Eighteenmile Island

Eighteenmile Island sits in the Columbia River between Mosier and Hood River, covering roughly 10 acres with pine and willow trees along basalt rock formations. A sandy beach borders the island, and a single house from the late 1960s occupies the property.

The Lewis and Clark Expedition documented this river location during their early 1800s journey across the continent. Later, Charles Reither lived on the island from 1915 to 1963 and became locally known as Chicken Charlie.

The island represents one of the few remaining privately owned properties on the Columbia River, with a single residence built in 1969.

Reaching the island requires a boat since no public ferry or bridge connects it to the shore. The residence relies on electricity transmitted from the mainland and obtains fresh water through filtration of river water.

Strict zoning regulations prevent any new construction on the island, keeping it remarkably undeveloped despite centuries of human presence. These restrictions preserve the natural landscape and ensure the property remains a solitary dwelling rather than expanding into a settlement.

Location: Wasco County

GPS coordinates: 45.68972,-121.42139

Latest update: December 10, 2025 15:51