A number of interests converge at the Sandy River Delta, as it lies between three popular spots: the Gorge, Mt. Hood, and Portland. The Columbia River Gorge National Scenic Area planned the site as the western entry point to the Gorge area for travelers. They also see its future potential as a demonstration project for environmental restoration. Locally, walkers make good use of the new trail through a young native landscape.

As for the fuller extent of the Sandy River, some conflict arose between private property owners and fishermen plus other recreational users of the river. The Oregon State Dept of Public Lands determined that the Sandy River met the legal criteria for public recreational use, after studying its historical uses and the limited extent of alterations to the river.