You can find Glassbar Island just outside the city limits of the Eugene/Springfield, Oregon area. It is quite conveniently located just off Interstate 5 about 2 miles southeast the city. Whether coming from the north or the south take the 30th St/ Lane Community College exit. If you approach from the south, simply go forward at the stop sign to the first street on the other side of the Shell Station. Turn right and go about ¼ miles.

You will see the old parking lot on the left. It has an ugly yellow gate across it now. You can park anywhere along the road as long as you are at least 3 feet from the white line. (DO NOT BLOCK THE GATE - it's a $400 fine if you do.)

Here's the link to the map of the area showing the streets.

Move your cusor over the blue buttons on the image below to view detailed images.

Once you are parked walk around the gate and through the parking lot. On the opposite side of the lot there are 2 ways to go. One is to walk around the gate and onto the gravel road. This is the winter route and leads to some really nice ponds and nature walks. It also leads to our winter quarters which I will elaborate on later. The other way is pass the small cement barrier which leads you to the spring and summer trails. The spring trail is through the woods and is usually quite muddy until May. The summer trail is open around July when the little pond dries up. This is the shortest way to the island.

The summer and winter trails both lead to the river road. This is another small gravel road that runs along the river from which you can access the 3 crossings to the island. The middle crossing is directly across the road from the summer trail. Whether you are using the summer or spring trails turn right on the road to get to the front crossing. Just walk up the road to the first big opening on your left. There are picnic tables in the open area. The front crossing is down the trail on the left side of the picnic area.

(the river road)

Speaking of the island, this is the main summer spot for tanning, swimming. As stated before, this is an island and there are no bridges to it. One has to wade across a small rivulet to get to it.

The water is usually too high and dangerous to cross until mid April or early May. It will serve you well to bring a pair of water shoes or old sneakers to walk in the water. The river bottom is quite rocky and sometimes slippery.

There are 3 crossings to the island- Front (main), Middle, and Back crossings. The front or main crossing leads you to the front or main beach area. Here you will find a nice grassy area with a very nice swimming area.

(the front crossing)

This is a really nice area with lots of activities and social gatherings. Shade is a premium here so bring lots of sunblock. There are hiking trails all over the island and it is easy to find privacy if you want.

(the front beach)

The middle crossing will take you to the back area. There is very little swimming here and it is hot. It is mainly used by people who want their solitude to tan. The middle crossing is the nearest to the tree house and the forest and is primarily used by locals. The back crossing is used by locals and leads to the Glenwood district.

The river road is shared with a local construction company and occasionally you will encounter one of their vehicles on the road.

The winter trail is accessed by the front parking lot. Go around the gate and down the road.

This road is flanked by ponds that offer great
views of the local wildlife in the area.

(a spring day at the ponds)

In the winter months when the river rises, the island can not be accessed. This road is the only dry trail to the river road. Two winter gathering areas have been established for use during these months.

First there is sunset vista, offering a sunny spot sheltered from the wind. This area has an open air amphitheater look to it on a miniature scale of course. You can find someone here almost any dry day during the winter months. In the summer, it serves as a quiet shady retreat from the sun and the crowds.

The second area is called simply the Grotto. It is also in an amphitheater layout and is a bit shadier than sunset vista, although it does have a fire pit. In the summer months it serves as a quiet respite from the hot sun and the crowds. If you do get disoriented just ask someone. Everyone is very friendly here.

(gathering at sunset vista)

(view from sunset vista)

Now for the dos and don’ts, while we all hate rules out here, there are a few taboos.

Gentlemen, respect our ladies. Anyone that acts improperly towards our women will be expelled in a flash so just don’t do it.

This is a gay friendly and straight friendly environment. If you have any problems with this STAY AWAY! We do not and will not tolerate any “hostile” actions by ANYONE. We will descend on you like the wrath of God so just stay away.

Also we enforce the rule that you tote out what you bring in. In other words, don’t leave your trash when you depart.

Since the property belongs to the OPRD of the State of Oregon, you will need to follow the OPRD rules as established. Here are a few rules to consider before coming out to the Glassbar Island property:

• No camping on the island and surrounding properties.
• No fires except at the firepit by the tables at the front crossing and at the plum tree on the island. During extremely dry weather - no fires anywhere.
• No cutting of live trees, shrubs or wildflowers on the island and adjacent properties.
• No public sexual activity.

The group "Glassbar Island Volunteers" is not liable for any personal injuries which occur on the island and the surrounding state and county properties. There are no lifeguards on the property so enter the water at your own risk.

We all come out here for fun and relaxation in an atmosphere of safety and respect. Enjoy your visit to Glassbar Island.