Blue Lake Park | Portland Metro Area

As the summer heat descends upon Oregon, we all begin to long for a fun day out by the water; however, having younger kids makes this really complicated. If you are looking for a day-long adventure by the water with your little ones, then 101-acre Blue Lake Regional Park near the Columbia River is the destination for you.

While this destination has something for everyone, it also features a gigantic playground made just for kids. Let your kids revel in a day full of frolic with a large nature-themed playground, a discovery garden, and even a spray ground.

Beautiful water lilies and pink lotus bloom on the Blue Lake in the early summer. If you do not have kids, or even if you just want some grown-up fun, Blue Lake also offers paddle boats, canoes, and rowboats for rent.

The park also boasts of a gold-level, world-class, 18-hole disc golf course. As an alternative, you could also enjoy trout fishing, take a refreshing dip in the lake, relax on the beach or partake in sports such as volleyball, soccer, basketball, softball, or horseshoes.

If you are looking for a beautiful wedding destination or a location for a recital or a reception, you can reserve the Lake House.

Open: Year-round from 8 a.m. until legal sunset
Managed by: Portland Metro Regional Park

Amenities&Services: Drinking water, restrooms, playgrounds, garden, picnic sites, Lake House reservation for corporate events and meeting, boats and canoes rentals
Activities: Swimming, boating, hiking, and fishing

Distance from the parking: Short
Road access: Any passenger vehicle
Day-use fees: Yes or annual pass
Restrictions: No pets; Kids under 5 years are not allowed in the lake
Popularity: High

Accommodations: No camping

Elevation: 30 ft (9 m)

Blue Lake Park is located:

14 miles of Portland (downtown)
60 miles north of Salem.

Swimming hole rating: 4 out of 5
Body of Water: Natural lake
Water quality: Transparent
Current: None
Depth: Deep and shallow
Beach: Sand
Water T° (summer): Warm