Tuck Woodstock

Tuck Woodstock wrote and edited content for Travel Portland from 2014–2020. Read More

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Crystal Springs Rhododendron Garden is located in Southeast Portland. Its a botanical garden.

Crystal Springs Rhododendron Garden

Enjoy an abundance of flowers and waterfowl at this Southeast Portland park.

Updated Oct. 24, 2023 2 min read Southeast Portland

Tuck Woodstock

Tuck Woodstock wrote and edited content for Travel Portland from 2014–2020. Read More

If you’ve visited Portland before, you’ve likely admired the thousands of blooms at the International Rose Test Garden. Perhaps you’ve even wandered the rows of rose bushes at Peninsula Park. Now it’s time to round out your floral explorations with a visit to Southeast Portland’s lush Crystal Springs Rhododendron Garden.

Flora and Fauna

Tucked between Reed College and the Eastmoreland Golf Course, Crystal Springs was founded in 1950 as a rhododendron test garden. Today, the park boasts more than 2,500 rhododendrons, azaleas and other plants spread across 9.5 acres (4 hectares). Small placards identify the flora for visitors, and self-guided tour booklets are available on-site.

One of Portland’s best waterfowl-watching spots, the garden is home to nearly 100 types of birds and other wildlife. Settle in on a bench by Crystal Lake and enjoy the sight of dozens of ducks and geese. Listen for the trills and squawks of scrub jays, red-winged blackbirds, songs sparrows, green-backed herons and many other bird species.

Two bits of avian advice before you visit: First, don’t plan on bringing a snack for the birds. (A sign at the entrance declares “No bread, please!”) Secondly, decades of visitors have made these waterfowl rather brave when faced with human guests. So if a gaggle of geese blocks your path, it may be wise to choose a different route.

Visiting the Garden

Rhododendrons typically bloom from late February through July, and peak in late April to early May. But thanks to the park’s many other plants, animals and water features, you can enjoy Crystal Springs all year. The park features a number of benches and ADA-accessible paths, allowing folks of all ages and abilities to enjoy the grounds. Even dogs are allowed, provided that they are leashed.

Bathrooms and parking are available on-site, and group tours can be arranged with advanced notice.

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Credit: Rick Dalrymple via Flickr

Events at the Garden

Crystal Springs hosts two annual flower events, presented by the Portland chapter of the American Rhododendron Society. The Early Blooming Rhododendron & Daffodil Show and Sale takes place in early April. The larger Mother’s Day Show and Sale is held during Mother’s Day weekend in mid-May (which is also peak bloom time). Both shows feature a large plant sale and a judged flower show that is open to all competitors.

Crystal Springs is also a popular spot for weddings, photoshoots and other events. Portions of the park may be closed for private celebrations on weekend afternoons in the summer. For more information, visit weddingsatcrystalsprings.com.

Parks and Gardens

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Go To Parks & Gardens

Lan Su Chinese Garden

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Washington Park

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Portland Japanese Garden

A haven of meticulously maintained, tranquil beauty, proclaimed one of the most authentic Japanese gardens outside of Japan, the Portland Japanese Garden offers meandering streams, intimate walkways and an unsurpassed view of Mount Hood.

Forest Park

Escape the city without leaving Portland; with 70 miles of trails within Portland city limits, 5,156-acre Forest Park is a popular escape for runners, equestrians and hikers alike and supporting more than 112 bird and 62 mammal species.

The Grotto

This serene woodland sanctuary in Northeast Portland features 62 acres (25 hectares) of lush botanical gardens. No matter what time of year you visit, the Grotto offers calm, peace and introspection, transcending boundaries.

Audubon Society of Portland Nature Sanctuary

The Audubon Society of Portland Nature Sanctuary is a great starting place for hiking Forest Park and (of course) bird-watching.

Best Spots for Spring Flowers

Find your favorite blooms, from roses to rhododendrons and tulips to trilliums, with our guide to spring flowers in Portland.

Spring Hikes Near Portland

There’s something special about the first spring hike of the year. Enjoy wildflowers, bird watching and breathtaking scenery on these springtime rambles.