Splash Into Summer At These 6 Family Friendly Beaches
The coast isn't the only place to enjoy a fantastic beach day in Oregon! Mt. Hood Territory offers an abundance of kid friendly outdoor fun, from inviting riverbanks to serene alpine lake swimming. These incredible family friendly swimming spots near Portland are the perfect refreshing summer escape.
For convenient Willamette River access in Lake Oswego, George Rogers Park is a true gem. Situated along the river's shores, this popular spot boasts a sandy beach area, making it a summer favorite for sunbathers and water recreators alike. Its gentle entry into the river is ideal for wading, floating or paddleboarding, with Alder Creek offering kayak and SUP rentals directly from the park during the summer months. Families will love the kid-friendly playground and ample green space for picnics. You can't miss the Historic Iron Furnace, Oregon's oldest landmark, adding a touch of history to your visit. It's a perfect spot for a relaxed afternoon of Oregon summer activities, combining urban convenience with natural beauty.
Further along the Willamette River, Mary S. Young Park in West Linn provides an expansive natural setting. Spanning about 128 acres, this quiet, forested park features excellent river access with a mix of sandy and rocky beaches, perfect for a day by the water. It even includes a dedicated off-leash dog beach. As you walk deeper into the forest on its 5-8 miles of numerous trails, it's easy to forget you're still in the city, making it a favorite for urban birders and anyone seeking a peaceful escape. It's a well-rounded destination for family friendly recreation offering both water fun and extensive nature walks.
If you're seeking more rugged Clackamas River adventures, head to Milo McIver State Park near Estacada. This sprawling park offers numerous river access points, great for swimming, floating and fishing. While you won't find a classic expansive sandy beach, the calm sections of the river are perfect for cooling off. For those looking to float, Milo McIver is a great alternative to the often overcrowded Barton Park to Carver Park section of the river. Conveniently, a life jacket loaner station with various sizes is available at Estacada Lake within the park, and Clackamas River Outfitters offers rentals and guided tours right there. Beyond the water, enjoy the world-class disc golf course, extensive hiking and horseback riding trails, and even a fish hatchery.
Mt. Hood Alpine Lakes
For a unique alpine lake swimming experience amidst stunning mountain vistas, explore these pristine high-altitude lakes in the Mt. Hood National Forest.
Lake Harriet: Often referred to as the best-kept secret on Mt. Hood, this picturesque lake provides excellent Lake Harriet swimming access in a beautiful forest setting. Its clear, calm waters are ideal for a refreshing dip and non-motorized boating, making it a wonderful, accessible option for Mt. Hood Territory recreation.
Timothy Lake: Timothy Lake is a large reservoir boasting breathtaking views of Mt. Hood. While not exclusively sandy, many sections of its shoreline offer gentle entry points for swimming, paddleboarding, boating and kayaking. Timothy Lake is perfect for extended stays with numerous campgrounds and ample space for all your family friendly water activities.
Burnt Lake: A 6.6 mile out-and-back hike through enchanting forests leads to the beautiful Burnt Lake. The crisp, clear water is perfect for a refreshing dip, and the surrounding views of Mt. Hood (weather permitting!) are simply stunning. It's a fantastic spot for a picnic and a peaceful escape.
Personal floatation devices, or life jackets, can save lives and in many situations are required by law. So you "otter" wear a life jacket. Life jackets are available for any boating activity and the Oregon State Marine Board has lots of information on how to choose the correct one for you and your family.
