ross W.) | Aug 18, 2018

Yes, the overflow parking is in the west Reed College lot. There's a sign that refers people there.

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Are there any rododendren gardens in santa Rosa california?

mike hegardt | Aug 18, 2018
Michelle Tait | Aug 18, 2018

Gardens at Lake Merritt. There are acually three of them in Sonoma county.

Are there any rhododendron shrubs for sald?

Annie Miles | Aug 18, 2018
Juniper Worden | Aug 18, 2018

Yes, they had a few small ones today for $12

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Do we need to bring quarters to purchase duck food or is it available at the admissions desk?

Holly Fritz | Aug 18, 2018
Suzanne Crow | Aug 18, 2018

So glad people buy food as bread is so bad for them. Remind people (gently) that they should not feed the bread.

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When do you estimate peak bloom to be this year (2018)?

James Briggs | Aug 18, 2018
Melinda Dominguez | Aug 18, 2018

Wow good question!.... That really depends on what the weather is going to do!.... Usually the blooms will start late March thru April and then into May.... But more sun means early blooms.... But there are lots of other flowers and plants there at the gardens..some look primeval like the elephant ear plant .. Enjoy them all!

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Are the rhododendrons blooming now (April 2nd)?

Mark Weisshaar | Aug 18, 2018
Melinda Dominguez | Aug 18, 2018

Why yes they are blooming... But not all of them bloom at once.... Plus there are different kinds...so the bloom times vary.

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How much for the tickets?

law eh | Aug 18, 2018
Melinda Dominguez | Aug 18, 2018

Five dollars...mondays are free

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Is there a hotel close by for out of town guests for a wedding at crystal springs gardens?

Joy Cooper | Aug 18, 2018
Melinda Dominguez | Aug 18, 2018

Sorry there are not any hotels anywhere close by..... But maybe a few miles toward downtown .

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How much do they charge to take pictures here?

Citlaly Ramirez | Aug 18, 2018
Holly Shilling | Aug 18, 2018

If you are doing a professional photo shoot, you should check ahead of time. I think a fee is charged based on size and time length of shoot.

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When's the best time to go? Never have been and really wanna check it out!

Mallory Pederson | Aug 18, 2018
Marie Martinez | Aug 18, 2018

Mallory it is a beautiful serene and peaceful garden whatever the season, Spring with the Rhododendrons blooming being the favorite one of most people. It is free between October and March

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Is there a cost for admission

Jean Bryant | Aug 18, 2018
Carrie Self | Aug 18, 2018

Admission is free to all from September 1, through February 28.  A $5 admission fee is charged between 10:00am-6:00pm, Wednesday through Sunday, March 1, through August 31. No admission fee on Mondays and Tuesdays. Admission proceeds go toward garden maintenance and enhancements.  Admission is free for children under 12 and Friends of Crystal Springs Rhododendron Garden. On the weekends, some areas may have limited accessibility due to special events.

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