About the Garden
About the Garden
Crystal Springs Rhododendron Garden is a sanctuary of tranquil beauty for the wellbeing of all.
A unique 9.5-acre garden, Crystal Springs contains an outstanding collection of rare species and hybrid rhododendrons, azaleas, and other lesser-known ericaceous plants, as well as many companion plants and unusual trees.
Crystal Springs Rhododendron Garden was jointly established in 1950 by the Portland Parks & Recreation Bureau and the American Rhododendron Society Portland Chapter (now doing business at the site as Friends of Crystal Springs Rhododendron Garden). This partnership continues.
Read more about the garden’s history
This internationally-recognized garden is a beautiful place to visit any time of the year. April through June, when the azaleas and rhododendrons are in full bloom, the garden is a riot of color. A spring-fed lake surrounds much of the garden, attracting countless waterfowl which nest and feed in this natural habitat. In fall and winter, trees and shrubs add their own color and interesting structure.
Visitors stroll by three waterfalls via two picturesque bridges and wander down shaded paths to Crystal Springs Lake. Marveling at the reach of the fountain spray, exploring the garden, and watching wildlife are favorite pastimes. Long regarded as a photographer’s dream, this tranquil setting makes it easy to forget that downtown Portland is only minutes away.
Staff, volunteers, and other experts care for the plants and maintain the garden year-round.
A refuge for people, plants, and wildlife
Over 90 species of birds are seen in the garden, among them the great blue heron, Townsend’s warbler, ruby-crowned kinglet, chestnut-backed chickadee, lesser scaup, bufflehead, wood duck, ruddy duck, American coot, cedar waxwing, and bald eagle. Other wildlife call the garden home including coyote, beaver, muskrat, and river otters.
Photography Policy
A fee is required for portrait photography. Any photographer wishing to take portrait photographs for proposals, proms, or other purposes must check in and pay at the garden gatehouse. For more information on photo policies or to schedule a shoot, please see our photography policies page.