Which park is a good option for my nature program?
Portland Parks & Recreation has over 200 parks in its park system. That might sound a little overwhelming if you are trying to find the best one to organize a nature program. We love that there are many different parks, however – the varied locations around the city give us a diversity of trees, plants, and topography to explore.
To help figure out the best location for your program, start by asking a few questions:
- How old are the participants, and how far can they walk?
- What is the goal of the program, and how much space is needed to accomplish it?
- What is the ability level of the participants?
- Am I looking to stay in my neighborhood, or am I looking to explore a new part of the city?
- What is the content of my program? Can the content be taught anywhere or is a content-specific location needed?
Some groups hope to travel across the city to visit a natural area for the first time. Other groups are interested in having their participants walk to a park they visit frequently. Both goals are important and valid - it just depends on what you hope to get out of the program.
Note: During any scheduled program, if there is no bathroom available on site, we will provide a portable toilet for the day.
Tips for choosing a good location
Different parks and natural areas work well for different ages and types of programs. For ideas to keep in mind when choosing your location, we have put together a few things to think about when choosing a location.
If you are planning a custom group Ladybug Walk for ages 2-6, consider the following:
- Ladybug Nature Walks move slowly and focus mainly on exploration, observation, and building connections.
- Because the children are so young, we often travel less than a quarter-mile during the entire program. We can easily run a Ladybug Nature Walk in just about any neighborhood park or natural area.
If you are planning a school field trip for grades K-12, consider the following:
- Field trips are two hours long and generally focus on a specific topic. Typically, a bigger park or natural area is chosen so there is plenty of space for groups to spread out and hike up to a mile during the field trip.
- Some topics have specific parks or natural areas that work best. If there is a recommended location, it is listed on the Field Trip Options page at https://www.portland.gov/parks/environmental-education/field-trip-options.
- Note: The Social and Emotional Learning in Nature program and the Urban Nature Exploration series are designed to be successful regardless of the size of the park. We will use all available space in the park, but we do not need to move a long distance to connect with each other and the space.
If you are planning a City Nature Walk for ages 6+, consider the following:
- Guided walks are open-ended experiences where participants walk or hike, stopping to notice the local plants, animals, fungi, etc. Walks vary depending on the location and season or can be focused on a specific topic.
- Generally, when groups choose a guided walk, they hope to cover a distance of 1-2 miles, stopping periodically to observe and discuss what we find.
- If you’d like to hike further than that during the program, make sure to choose a park or natural area with ample trails available for walking or hiking.
If you are planning to design a custom nature programs for any age or ability level, consider the following:
- A specific idea for a program related to nature education or nature connection might help decide the location.
- You might know a location because its a community-driven program and need help co-creating the program goals and content. We are happy to help as needed.
If you are interested in finding more information about any of the parks or natural areas, you can also search for a park on the main website.
North Portland
(west of N Williams Avenue)
Arbor Lodge Park
Location: N Dekum Street and Greely Avenue
Type of Park: Developed park with an inclusive playground
Why we like it: Grassy park with large trees and shrubs offer space for exploration, and we do like encouraging children to visit the playground after the program because it's so unique.
About this site: Street parking only. Mostly flat with paved trails. Adjacent to Chief Joseph Elementary School. Be mindful of off-leash dog park.
Cathedral Park
Location: N Edison Street and Pittsburg Avenue
Type of Park: Developed park along the Willamette River
Why we like it: We love the water access here along the river, the ducks and geese, the shrubs along the river, and all the different trees and open spaces for exploring.
About this site: The park has both steep hills (with paths) and flat areas along the river. There is water access along the majority of the west side. Access parking lot at N Baltimore and N Bradford Street for flat paths.
Columbia Park
Location: N Lombard Street and Woolsey Avenue
Type of Park: Developed Park with nature patch
Why we like it: Large forested park with tall Douglas-fir trees and other mature trees species to explore. Keep your eye out for lots of crocus flowers in the new nature patch in early springtime!
About this site: Street parking only. Mostly flat with paved and soft surface trails.
Farragut Park
Location: N Kerby Avenue and Farragut Street
Type of Park: Developed Park
Why we like it: Grassy areas and gently rolling hills featuring a variety of mature oak, maples, and fir trees to explore.
About this site: Street parking only. Gently sloping hills with paved paths.
Kelley Point Park
Location: N Marine Drive and Lombard Street
Type of Park: Hybrid Park – both developed parks and natural areas
Why we like it: Diverse park and natural area with tall cottonwoods and large stretches of sandy beachfront to dig, watch for birds, and follow cargo ships as they sail by.
About this site: On-site parking available. Mostly flat to sloping with paved, soft-surface, and beach paths.
Kenton Park
Location: 8417 N Brandon Avenue
Type of Park: Developed
Why we like it: Grassy park with large oaks, maples, and other trees to explore.
About this site: Street parking only.Mostly flat with paved paths.
Lillis-Albina Park
Location: N Flint Avenue and Russell Street
Type of Park: Developed
Why we like it: Grassy park with downtown views and variety of maple, flowering plum, and other trees to explore.
About this site: Street parking only. No trails, only flat grass. Adjacent to Harriet Tubman Middle School.
McCoy Park
Location: N Trenton Street and Newman Avenue
Type of Park: Developed park
Why we like it: Grassy park with young oak, katsura, and zelkova trees to explore.
About this site: Street parking only. Mostly flat with paved trails.Nearby Rosa Parks Elementary School.
Overlook Park
Location: N Fremont Street and Interstate Avenue
Type of Park: Developed park with nature patch
Why we like it: Grassy park with long views of the city skyline, rolling hills, new nature patch, and a giant American elm tree to explore.
About this site: Some parking available on-site. Flat areas and hilly edges with paved trails.
Peninsula Park
Location: 700 N Rosa Parks Way
Type of Park: Developed park
Why we like it: Grassy park with large trees, interesting edge habitats, and a beautiful rose garden to explore.
About this site: Street parking only. Most flat with paved paths and ramps into the rose garden.
Pier Park
Location: N Bruce and N James Streets
Type of Park: Hybrid Park
Why we like it: Large grassy and forested park with hills for rolling, variety of bird species, and diversity of native trees to explore.
About this site: Be mindful of the large off-leash dog park section and disc golf course that weaves its way throughout the park! Street parking only. Rolling hills with paved and unpaved trails. Adjacent to Sitton Elementary School.
St. Johns Park
Location: 8427 N Central Street
Type of Park: Developed park
Why we like it: Grassy park with maple, spruce, cedar and other trees to explore.
About this site: Street parking only. Mostly flat with no trails. Adjacent to St Johns Community Center.
Unthank Park
Location: 510 N Shaver Street
Type of Park: Developed park
Why we like it: Grassy park with long rows of sycamore and maple trees to explore.
About this site: Street parking only. Mostly flat with paved paths. Adjacent to Self Enhancement Inc. School.
Inner Northeast Portland
(north of Burnside Street between N Williams Avenue and NE Cesar Chavez Boulevard)
Alberta Park
Location: NE 22nd Avenue and Killingsworth Street
Type of Park: Developed park with a nature patch
Why we like it: Park features new nature patch offering fallen logs, native plants, and rocky areas for exploration. We also like the trees and shrubs around the edges of the park, the open spaces, and grassy fields.
About this site: Street parking only. The playground can be a little distracting as it is nested right in the center of the park. Mostly flat with paved and soft surface trails. Adjacent to Vernon Elementary School.
Columbia Children's Arboretum
Location: NE 13th Avenue and Meadow Drive
Type of Park: Hybrid park - both developed spaces and natural area
Why we like it: Large variety of tree species, apple orchard, wetland area, creek with bridges, open fields for insect hunting and play.
About this site: This is a hidden gem, but it is off the beaten path! Be clear with your transportation on where to meet and how to get there. Please watch for pet waste as you walk and explore. On site parking available. Soft surface trails only.
Fernhill Park
Location: NE 37th Avenue and Ainsworth Street
Type of Park: Developed Park
Why we like it: Gently rolling hills and grassy area featuring large oak, maple, pine, and chestnut trees. New nature patch with native groundcover, shrubs, trees, and fallen logs to explore.
About this site: Street parking only. Rolling hills and flat areas with paved and unpaved paths. Bathroom available.
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Grant Park
Location: NE 33rd Avenue and US Grant Place
Type of Park: Developed
Why we like it: Grassy park with a wide variety of mature oaks, firs, maples, sycamores, cherry trees and others to explore.
About this site: Street parking only. Mostly flat or slightly rolling hills with paved paths. Adjacent to Beverly Cleary Elementary School and Grant High School.
Irving Park
Location: NE Fremont Street and 7th Avenue
Type of Park: Developed park
Why we like it: Large variety of tree species, hills and uneven terrain, accessible paths, open grassy areas for playing and running, leaf litter at the edges for insect hunting, cool circular concrete structure for climbing and play, covered basketball court available.
About this site: Street parking only. Hilly and flat areas with paved trails. Be mindful of off-leash dog area. Adjacent to Albina Head Start. Bathrooms are closed November through April though a porta-potty is often available near the playground.
King School Park
Location: NE 6th Avenue and Humboldt Street
Type of Park: Developed
Why we like it: Grassy park with maple and pear trees to explore.
About this site: On-site parking available. Mostly flat with paved paths. Adjacent to King Elementary School.
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Oregon Park
Location: NE 30th Avenue and Oregon Street
Type of Park: Developed Park
Why we like it: Grassy park with Douglas-fir, redbud, sweetgum and other trees to explore.
About this site: Street parking only. Mostly flat with paved trails.
Wilshire Park
Location: NE 33rd Avenue and Skidmore Street
Type of Park: Developed park with a nature patch
Why we like it: Park features variety of trees and habitats to explore, as well as open grassy areas. The new nature patch offers fallen logs, native plants, and rocky areas for investigation.
About this site: Street parking only. Mostly flat with paved and soft-surface trails.
Woodlawn Park
Location: NE 13th Avenue and Dekum Street
Type of Park: Developed park
Why we like it: Variety of trees and habitats to explore, as well as open grassy areas. There is a small amphitheater built with big stones that is fun to play on and useful as a group gathering space.
About this site: Street parking only.Paved pathway to play area with slight slope. Accessible restroom, play area, and spray feature. The play area is in the middle of the park which may be distracting.
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Central Northeast Portland
(north of Burnside Street between NE Cesar Chavez Boulevard and NE 82nd Avenue)
Cully Park
Location: North of NE 72nd Avenue and Killingsworth Street
Type of Park: Developed
Why we like it: New park with Native Gathering Garden of grasses, shrubs, and flowers area to explore. Open fields, long mountain views, and nearby airplanes landing make for a unique park to visit.
About this site: On-site parking available. Mostly flat or sloping with paved and unpaved trails.
Normandale Park
Location: NE 57th Avenue and Halsey Street
Type of Park: Developed park
Why we like it: Large grassy park with many tall maples, elm, fir and other trees to explore.
About this site: On-site parking available. Mostly flat with paved trails. Be mindful of the off-leash dog park across from the playground.
Rose City Park
Location: NE 62nd Avenue and Tillamook Street
Type of Park: Developed park
Why we like it: Grassy park with tall pine, buckeye, and oak trees to explore as well as nearby nature trail around Rose City golf course.
About this site: Street parking only. Mostly flat with soft surface trails.
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Sacajawea Park
Location: NE 75th and Roselawn Street
Type of Park: Developed Park
Why we like it: Grassy park with long views and a variety of maples and pines to explore.
About this site: Mostly flat with soft surface trails. Street parking only. Adjacent to Sacajawea Head Start.
Wellington Park
Location: NE 66th Avenue and Mason Street
Type of Park: Developed
Why we like it: Grassy park with tulip, linden, pine and other trees to explore.
About this site: Street parking only. Mostly flat with paved trails.Adjacent to Scott Elementary School.
Whitaker Ponds Natural Area
Location: 7040 NE 47th Avenue, just off Columbia Boulevard
Type of Park: Natural area
Why we like it: Variety of song birds, water birds and raptors, ponds, creek and slough, bridges, variety of trees and plants, docks with pond access, macroinvertebrates, nutria, signs of beaver, coyote, deer, variety of short trails, open grassy areas for running and play, uneven terrain, rotting logs and hidden spaces with leaf litter for insect and spider hunting, owl pellets on rare occasions, both forested and field areas.
About at this site: Porta-potty only. No water access. On-site parking though lot can fill quickly. The Columbia Slough Watershed Council has a full calendar of water quality education classes with local schools most of the school year - which means limited times available. Please plan ahead for any programs at Whitaker Ponds. Mostly flat with paved, soft surface, and boardwalk trails.
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Outer Northeast Portland
(north of Burnside Street and east of NE 82nd Avenue)
Argay Park
Location: NE Failing Street and 141st Drive
Type of Park: Developed Park
Why we like it: Grassy park with variety of large and small trees and some open spaces for exploring. This park is really nice in the fall season. Keep an eye out for low flying airplanes!
About this site: Mostly flat with paved trails. Street parking only.
Glenfair Park
Location: NE 154th Avenue and Couch Court
Type of Park: Developed
Why we like it: Large grassy park with many Douglas-fir trees to explore.
About this site: Street parking only.Mostly flat with soft surface paths. Adjacent to Glenfair Elementary School.
Hancock Park
Location: NE 90th Avenue and Tillamook Street
Type of Park: Developed Park
Why we like it: Flat park with very large Douglas-fir tree canopy to explore.
About this site: Street parking only.Mostly flat with soft surface paths. Near Jason Lee Elementary School.
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John Luby Park
Location: NE 128th Avenue and Brazee Street
Type of Park: Developed
Why we like it: Forest-like park with tall tree canopy of Douglas-fir trees and others to explore.
About this site: Street parking only.Mostly flat with paved paths. Adjacent to Russell Elementary School.
Knott Park
Location: NE 117th Avenue and Knott Street
Type of Park: Developed
Why we like it: Grassy park with a large diversity of trees including sycamores, maples, spruces and other trees to explore.
About this site: Street parking only.Mostly flat with paved paths. Adjacent to Sacramento Elementary School.
Luuwit View Park
Location: NE 127th Avenue and NE Fremont Street
Type of Park: Developed
Why we like it: Grassy park with hilly sculpture and natural paths with diversity of grasses, shrubs, and young trees to explore.
About this site: On-site parking. Mostly flat with small hill on paved and soft surface paths. Adjacent to Shaver Elementary School.
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Thompson Park
Location: NE 138th Avenue and Thompson Street
Type of Park: Developed park
Why we like it: Large grassy field with a few maple, ash, cedar, and sequoia trees to explore.
About this site: Street parking only. Mostly flat with no trails. Be mindful that this park has little to no shade.
Wilkes Creek Headwaters
Location: NE 154th and Fremont St.
Type of Park: Natural area
Why we like it: This hidden gem features a variety of habitats to explore: open meadow, native forest, riparian, and even an historic orchard. Investigate the meadow for pollinators, spend time exploring the tall conifer trees, and see what creatures might be living in the creek.
About this site: Street parking only. Site is mostly undeveloped with unmarked soft-surface trails.
Wilkes Park
Location: 3655 NE 154th Avenue
Type of Park: Developed park
Why we like it: Grassy park with variety of sweetbay, birch, cherry and other trees to explore.
About this site: Mostly flat with paved paths. Street parking only.
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Inner Southeast Portland
(south of Burnside Street between the Willamette River and SE Cesar Chavez Boulevard)
Berkeley Park
Location: SE Cesar Chavez and Bybee Blvd
Type of Park: Developed park
Why we like it: Park with variety of tree species, edges with leaf litter for insect and spider hunting.
About this site: Street parking only. Gentle hills throughout with paved trails. The playground can be distracting but also offers a fun option for kids after the nature walk.
Brooklyn Park
Location: SE 10th Avenue and Haig Street
Type of Park: Developed park with some large hills
Why we like it: Grassy park with interesting mix of lilac, maple, birch, and elm trees to explore.
About this site: Street parking only. No paved or soft surface trails. It's one of the only parks in this little area of the city.
Colonel Summers Park
Location: SE 17th Avenue and Taylor Street
Type of Park: Developed Park
Why we like it: Grassy park with variety of cherry, hornbeam, and maple trees and community garden nearby.
About this site: Street parking only. Mostly flat with some gentle hills.
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Johnson Creek Park
Location: SE 21st Avenue and Clatsop Street
Type of Park: Developed Park
Why we like it: Park with tall trees, shrubby edges, and low creek to explore for macroinvertebrates and other aquatic habitats.
About this site: Street parking only.Mostly flat with paved paths.
Kenilworth Park
Location: SE 32nd and Holgate Blvd or SE 34th and Holgate Boulevard
Type of Park: Developed park
Why we like it: Large variety of tree species, birds, squirrels, and shrubs to hide in as well as rolling hills and grassy areas.
About this site: Street parking only. Sloping hills with paved trails. There are multiple entrances to the park - make sure your group knows exactly where to meet. The playground can be distracting, but is also a great option for kids after the nature walk. Adjacent to Grout Elementary School.
Laurelhurst Park
Location: SE Ankeny Street and Cesar E. Chavez Boulevard
Type of Park: Developed park
Why we like it: Large variety of tree species to explore along with many the park’s numerous bird species and squirrels. Check out the large pond with ducks, the leaf litter along the edges for insect hunting, rhododendrons for spider hunting, or the park’s many rolling hills.
About this site: This is one of the busiest parks in SE Portland - make sure you have ample chaperones to watch the children. Street parking only. Be mindful of off-leash dog area. Paved and soft surface trails.
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Oaks Bottom Wildlife Refuge
Location: SE Milwaukie Avenue, near Highway 99
Type of Park: Natural area
Why we like it: Numerous bird and amphibian species (including rare species not often seen), Tadpole Pond (vibrant frog and salamander habitat during breeding season into early summer), both paved and soft-surface trails, variety of bird species, variety of tree species, rich Portland history, active restoration site, open fields, wetlands, marshes, ponds, black-tailed deer, Great Blue Herons, eagles, osprey, evidence of numerous wildlife, boardwalk along bluff trail, wildlife observation deck, connects to areas along the Willamette River and Sellwood Riverfront Park.
About this site: Contains some sensitive areas due to the ongoing restoration work being done to improve amphibian and wildlife habitat, has some off-limits areas to park users. Limited parking available at North Parking Lot of Oaks Bottom, and the lot has no bathroom access. Sloping to flat with paved and soft surface trails.
Sellwood Park
Location: SE 7th Avenue and Miller Street
Type of Park: Developed
Why we like it: Grassy park with tall trees, fallen logs, various shrub and flower habitats, and a rolling hill of native oaks to explore. Be sure to check out the forested bluff trail at the north end of the park that leads into the Oaks Bottom Wildlife Refuge
About this site: On-site parking available. Flat and hilly areas with paved and unpaved trails.
Sellwood Riverfront Park
Location: SE Spokane Avenue and Oaks Park Way
Type of Park: Hybrid park - both developed spaces and natural area
Why we like it: Direct beach access to the Willamette River, numerous tree species, variety of song bird, water fowl and raptor species, soft surface and paved trail access, sand and water play, pond and wetland, rare and native amphibians, woolly bear caterpillars, garter snakes, Clown Millipedes, rotting logs for insect and spider hunting, open grassy areas, uneven terrain, forested trails that connect to Sellwood Park and Oaks Bottom Wildlife Refuge, year-round bathroom and water access.
About this site: Be mindful that the dog park is adjacent to the river, and there are a lot of off-leash dogs in both places. Please watch for pet waste near the park. On-site parking available. Flat with paved trails and stairs to the beach.
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Tideman Johnson Natural Area
Location: SE 37th Avenue and Tenino Street
Type of Park: Natural area
Why we like it: Hike down a boardwalk into a dense river habitat of trees, shrubs, and wetland plants.
About this site: Street parking only. Sloping soft surface trails. Watch for bicycles along Springwater Corridor trail.
Westmoreland Park
Location: SE 22nd Avenue and Bybee Boulevard
Type of Park: Developed Park
Why we like it: Variety of birds, tree species, plants, creek, bridges, casting pond, open grass spots for running, ducks, geese, squirrels, lots of edges with leaf litter for insect and spider hunting, access to a full nature playground with loose parts, variety of flowers and blooms in spring and summer, wetland edges to the creek, restoration areas, spawning salmon in the fall.
About this site: This is a very busy park. Consider including a good one to two hours for your group to enjoy the nature playground after your walk! Parking can be an issue because of the popularity of the spot and proximity to the neighborhood. Mostly flat with paved and soft surface paths. Accessible bathrooms available.
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Central Southeast Portland
(south of Burnside Street between SE Cesar Chavez Boulevard and SE 82nd Avenue)
Brentwood Park
Location: SE 60th Avenue near Duke Street
Type of Park: Developed park
Why we like it: This park has open fields and trees for exploring, but also has some hidden spaces like the north end with small hills and interesting edges along fences.
About this site: Street parking only.The dog park in this park is fenced, which helps with loose dogs interrupting programs. Mostly flat with paved trails. Adjacent to Lane Middle School.
Clinton Park
Location: SE 55th Avenue and Woodward Street
Type of Park: Developed
Why we like it: Grassy park with sports fields and many maples, hawthorns, and pines to explore.
About this site: Street parking only. Mostly flat. Adjacent to Franklin High School.
Creston Park
Location: SE 44th Avenue and Powell Blvd
Type of Park: Developed
Why we like it: Forested park with tall conifer trees, sloping hills, and interesting edges to explore.
About this site: On-site parking available. Flat to hilly with paved trails.Adjacent to Creston Elementary School.
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Errol Heights Park
Location: SE 52nd Avenue and Tenino Street
Type of Park: Natural area
Why we like it: Variety of tree species, varied terrain, birds, wildlife, extensive natural area with trails, creek with bridges to search for macroinvertebrates, open wetland for beaver chew and beaver dam viewing.
About this site: Street parking only. Some minor up and down slopes along a soft surface trail.
Essex Park
Location: SE 79th Avenue and Center Street
Type of Park: Developed Park
Why we like it: Large grassy area with tall pine, cedars, maple and other trees to explore.
About this site: Street parking only. Mostly flat with paved paths.
Flavel Park
Location: SE 75th Avenue and Flavel Street
Type of Park: Developed
Why we like it: Grassy field with variety of pine, maple, and other trees to explore.
About this site: Street parking only. Mostly flat with paved path. Adjacent to Whitman Elementary School.
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Harney Park
Location: SE 67th Avenue and Harney Street
Type of Park: Developed Park
Why we like it: Grassy park with maple, beech, linden and other trees to explore.
About this site: On-site parking available. Mostly flat with soft surface paths.
Mt. Scott Park
Location: SE 72nd Avenue and Harold Street
Type of Park: Developed park
Why we like it: Grassy park with a canopy of many tall Doug-fir trees to explore.
About this site: Street parking only. Most flat with paved trails.
Mt. Tabor Park
Location: SE 60th Avenue and Salmon Street
Type of Park: Hybrid park - both developed spaces and natural area
Why we like it: Central location to both SE and NE Portland, covered shelter available, many hiking trails, variety of trees, plants, large variety of birds, volcanic history/volcanic rock - great geological spot, many secret spots to play, explore, open grassy areas, fields, uneven landscapes, rotting logs, brush piles, rocky areas for insect, spider hunting, squirrels, seeds, sequoia, cherry trees, small creek during rainy season, running water and full restrooms available year-round, scenic views of downtown and east Portland.
About this site: One of Portland's busiest and most popular parks! Keep in mind there are numerous park entrances - make sure drivers, buses, carpools know where to meet. On-site parking available. Hilly with paved and soft-surface trails.
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Sewallcrest Park
Location: SE 31st Avenue and Market Street
Type of Park: Developed
Why we like it: Grassy park with maples, apple, and cedar trees to explore.
About this site: Street parking only. Mostly flat. Be mindful of off-leash dog area that encompasses much of the park.
Woodstock Park
Location: SE 47th Avenue and Steele Street
Type of Park: Developed park
Why we like it: Variety of trees, open spaces for running and play, uneven terrain (slight), edges with leaf litter for insect and spider hunting, lots of street parking, squirrels, urban birds.
About this site: Street parking only. Mostly flat with paved trails. Be mindful of off-leash dog park. Adjacent to Woodstock Elementary School.
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Outer Southeast Portland
(south of Burnside Street and east of SE 82nd Avenue)
Berrydale Park
Location: SE 92nd Avenue at Taylor Street
Type of Park: Developed park
Why we like it: Grassy park with variety of types of trees here, lots of edges for exploration and open spaces and fields
About this site: Street parking only. Mostly flat with no trails. Adjacent to Creative Science School and community garden.
Bloomington Park
Location: SE Steele Street at 100th Avenue
Type of Park: Developed park
Why we like it: Grassy park with large variety of oak trees and others to explore.
About this site: Street parking only. Mostly flat with paved parks.
Cherry Park
Location: SE 110th Avenue and Stephens Street
Type of Park: Developed park
Why we like it: Grassy park with a forested section of a wide variety of conifers and deciduous trees for exploring.
About this site: Mostly flat. Street parking only. Light, soft surface trails. Near Cherry Park Elementary School.
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Earl Boyles Park
Location: east of SE 107th Avenue and Francis Street
Type of Park: Developed park
Why we like it: Large grassy areas with tall Douglas-fir and younger ash, dogwood, and maple trees.
About this site: Street parking only. Mostly flat with paved paths. Adjacent to Earl Boyles Elementary School and Ron Russell Middle School.
Ed Benedict Park
Location: SE 100th Avenue and Powell Blvd
Type of Park: Developed Park
Why we like it: Large grassy areas for exploring with variety of trees. The adjacent Portland Memory Garden is a public space with many different plants to delight the senses throughout all four seasons.
About this site: Mostly street parking with two parking spaces. Mostly flat with paved paths.
Glenwood Park
Location: SE 87th Avenue and Claybourne Street
Type of Park: Developed
Why we like it: Grassy park with large oaks, maples, and other trees to explore.
About this site: Street parking only. Mostly flat with soft surface paths. Adjacent to Kelly Elementary School.
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Harrison Park
Location: SE 84th Avenue and Harrison Street
Type of Park: Developed
Why we like it: Large grassy park with sycamores, maples, and other trees to explore.
About this site: Street parking only.Mostly flat with paved paths. Adjacent to Harrison Park Elementary School.
Leach Botanical Garden
Location: 6704 SE 122nd Avenue
Type of Park: Botanical garden
Why we like it: Extensive botanical garden with pollinator habitat, Mediterranean garden, succulent garden, Pacific Northwest native forest, and creek to explore.
About this site: Hilly terrain with paved and unpaved paths.On-site parking available. From SE 122nd Ave turn east on SE Claybourne St. The Main parking lot is the first right, and a second Visitor parking lot is just a bit further on the left.
Lents Park
Location: SE 92nd Avenue and Holgate Blvd
Type of Park: Developed
Why we like it: Grassy park with rolling hills and variety of tall trees. New nature patch with shrubs, fungi, grasses, and other natural features to explore.
About this site: On-site parking and street parking available. Sloping trails with paved paths.
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Lincoln Park
Location: SE 135th Avenue and Mill Street
Type of Park: Developed
Why we like it: Forest-like park with tall tree canopy of Douglas-fir trees and others to explore.
About this site: Street parking only.Mostly flat with paved paths. Adjacent to Lincoln Park Elementary School.
Lynchwood Park
Location: SE 170th Avenue and Haig Street
Type of Park: Developed
Why we like it: Grassy park with diverse mix of trees to explore.
About this site: Street parking only. Mostly flat with paved paths. Adjacent to Powell Butte Elementary School.
Midland Park
Location: SE 122nd Avenue and Morrison Street
Type of Park: Developed park with nature patch
Why we like it: Forested park with new nature patch, log and boulder exploration, rock garden, prairie habitat and pollinator meadow.
About this site: Street parking only. Mostly flat with soft surface trails.
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Mill Park
Location: SE 117th Avenue and Mill Court
Type of Park: Developed park
Why we like it: Large grassy park with hawthorn, fir, plum and other trees to explore.
About this site: Street parking only. Mostly flat with soft surface trails.Adjacent to Mill Park Elementary School.
North Powellhurst Park
Location: SE 135th Avenue and Main Street
Type of Park: Developed park
Why we like it: Forested park with grassy areas and tall Douglas-fir, maples, cherry and other trees to explore.
About this site: Street parking only.Mostly flat with soft surface trails.Adjacent to North Powellhurst Elementary school.
Powell Butte Nature Park
Location: SE 162nd Avenue and Powell Boulevard
Type of Park: Natural area
Why we like it: This nature park features summits with great views, rich history and geological importance, large variety of local birds, butterflies, dragonflies, numerous spots to hunt for insects, spiders and animal signs, deer, raptors, rich field and forest habitat, variety of forest types, native trees, accessible bathrooms and water available at visitor's center, numerous trail head options.
About this site: The best parking is off SE 162nd Avenue and Powell Boulevard, then it is a 20-minute hike to either the forested area or the top. This is a common mountain bike site, so running into bikes on trails is likely. There is a thick layer of stinging nettle along the trail in sections. Hilly with both paved and soft surface trails.
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Raymond Park
Location: SE 118th Avenue and Raymond Street
Type of Park: Developed Park
Why we like it: Grassy park with variety of ash, oak, plum, and dogwood trees to explore.
About this site: Street parking only. Mostly flat with paved trails.
Ventura Park
Location: 460 SE 113th Avenue
Type of Park: Developed park
Why we like it: Grassy park with various flowers and maple, birch, oak and other trees to explore.
About this site: Street parking only. Mostly flat with paved trails.Adjacent to Ventura Park Elementary School.
Verdell Burdine Rutherford Park
Location: SE 165th Avenue and Market Street
Type of Park: Developed park
Why we like it: Grassy park with new playground and cedar, fir, maple and other trees to explore.
About this site: Street parking only. Adjacent to Lynch Elementary School.
West Powellhurst Park
Location: SE 115th Avenue and Division Street
Type of Park: Developed Park
Why we like it: Grassy park with a few ginkgoes, oaks, hornbeam and other trees to explore
About this site: Adjacent to West Powellhurst Elementary School
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Northwest Portland
(north of Burnside Street and west of the Willamette River)
Couch Park
Location: NW 19th Avenue and Glisan Street
Type of Park: Developed
Why we like it: Grassy park with sloped edges and cedar, cherry, and holly trees to explore.
About this site: Street parking only. Mostly flat with paved trails. Park includes new Universal Access Playground Area. Adjacent to Metropolitan Learning Center.
Forest Heights Park
Location: 2999 NW Miller Road
Type of Park: Developed
Why we like it: Grassy park with ash and beech trees and path into forested area.
About this site: Parking lot and street parking available. Sloped, paved paths with stairs. Adjacent to Forest Park Elementary School.
Forest Park
Location: NW Portland - various trail heads - we like the Holman Lane entrance, the 53rd Ave entrances, and depending on the day/time, Lower Macleay.
Type of Park: Natural area
Why we like it: Natural area contains true areas of deep forest, creek with macroinvertebrates, edges for insect hunting, variety of bird and animal species, variety of native trees, covered area available at Lower Macleay.
About this site: Trails in Forest Park are popular for runners, hikers, and dog walkers - this can make traveling as a large group tricky. Park features both paved and soft surface trails. Some trailheads have parking lots while others are street parking only.
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Hillside Park
Location: 653 NW Culpepper Terrace
Type of Park: Developed
Why we like it: Grassy park with large maples, cedars, sequoia and other trees to explore.
About this site: On-site parking available. Mostly flat to sloping with paved paths.
Wallace Park
Location: NW 26th Avenue and Pettygrove St
Type of Park: Developed Park
Why we like it: Grassy park with rolling hills, flower garden, and tall trees to explore.
About this site: Street parking only. Mostly flat with paved paths.Adjacent to Chapman Elementary School. Be mindful of off-leash dogs.
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Southwest Portland
(south of Burnside Street and west of SW Naito Boulevard)
A Park
Location: SW 21st Avenue and Capitol Hill Road
Type of Park: Developed Park with a nature patch
Why we like it: Large grassy park with new nature patch and variety of tall maples, plums, and other trees to explore.
About this site: Street parking only. Mostly flat with rolling hills on the side.
Albert Kelly Park
Location: SW Dosch Road and Mitchell Street
Type of Park: Hybrid park - both developed spaces and natural area
Why we like it: Park features variety of conifers, hills, uneven terrain, and natural area in the middle with a bridge and creek.
About this site: Street parking only, park is nestled in a neighborhood and easy to miss. Significant hills on both sides of the park. Mostly flat with soft surface trails.
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April Hill Park
Location: SW 58th Ave and Miles St
Type of Park: Hybrid park - both developed spaces and natural area
Why we like it: Variety of tree species, great fall foliage, edge habitat, and a natural area in the far corner of the park with lots of birds and plants. There is a large sequoia tree right near the playground.
About this site: The natural area was recently renovated to contain a boardwalk and spaces for children to get close to the wetland. The playground can be distracting but also offers a fun option for kids after the nature walk. Gentle slopes and flat areas but the natural area is mostly soft-surface trails. Street parking only.
Burlingame Park
Location: SW 12th Avenue and Falcon Street
Type of Park: Developed park
Why we like it: Grassy park nestled into the edge of Interstate 5 and variety of oak, spruce, maples, and other trees to explore.
About this site: Street parking only. Mostly flat with paved trails.
Council Crest Park
Location: SW Council Crest Drive
Type of Park: Hybrid park - both developed spaces and natural area
Why we like it: The highest point in Portland has beautiful views, a large variety of both tall and small trees to explore, and a path into the forested natural area along Marquam trail.
About this site: Hilly with paved and unpaved trails. Street parking only.
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Dickinson Park
Location: SW 55th Avenue and Alfred Court
Type of Park: Hybrid park - both developed spaces and natural area
Why we like it: Grassy park with wooded trails of Northwest native trees and plants as well as long views of the coast range mountains.
About this site: Street parking only. Hilly with soft surface trails.
Duniway Park and Lilac Garden
Location: SW 6th Avenue and Sheridan Street
Type of Park: Developed
Why we like it: Grassy park with sports fields and large garden of lilac trees to visit in springtime! Trails from park lead up through Northwest native trees to Terwilliger Parkway.
About this site: Off street parking available near track. Hilly with paved and soft surface trails.
Gabriel Park
Location: SW 45th Avenue and Vermont Street or Pollinator Meadow entrance off of SW Canby Street.
Type of Park: Hybrid park - both developed spaces and natural area
Why we like it: Park features variety of tree species, hills, varied terrain, sand in the volleyball pit, birds, wildlife, extensive natural area with trails, creek with bridges, macroinvertebrates, open grassy areas for play.
About this site: There are numerous parking lots - be clear with your transportation of your meeting location. Be mindful of off-leash dog areas. Flat and hilly areas with paved and soft surface trails.
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George Himes Park
Location: SW Terwilliger Blvd and Slavin Road
Type of Park: Natural area
Why we like it: Hilly forested hike with river and mountain views and wide variety of native plants to explore such as Douglas-fir, cedar, Oregon grape, snowberry, Indian plum, and sword fern.
About this site: Street parking only. Hilly paved and unpaved paths.
Hamilton Park
Location: SW 45th Avenue and Hamilton Street
Type of Park: Developed Park
Why we like it: Large grassy park with sequoia, oak, and pine trees and wooded area to explore.
About this site: Street parking only.Mostly flat with soft surface paths. Adjacent to Bridlemile Elementary School.
Hillsdale Park
Location: SW 27th Avenue and Hillsdale Highway
Type of Park: Developed
Why we like it: Large grassy park with tall sequoias, cedars, Douglas-firs and others to explore.
About this site: On site parking available. Mostly flat to sloping with paved paths. Adjacent to Robert Gray Middle School.
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Holly Farm Park
Location: 10819 SW Capitol Highway
Type of Park: Developed
Why we like it: Grassy park and plazas with interesting shrubs and mixed trees to explore.
About this site: Street parking only.Mostly flat with paved paths. Near Markham Elementary School.
Hoyt Arboretum
Location: 4000 SW Fairview Boulevard
Type of Park: Hybrid park - both developed spaces and natural area
Why we like it: Extensive variety of both conifer and deciduous tree species, variety of birds and wildlife, creek with bridges in numerous spots, Giant Sequoia, Fairy Forest, the House of Summer, Camperdown Elm, Oak Forest, Pine Forest, stone circle, open fields for play, extensive hills for rolling and running, variety of trails both soft surface and paved, many hiding and secret spots to explore and hunt for squirrels, insects, spiders, and birds. Covered shelter and visitor's center available.
About this site: All parking in Washington Park is Pay-to-Park. It's a big place – you likely will not be able to see everything in one day! Hilly with paved and soft surface trails.
Lair Hill Park
Location: SW 2nd Avenue and Woods Street
Type of Park: Developed
Why we like it: Grassy park with uneven terrain and diversity of cedar, Douglas-fir, oak, and maple trees to explore.
About this site: Street parking only. Sloping park with paved paths. Adjacent to Cedarwood Waldorf School.
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Lesser Park
Location: SW 57th Avenue and Haines Street
Type of Park: Natural area
Why we like it: Forested trails with Pacific Northwest natives to explore.
About this site: Street parking only. Hilly with soft surface trails.
Maricara Natural Area
Location: SW 30th Avenue
Type of Park: Hybrid park - both developed spaces and natural area
Why we like it: Undisturbed natural area with soft surface trails, variety of birds, wildlife, plants, trees, animal signs, rotting logs for insect and spider hunting, quiet - we love this hidden gem in Portland!
About this site: This site is beautiful, but is a bit outside of the city - also, because it contains numerous sensitive areas, all programs are strictly on-trail. There is no bathroom at this site. Flat to sloping soft surface trails. Street parking only.
Marquam Nature Park
Location: SW Marquam Street and Sam Jackson Park Road
Type of Park: Natural area
Why we like it: This natural area park supports an abundance of native plant species, and contains many trails that wind around Marquam Hill, through trees such as Douglas fir, western hemlock, red cedar, and bigleaf maples. There is a shelter with interpretive displays and maps near the entrance.
About this site: Hillysoft surface trails and paved trails. Street parking along various trails.
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Marshall Park
Location: SW 12th Drive off of Taylors Ferry Road
Type of Park: Hybrid park - both developed spaces and natural area
Why we like it: Hilly, uneven surfaces, creek, "dry creek bed" area containing logs and rocks for play, contains variety of trails, access to macroinvertebrate, variety of native trees and plants, variety of birds, access to adjacent Foley-Balmer property where there's good creek access and additional space to explore.
About this site: There are two entrances to this park - the best for gathering is at SW 12th Drive, just off Taylors Ferry Road. Make sure your transportation is aware of where to meet! This site has a porta-potty some of the time. Please check before booking. Street parking only. Hilly soft surface and paved trails.
Spring Garden Park
Location: 3332 SW Spring Garden Street
Type of Park: Developed
Why we like it: New hillside park with grassy area, nature play area of tree logs and stumps , musical chimes, rock scramble, a life-size nest, and flower and shrub-lined paths to explore.
About this site: Street parking only. Hilly paved and soft surface trails. Be mindful that this park has little to no shade.
Woods Memorial Natural Area
Location: SW 45th Avenue and Woods Street
Type of Park: Natural Area
Why we like it: Variety of trees and habitats, a creek, hills and topography, mushrooms in the fall, birds year-round, lots of trails that get children close to nature.
About this site: This site has no bathroom available - although we can order a portapotty for your group the day of your program if you plan far enough in advance. There are numerous entries to the natural area and none of them are the "main" entry point. Street parking only. Hilly with soft surface trails.
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South Portland
(south of Waterfront Park between SW Naito Boulevard and the Willamette River)
Elizabeth Caruthers Park
Location: 3508 S Moody Avenue
Type of Park: Developed Park
Why we like it: Urban park and plaza with large field and a diversity of grasses, shrubs, and small trees to explore.
About this site: Street parking only. Mostly flat with paved trails.
Willamette Park
Location: SW Macadam Avenue and Nebraska Street
Type of Park: Developed park
Why we like it: Grassy park with many tall native oak trees to explore. Towards the south end of the park is a stairway down to the waterfront filled with exciting river ecosystems to explore. Depending on the season, you could find a sandy beach, seashells, treelined edges, and rocky shoreline to investigate.
About this site: On-site, paid parking available. Most flat with paved paths and stairs down to the river.