Meet Oxbow Regional Park – Oregon’s own 1,000-acre woods. (Or, more accurately, 1,000-acre natural park). Located ten miles southeast of Troutdale along the Sandy River, there are 15 miles of trails through Oxbow's ancient forests to explore, as well many other outdoor activities.
Here are a few great ways to get to know the closest old-growth forest to Portland:
-Float the river in a tube, boat or kayak. You’ll have a pretty good shot at spotting elk, osprey, beavers, and an assortment of wildlife while enjoying the current of the Sandy River.
-Take in some old-fashioned entertainment at the campfire amphitheater. Naturalists, musicians, and storytellers are booked June 24 to Sept. 3 to offer diverse and engaging evening shows.
-Get your thinking cap on and learn at the outdoor classroom. Classes include rotating topics such as animal tracking, mushrooms gathering, survival skills and more.
-Keep it classic and plan a picnic under the trees. There are reserveable tables tucked amid a large grassy turf with large barbecue, horseshoe pit, potable water and other amenities.
Parking fees run 5 dollars per car or 7 dollars per bus. Free with annual pass. Dogs are not permitted at this park.
Rick
8 years agoOxbox is a wonderful nature park right off I-84, and the pristine Sandy River is an ideal place to cool off on hot summer days!
Rick
8 years agoThanks for sharing about all the great classes, too, Nastacia--I didn't know they offered all that out there!