Family-Friendly Outdoor Adventures in Oregon

Oregon is a paradise for outdoor enthusiasts of all ages. With its diverse landscapes, from lush forests and serene lakes to rugged coastlines and majestic mountains, the state offers countless opportunities for family-friendly adventures. Whether you're looking for a relaxing day in nature or an exciting escapade, here are some of the best family-friendly outdoor adventures in Oregon.

1. Exploring Silver Falls State Park (Photo Credit: Zach Lezniewicz)

Silver Falls State Park, often referred to as the "crown jewel" of Oregon's state parks, is a must-visit for families.

• Activities: Hiking, picnicking, wildlife watching
• Why It's Family-Friendly: The park features the famous Trail of Ten Falls, a relatively easy 7.2-mile loop that passes ten stunning waterfalls. Several shorter, more accessible trails are also available, making it suitable for families with young children.
• Highlights: Walking behind the curtain of water at South Falls and North Falls is an unforgettable experience.

2. Biking the Banks-Vernonia State Trail (Photo Credit: Kelly Sikkema)

The Banks-Vernonia State Trail is a 21-mile multi-use path that offers a safe and scenic biking experience for families.

• Activities: Biking, walking, horseback riding
• Why It's Family-Friendly: The trail is mostly flat, paved, and off-road, making it ideal for kids and beginner cyclists. There are plenty of picnic spots and rest areas along the way.
• Highlights: The Buxton Trestle, a historic railway bridge, provides a fun and educational stop along the trail.

3. Adventuring in Crater Lake National Park (Photo Credit: Amy Hanley)

Crater Lake National Park, home to the deepest lake in the United States, offers spectacular scenery and a range of family-friendly activities.

• Activities: Hiking, boat tours, scenic drives
• Why It's Family-Friendly: The Rim Drive offers numerous pullouts and viewpoints, perfect for family photo opportunities and short walks. The park also offers junior ranger programs to engage children.
• Highlights: Taking a boat tour to Wizard Island, where you can hike and explore the volcanic cinder cone.

4. Playing on the Oregon Dunes (Photo Credit: Zoshua Colah)

The Oregon Dunes National Recreation Area offers a unique landscape of towering sand dunes along the coast, providing endless fun for families.

• Activities: Sandboarding, dune buggy rides, hiking, beachcombing
• Why It's Family-Friendly: The vast expanse of dunes provides a giant playground for kids and adults alike. Dune buggy tours cater to all ages, offering a thrilling yet safe adventure.
• Highlights: Watching the sunset over the dunes and the ocean is a magical experience.

5. Discovering Wildlife at the Oregon Coast Aquarium (Photo Credit: Haroon Ameer)

Located in Newport, the Oregon Coast Aquarium is a fantastic destination for families interested in marine life.

• Activities: Aquarium exhibits, touch pools, educational programs
• Why It's Family-Friendly: Interactive exhibits and touch pools allow children to learn about and engage with marine animals up close. The aquarium also offers daily feedings and animal presentations.
• Highlights: The Passages of the Deep exhibit, where you can walk through a tunnel surrounded by sharks and other sea creatures.

6. Hiking in the Columbia River Gorge (Photo Credit: Elena Kuchko)

The Columbia River Gorge offers breathtaking scenery and a variety of hiking trails suitable for families.

• Activities: Hiking, picnicking, waterfall viewing
• Why It's Family-Friendly: Many trails in the Gorge are short and accessible, making them perfect for families with children. The scenic beauty and numerous waterfalls keep kids entertained and motivated.
• Highlights: Multnomah Falls, the tallest waterfall in Oregon, is a must-see with a short, easy hike to the viewpoint.

7. Paddling on Sparks Lake (Photo Credit: HikerFeed)

Sparks Lake, located near Bend, is a beautiful and serene spot for family-friendly paddling adventures.

• Activities: Canoeing, kayaking, paddleboarding, fishing
• Why It's Family-Friendly: The calm, shallow waters of Sparks Lake are ideal for beginners and young paddlers. The stunning mountain backdrop makes it a picturesque location for a family outing.
• Highlights: Exploring the lake's many inlets and islands, and enjoying a picnic on the shore.

Conclusion

Oregon is an outdoor playground with a wide array of family-friendly adventures. From hiking the picturesque trails of Silver Falls State Park to exploring the unique landscape of the Oregon Dunes, there's something for everyone. These activities not only offer fun and excitement but also provide opportunities for families to bond and create lasting memories in the great outdoors. So pack your gear, gather your loved ones, and embark on an unforgettable adventure in Oregon! For more travel tips check out this page!