If there is one truth to be had, it's that kids love animals. There's just something special when your child sees a majestic horse or adorable alpaca for the first time, and their face lights up with delight. Truth be told, the animals seem to really like the kids as well. We want you (and the animals) to enjoy that experience, so we've collected a list of eight farms throughout Oregon's Mt. Hood Territory where you can make wonderful memories with your family this spring.
They're cute. They're cuddly. And they're just a bundle of personality. Alpacas are one of the most entertaining animals you can find on any farm in Mt. Hood Territory or beyond. That may be why our destination has more of them than just about any other county out there. Alpacas at Marquam Hill Ranch is one of the largest alpaca farms around and boasts several champion animals. In addition to getting up close and personal with them, you can learn all about their different types of fiber and come home with the softest sweater you've ever felt in your life.
Fir Point Farms is known for their country store with homemade pastries, including amazing cinnamon rolls, plus their apple cider donuts are legendary. But on top of that, they have tree-climbing pygmy goats. As if that weren't enough, their resident bunnies are pretty darn adorable too. If you come back in the fall, you can enjoy their six acres of pumpkins and family fun.
Located in Wilsonville, Frog Pond Farm is a family-run farm providing entertainment for the entire family. This season the farm will open on May 3. With over 80 animals to see, interact with, and feed, plus plenty of outside activities and games, you're sure to have a great time. Animals include goats, llamas, guinea pigs and even two camels named Dude and Jerry!
Known for her expertise in growing native and rare plants for any garden, Out in the Garden Nursery owner Carol Westergreen also cares for several animals that are all part of the experience there. Enthusiastic goats that love attention, plus chickens of all sorts of exotic varieties are fun critters your kids can meet. Bonus activities: Try to find Grayson, their cat who tends to grab a catnap in unique places.
Donkeys may have a reputation for being stubborn animals, but spend a few minutes at Oregon Donkey Sanctuary and you'll discover that they are sweet, affection-loving animals. Located outside of Oregon City, the farm rescues and rehabilitates donkeys while giving them a wonderful home. Learn more about these misunderstood creatures, and perhaps make a new friend or two.
Stop by for the cheese and stay for the "Cowlebrities." TMK Creamery outside of Canby is a family owned and operated dairy that makes some delicious cheeses. Their tours showcase the entire process, as they pride themselves on being an open and transparent operation. The real stars of the show though are their cows, which seem more like big dogs the way they eat up attention.
You honestly haven't lived until you've seen a baby miniature donkey; it just may be the cutest thing ever. Tollen Farm in Wilsonville has several of them frolicking around in their fields. And they would all love for your kids to pet them. In addition to other animals, such as Arabian horses, Tollen Farm has a charming gift shop with unique treasures for your home. You can pretend you're there to do some shopping like a grown up... totally not to play with the animals like your kids will be. Go ahead, we won't tell anyone.
Triskelee Farm, outside of West Linn, has an impressive selection of animals. From farm favorites like goats and horses to more unique cuties like ostriches, and not to mention adorable alpacas, many critters call this scenic farm home. A tour takes about an hour, but it could likely be longer, as you find yourself spending a little extra time cuddling with a pygmy goat. Pro tip: Go for a tipsy tour if you're 21+.
