Vancouver consistently ranks among the most livable cities in the world, and its expansive network of public parks is a major reason why. From dense, temperate rainforests to meticulously curated urban gardens, the city offers an unmatched variety of green spaces. Locals and visitors alike rely on these natural sanctuaries to escape the concrete, exercise, and connect with the Pacific Northwest landscape.
Whether you are looking for a strenuous mountain hike, a quiet spot to read by the water, or a safe playground for children, the city has a park tailored to your needs. The geography of the region allows for incredible diversity within a short drive or transit ride from downtown. You can transition from a sandy beach to a snow-capped mountain trail in a single afternoon.
This guide is designed to help you navigate the very best outdoor spaces the city has to offer. We have curated a list that highlights not just the famous tourist destinations, but also the hidden neighborhood gems that residents love. Each location offers a unique way to experience the natural beauty that defines the Pacific Northwest.
When planning your visit, it is important to consider the time of year. While Vancouver’s parks are accessible year-round, the summer months offer dry trails and vibrant blooms, whereas the winter brings moody, misty forests and snow-capped peaks. Regardless of when you arrive, having a solid list of destinations ensures you make the most of your time outdoors.
Accessibility is a hallmark of Vancouver’s design. Many of the top parks are easily reachable via public transit or dedicated bike lanes, making them perfect for eco-conscious travelers. You do not need a car to experience the wilderness; often, a short bus ride from downtown will drop you directly at a trailhead.
Below is a comprehensive guide to the most exceptional green spaces in the region. We have included details on what makes each location special, who it is best suited for, and what you should bring with you.
Esther Short Park and Playground
| Address | 605 Esther St, Vancouver, WA 98660 |
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| Maps | Click here |
| Website | Click here |
| Opening Hours | Monday: 5:00 AM – 10:00 PM Tuesday: 5:00 AM – 10:00 PM Wednesday: 5:00 AM – 10:00 PM Thursday: 5:00 AM – 10:00 PM Friday: 5:00 AM – 10:00 PM Saturday: 5:00 AM – 10:00 PM Sunday: 5:00 AM – 10:00 PM |
| Phone | (360) 487-8311 |
I definitely love this park!!! It’s definitely really fun in here!!! There is some buildings that I am interested is the brick bell tower that does have waterfalls in it!!! Which is really cool!!!!! It’s really nice in here located in downtown!!!! It’s really fun out there!!! It does have playground!!! Which is fun!!!! It does have water fountain so that I am thirsty!!! But the problem is somebody put the ice in the fountain, although I am thirsty but that’s ok for me honestly lol, I can still drink it carefully, it’s really nice and fun park out there!!!!!
I came to join a group for a walk around town and to the waterfront. This Park served as the meeting spot as well as for the Scopped Ice Cream Event going on today, July 19 and an entryway to the Street Market. So I'd say it's a great park with beautiful trees for shade and plenty of grassy areas as well as a nice kids play area.
The park is not very big but there is a playground in it and also a lot of seatings. You can find a couple of toilets right by the playgrounds. And also there is a very big tower clock here. Very fancy and classic. There are some coffee and chops on the north side of the playground where you can buy stuff and have a drink. The park location is very close to downtown Vancouver so you can literally walk there with your family and children so they can have some fun after touring the downtown.
What a great park!
Plenty of grass and trees. Fun play areas for kids and walking space for a nice stroll.
The Saturday farmer's market is wonderful. Arts, good food, and plenty of produce from salad fixings to delicious fruits and berries.
All right in the Middle is a revitalized downtown Vancouver.
Go! You're gonna love it.
When I first started working in Vancouver near Esther Short Park in the late 90's, Vancouver's oldest park had become a home for vagrant. George Propstra, Burgerville founder, donated $3.2 million which would be about $6.68 million today. The city raised another $5 million. The bell tower, salmon sculptures, stream water feature, basalt columns, playground, plazas, benches, covered stage... probably would cost $25 million today. For years after the revitalization of the park it was a clean and well maintained park that brought kids and families. Now it has once again become a place where drug addicts and vagrants sleep. There are empty liqueur bottles in the water feature, puke on the rocks and benches, and you feel like you need to spray down the play equipment with bleach. It is still a beautiful park, but it is also gross and disgusting because the homeless piss, puke, and sometimes crap in the park. It is frustrating that the City’s policies enable this. City leadership is spitting on the legacy that George and Carolyn Propstra left to our community and the hard work that former Mayor Royce Pollard put into beautifying Vancouver. It is a shame...
Vancouver Waterfront
| Address | 695 Waterfront Wy, Vancouver, WA 98660 |
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| Maps | Click here |
| Website | Click here |
| Opening Hours | Monday: 5:00 AM – 10:00 PM Tuesday: 5:00 AM – 10:00 PM Wednesday: 5:00 AM – 10:00 PM Thursday: 5:00 AM – 10:00 PM Friday: 5:00 AM – 10:00 PM Saturday: 5:00 AM – 10:00 PM Sunday: 5:00 AM – 10:00 PM |
| Phone | — |
I haven't been down to the river front since it's been renovated...WOW! I didn't recognize the place!! Nice walking path with great views and plenty of places to stop in and check out.
We go here year round, especially on the nice weather months. When the Farmers market is open, it's a bonus. The splash pad is a great place for the kids to cool off, and there's ice-cream close by. Great scenic views of the Columbia River, with boats and airplanes adding to the panorama 😁
We needed a quick stop on our long drive to Seattle. What a wonderful place to stretch our legs. We walked around and had a snack. There are many different restaurants and shops. I need to come back and spend some more time.
Beautiful area. Quiet and not crowded. Lots of food right across the street. Paid street parking was very difficult but I did find a paid parking garage very close by and found it very easy to navigate.
Wonderful, relaxing area. Plenty of room to walk along the riverfront, have a picnic or dine at one of the riverfront restaurants. The nearby parking garage is conveniently located close to the area as street parking is limited
Wintler Community Park
| Address | 6400 SE Beach Dr, Vancouver, WA 98664 |
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| Maps | Click here |
| Website | Click here |
| Opening Hours | Monday: 5:00 AM – 10:00 PM Tuesday: 5:00 AM – 10:00 PM Wednesday: 5:00 AM – 10:00 PM Thursday: 5:00 AM – 10:00 PM Friday: 5:00 AM – 10:00 PM Saturday: 5:00 AM – 10:00 PM Sunday: 5:00 AM – 10:00 PM |
| Phone | (360) 487-8311 |
Winter Community Park is a fun spot if you're looking for a beach close to Portland without driving all the way to the coast. It's a nice place to relax, hang out with friends, or cool off on a warm day. There are restrooms available, and it's a great place for a bbq, drinking, fishing, and enjoying water sports. The biggest downsides are the parking, which fills up quickly, and the amount of litter in some areas, which takes away from the experience. Still, if you go in expecting a laid-back local park instead of a pristine beach, it's a solid place to spend a few hours.
Nice and clean. Bathrooms available. Wasn't too crowded during the week. Able to put up shade tent, but shade trees were also available. Only thing I didnt like was the past 2 times, saw people letting their dogs pee where the kids were playing in the water, then the poor dog had to #2 and dragged their human to the grass because they hadn't taken them for hours, ended up #2 in the grass (per usual) and the human didnt even pick it up.
Walked the waterfront trail west from
Winter park. Great paved walking trail, looks like a great mellow beach area for picnics and swimming. $6 parking fee May thru Sept
Nice mother's day picnic 😊. This is a great place to watch the sun set and there is room on the beach for everyone as well as public restrooms, picnic tables, walking trail and overflowing parking!
Have to.pay for parking in the summer but it's a very nice flat walk along the river. Really enjoyable
Nikkei Park
| Address | 5009 NE 135th Ave, Vancouver, WA 98682 |
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| Maps | Click here |
| Website | Click here |
| Opening Hours | Monday: 5:00 AM – 10:00 PM Tuesday: 5:00 AM – 10:00 PM Wednesday: 5:00 AM – 10:00 PM Thursday: 5:00 AM – 10:00 PM Friday: 5:00 AM – 10:00 PM Saturday: 5:00 AM – 10:00 PM Sunday: 5:00 AM – 10:00 PM |
| Phone | (360) 487-8311 |
Great walking park. Areas of shade and areas open to the sky. Enough pathways to do a full outside walk but also shorter paths to do littler walks. Basketball court. Picnic tables. One restroom (Portland-style potty). Found parking easily.
As someone who has been to Backyard Terrors and Dinosaur Park in Johnson City, TN and Dinosaur Park in Rapid City, SD, I absolutely love that we have our own dinosaurs here in Vancouver! I would’ve loved this as a kid!
Great playground with dinosaurs to climb in and a huge rock formation to climb as well. Has become a new favorite, especially since my kid LOVES sand pits.
Fantastic family park for the dinosaur lovers! Dinosaur Park is the "Nick name" for my family! Highly recommended park.
Only downfall, during peak season, expect to park at the elementary school parking lot.
Parents also, sand sand sand 😆
Otherwise Fantastic open fields, walking paths and basketball court!
The park is so nice, its dino themed! 🦖🦕 "Beware" there is a sand pit if you dislike sand. The paly structure is fun and fitted for the climber. There is also a small work out area for the gym enthusiasts. We had a blast, there was a party going on when we got there so there so plenty of energy going on. There is one small restroom if needed in the front of the park near the parking lot. My favorite aspect of the park is the rubber grounds, my son's and I hate tanbark. Plus we forgot Noe Noes shoes, so rubber grounds are safe for 1 year olds granted its overcast. ☁️ highly recommend coming and checking this one out.
LeRoy Haagen Memorial Community Park
| Address | 13412 NE LeRoy Haagen Memorial Drive, Vancouver, WA 98684 |
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| Maps | Click here |
| Website | Click here |
| Opening Hours | Monday: 5:00 AM – 10:00 PM Tuesday: 5:00 AM – 10:00 PM Wednesday: 5:00 AM – 10:00 PM Thursday: 5:00 AM – 10:00 PM Friday: 5:00 AM – 10:00 PM Saturday: 5:00 AM – 10:00 PM Sunday: 5:00 AM – 10:00 PM |
| Phone | (360) 487-8311 |
Finally remembered the park that I've been to is this park when I was younger, I would say that I've been to this park when I was 7 I believe, great trails, very nice, nice playground, I've been to the playground but I have remembered in my brain, I've been to the grey slide but too slippery but I was scared of going to the slippery slide like the hole in it when I was younger, right now, not anymore, it feels calm out here, I’ve remembered the bathroom in the shade that I’ve remembered, so, this Park does have the great memory, also the very nice trail.
Great park, good walking trails, trees and grass and plenty of space. There is a playground and basketball area. The bathrooms were closed, probably for winter.
Enjoyed the park and its lovely metal jungle gym. The metal slides where so retro, I thought they where all gone. But I was gladly mistaken. The field is well maintained and lush. A very lovely park.
I was really impressed with how large this park is! I thought the front section by the parking lot entrance was spacious, but then as I walked along the paved trail, it led to yet another open field section; this field had squirrels and birds galore, another playground, as well as some small wooded areas with tall mature trees. You will find lots of old Douglas Firs here...they are literally everywhere throughout the park. Benches line the paved trail, and picnic tables can be found mostly around the playground areas.
After I did some reading about this park, I found out that it is one of Vancouver's largest parks at almost 30 acres! I definitely recommend this park! 👍🏼
PS: I read there is a garden here too, so I will put updated photos in a few months when the flowers are in full bloom. 🪻🌷
We had my grandson's birthday here and it was great. Plenty of room for multiple families. The grandkids all had a great time. The park overall is very taken care of and a great place to hang out with family, kids and even by yourself.
Leverich Park
| Address | 4400 NE Leverich Park Way, Vancouver, WA 98663 |
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| Maps | Click here |
| Website | Click here |
| Opening Hours | Monday: 5:00 AM – 10:00 PM Tuesday: 5:00 AM – 10:00 PM Wednesday: 5:00 AM – 10:00 PM Thursday: 5:00 AM – 10:00 PM Friday: 5:00 AM – 10:00 PM Saturday: 5:00 AM – 10:00 PM Sunday: 5:00 AM – 10:00 PM |
| Phone | (360) 487-8311 |
Came back for a birthday party 6/13/26 after what seemed like 10 or 15 years. The park has changed a bit since 2010...Covid and the unhoused among us had been rough on Leverich: Bathrooms? Out of order (actually locked up) and no porta potties. There’s no water, and the covered area is still pretty rough and some unhoused brothers and sisters still sleep there during the night and some during the day, so be mindful. Garbage cans were overflowing also. The playground is fine, disc golf greens are still here, and the picnic tables haven't wandered off. I still don't think the City has maintained the park like others in town (David Douglas, Evergreen, Hazel Dell). Plus it's not exactly quiet here as it's adjacent to I-5. Still not a bad place to go hang out or play disc golf.
I had fun with my daughter Sage, a lot of little corners to explore and it was just a beautiful day. It's fun to people watch too as there are disc golfers and the burnt Bridge Creek trail runs along but no bad energy as some of the trail has. Thankful for all the beautiful parks Vancouver has to offer, very impressed on how they are maintained and they're all different which is an amazing feat with how many there are. Definitely one to check out though!
The highlight of this park, in my opinion, are the mature trees throughout. I realize that in the winter months I am not able to capture the full beauty of these trees, nor of the greenways along the paved walking trails. I would like to see how it differs in the early summer months.
This park is large and has many open areas, including several disc golf courses throughout. There are also various bridges (I saw 3) that cross over Burnt Bridge Creek, which always adds to a parks overall scenery.
There is a downside to this review, however. Maybe it's just the time of year; that remains to be seen, but unfortunately, I saw lots of trash, particularly along areas where there are homeless encampments. I truly wish everyone would do their part in preserving parks and recreational areas by simply picking up after themselves. It's free and requires very little effort.
I truly hope the downsides to this park will be addressed so that families can feel safe here and enjoy the beauty of the mature landscape. 🌲
Brought my 2 year old to scoot and play on the jungle gym. They need like 6-8 more inches of bark chips. The structure is too high even for me in some places. Also, the big covered area had tons of rodent poop and I just got the impression that this place was kind of neglected. It’s a shame, because I can see how it would be a nice spot. We didn’t partake in disc golf at all.
Really another great course for the Portland/Vancouver area. There are so many greats. Its a short to medium course with a lot of elevation change. Be prepared to hike uphill. Great shot shaping and its absolutely gorgeous.
Cascade Park
| Address | 12882-12970 SE Laver St, Vancouver, WA 98683 |
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| Maps | Click here |
| Website | Click here |
| Opening Hours | Monday: 5:00 AM – 10:00 PM Tuesday: 5:00 AM – 10:00 PM Wednesday: 5:00 AM – 10:00 PM Thursday: 5:00 AM – 10:00 PM Friday: 5:00 AM – 10:00 PM Saturday: 5:00 AM – 10:00 PM Sunday: 5:00 AM – 10:00 PM |
| Phone | (360) 487-8311 |
This 3.5-acre neighborhood park is well maintained and peaceful! It is right next to Crestline Elementary School, which also has its own field, so this park can seem larger than 3.5 acres because of that.
There are a variety of activities that you can do here. For the kids there is a nice playground with some cool looking play equipment that I wish were on the playgrounds back in my day 😀, picnic tables near the playground area, and benches throughout the paved walking trail, open green spaces both shaded and in the sun, and also beautiful, mature fir trees as well as other colorful landscape budding for spring that encompasses the entirety of the park.
I had a wonderful time here, and I think you will, too! 🦋
I like neighborhood parks like this because they don't have parking lots, which is inconvenient, but means they're seldom crowded. The kids play equipment is good here. The park is clean and well kept. There isn't much in amenities for older kids beyond room to throw a ball or Frisbee so bring your own entertainment. I didn't see a grill but there is tables for a picnic.
This is a nice little neighborhood park with a big green open space and lots of trees for shade as well. The playground is great for climbing on. There is a natural playground area where you can climb on logs. There's a fun swing too.
Doesn't have lots of equipment but is fun for kids another spot to hang out
Great little park. Neighborhood was quiet. Play structure aimed towards age 5 and up. Three picnic tables and 4 benches. Large enough grass area to roam around.
Oakbrook Park
| Address | 3103 NE 99th Ave, Vancouver, WA 98662 |
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| Maps | Click here |
| Website | Click here |
| Opening Hours | Monday: Open 24 hours Tuesday: Open 24 hours Wednesday: Open 24 hours Thursday: Open 24 hours Friday: Open 24 hours Saturday: Open 24 hours Sunday: Open 24 hours |
| Phone | — |
This park is SO much fun! The kids loved it! So many fun and cool things to do. They were entertained for a while! 😍 we are always willing to give parks a try! And seeing some cool different structures will have us going back!! A must try!
Oakbrook Park is a great addition to the area. The park feels very new, clean, and well designed. The playground is modern and perfect for kids, and it’s always nice to see families enjoying the space.
There’s plenty of room to walk, relax, or just spend time outdoors. You can tell the park is well maintained and cared for, which makes the experience even better.
Definitely one of the best spots in Vancouver right now, especially if you have kids.
Lovely modern park with no tanbark, climbing areas and big beautiful slide. The field surrounding it is big and has large trees. A must visit for parents and park lovers alike. BIG problem! Bathroom unavailable after 3 pm. Seems outrageous!Bathroom should be available from sunrise sunset! What happened?
A beautiful and inviting park. With a playground that draws children and adults. Where walks, talks, children playing, silent contemplation happen all the time. Benches throughout. The homes that surround the park are gracefully maintained.
This park is well appointed. I like it very much. 🙂
I love this park, and the neighborhood. It is the closest park to my apartment, but I am on the other side of the freeway, which means I need to drive. (the promised pedestrian bridge got forgotten years ago, to connect Oak Brook and Kevanna Park, it would have been so nice to walk or bike over. There is no place to park at Oak Brook, without encroaching on the residents, and I refuse to do that to them. This was a neighborhood park that was taken by the city. While I appreciate the upgrades, maybe the city could remember Kevanna Park exists, and the people in the multi family builds, still count, the residential portion isn't just the SFH, we got over 2000 residents on 109th, that's not counting the SFH or the illegal condos on Morrow Road cough cough that aren't really apartments and got 12 years tax free cough cough
Anywayyyyy the city sucks, but Oak Brook, I love your park, your neighborhood, the whole vibe, I have for decades, keep being a diverse mix of housing and people, the community shows. As much as I despise the city, I can't give ya'll less than you deserve
Vancouver Lake Regional Park
| Address | 6801 NW Lower River Rd, Vancouver, WA 98660 |
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| Maps | Click here |
| Website | Click here |
| Opening Hours | Monday: 7:00 AM – 7:00 PM Tuesday: 7:00 AM – 7:00 PM Wednesday: 7:00 AM – 7:00 PM Thursday: 7:00 AM – 7:00 PM Friday: 7:00 AM – 7:00 PM Saturday: 7:00 AM – 7:00 PM Sunday: 7:00 AM – 7:00 PM |
| Phone | (564) 397-2285 |
5 stars! We had such a wonderful time at the lake with my wife and baby. The place was peaceful, clean, and perfect for a relaxing family day. The scenery was beautiful, and it was a great spot to make special memories together. We also enjoyed cooking BBQ while spending quality time together as a family. The fresh air and calm atmosphere made the experience even better. Definitely a place we would love to visit again!
We come here for a few rowing regattas every late-winter thru spring and it is always beautiful. Peaceful spot to enjoy nature, birds, and views.
Love this park but honestly on the weekend there is always so many people here. However if you keep walking the trail and you take little turns and go on a mini side quest, somehow you will end up at a bridge over a little river/stream. It is so so green and if you go a little behind the bridge, you can find a little train that leads down to the body of water. Definitely a longer walk and took an hour to get to the spot but it was so worth it.
Great park. Beach grassy areas volleyball woodsy areas kayaking fishing watch the crew teams saw 3 bald eagles paddled to Felida Moorage and back
Expansive grassy areas that are clean and maintained... Spacious covered areas with sink and large grill, great for large parties or gatherings, that can be reserved. Nice volleyball nets setup and available to jump onto and play or they can be reserved also, plus a large playground area with play structure 🌞
Pacific Community Park
| Address | 1515 NE 164th Ave, Vancouver, WA 98684 |
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| Maps | Click here |
| Website | Click here |
| Opening Hours | Monday: 7:00 AM – 8:00 PM Tuesday: 7:00 AM – 8:00 PM Wednesday: 7:00 AM – 8:00 PM Thursday: 7:00 AM – 8:00 PM Friday: 7:00 AM – 8:00 PM Saturday: 7:00 AM – 8:00 PM Sunday: 7:00 AM – 8:00 PM |
| Phone | (360) 397-2285 |
So much I love about this park! For starters it is massive, and bordered by tree groves and a place in the center of the park also has tall majestic trees. All of them provide lovely shade for people and pets alike who are playing or picnicking at the park. Another great feature is things come in twos…2 restroom buildings, 2 parking lots and bordered by 2 streets. The park is beautifully maintained I must say and what is delightful is you won’t be on top of people with plenty of room for everyone. For dog lovers, the fenced area where dogs can happily run and socialize is huge—the dogs are seen running and romping together at any time and having fantastic play dates. They have so much fun! I love that the space is so large for them to really stretch out. One must walk through the garden area too, it’s lovely and well kept. Truly enjoyable to see what’s growing, the tress, the flowers, the painted rocks, all of it is most special. This is a place for activities including a baseball field, there’s the skate park area that people fully enjoy, it’s great for a nice walk about, for laying in the grass under the sun or moon. Pacific Community Park is a peaceful, joyful recreational area and I absolutely love coming here!! Community park indeed.
This 60-acre park has everything that makes a park awesome and then some! With all of the amenities this park has to offer, there is something for everyone!👍🏼
There are nice paved walking trails as well as some hiking trails too, several large green spaces that can be used for a variety of activities, beautifully maintained landscape, including several mature fir trees as well as a variety of other trees, including a natural garden area, a nice sized playground in great condition with all the classics and more, a baseball field that looks new, a large picnic shelter with covered seating for 50 people, an 8-acre fully fenced off dog park (Dakota Memorial Dog Park), 11 picnic tables as well as multiple benches throughout the park, abundant parking, 2 half basketball courts, an extreme sports area for skaters and BMXers, and 2 restrooms.
I had a wonderful time visiting this park, and I know you will too! 🌲
Nice park! There's a skatepark kitty corner to the kids play area. There's also a basketball court. Lots of green grass, and chill vibes. It was fun to watch people do tricks on their skateboard while just laying in the grass with my young daughter. She brought her scooter, and was doing some parkour! The skaters stood aside so she could do her little tricks. Nice people, felt safe, and right next door is Dakota dog park. Our dog loves it there too. A must visit park in the Vancouver area near NE 162nd Ave.
I always passed by this park...it's a nice park. Kid friendly, dog friendly (in fenced area), softball field, skateboard area. There is even a community garden space to grow vegetables and things. I liked the flat pathway that's accessible to everyone and the education plots with ideas for your own yard. Very nice park to bring the family for a stroll, picnic or whatever.
This is an absolutely amazing park with lots of open space for dogs to run and roam. About 8 acres with trees and water sources. All the dogs were very friendly. Unfortunately to far from home for us or we would go here all the time. Riley rates this park a ten.
Lewisville Regional Park
| Address | 26411 NE Lewisville Hwy, Battle Ground, WA 98604 |
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| Maps | Click here |
| Website | Click here |
| Opening Hours | Monday: 7:00 AM – 9:00 PM Tuesday: 7:00 AM – 9:00 PM Wednesday: 7:00 AM – 9:00 PM Thursday: 7:00 AM – 9:00 PM Friday: 7:00 AM – 9:00 PM Saturday: 7:00 AM – 9:00 PM Sunday: 7:00 AM – 9:00 PM |
| Phone | (360) 397-2285 |
Perfect Riverside Picnic at Lewisville Regional Park | Shaded Picnic Areas, River Access & Clean Facilities
We were looking for the perfect place to enjoy a relaxing picnic on a hot summer day, and Lewisville Regional Park exceeded our expectations.
We visited on a weekday, so the park wasn’t crowded at all. After paying the $5 daily parking fee at the entrance, we asked the friendly staff a few questions and drove inside to explore the park. There are so many picnic areas that it actually took us a few minutes to decide where to settle. Eventually, we found a quiet, shaded spot with two picnic tables, parking right next to us, clean restrooms nearby, a drinking water fountain, and only about a one minute walk to the river.
The park is very well maintained and offers plenty of picnic tables, BBQ grills, benches, clean restrooms, trash bins and spacious parking areas. One thing I really liked was that if the park isn’t busy, you can choose almost any picnic spot that fits your needs.
There are also around 16 covered picnic shelters with large BBQ grills that can be reserved for family gatherings and group events. When the park isn’t crowded, some of these shelters may be available on a first-come, first-served basis. Open flames and charcoal grills are only allowed in designated areas, but using a small propane camping stove at a regular picnic table was perfectly fine, which worked great for our lunch.
River access varies depending on where you enter. Some areas are easier than others, and we noticed several shallow pools where children were happily playing. The water was refreshing, and many visitors were floating down the river on tubes, creating a fun and relaxing atmosphere.
The park also features baseball fields, tennis courts, walking trails, and plenty of open green space.
If you’re looking for a peaceful riverside picnic, a family outing, or simply a beautiful place to spend a few relaxing hours outdoors, Lewisville Regional Park is an excellent choice. We had a perfect afternoon and would happily return again.
Excellent park, close in,to Vancouver, plenty of parking, lots of trails through the forest and along the Lewis River.
Fee for parking...$5/day. $40/year.
Restrooms available
Handicap ♿️ doable and highly recommended
Final take....Highly recommended
I can't believe this has been right down the street the whole time. I moved here almost a year ago. And i've been wanting to go swimming so badly! It's the perfect swimming lake. Jet skis and recreation. This perfect for outdoor picnics and outings.
I really enjoy th8s park, hiwever it gets crowded quickly. Its recommended to plan ahead to get a lg picnic shelter for family events. Mostly shallow water spots, or some faster current good for tubing down. Watch out for under water branches to poke you. I took a long walking stick to push off the bottom or away from other things. Its hard to get good water spots cause ppl like to spread their stuff put across the whole area like they own the place and not allow other ppl to share. I have a 7 yr old son. I was looking for specific water. I saw 2 young women blocking up an entire swimming hole with things nobody was using. They did have 2 boys about my son's age which would have been perfec5 but they wanted nothing to do with sharing water access. Id suggest arriving early. And please share space. Also pick up your garbage. They have different sized shelters, charcoal BBQ stands. Bathrooms, a playground, large grass area, horshoe pit, baseball field, etc. My family has done all sorts of events there such as my grandma's 80h bday and other big celebrations. Reserving shelters. There's also a trail I have not yet walked but will someday. Years ago Dogs were not allowed due to not wanting their feces to contaminate the water for swimmers. This last visit I saw ppl with dogs at the park. They wernt near the water - so idk 8f that's the difference? However the pay station was closed that ay so maybe ppl snuck their dogs in? Something to look into.
Id recommend a Yearly please for $40 if you plan to go to those parks more than 8 or 10x/ year. ( I cant recall if the basic vehicle was $3 or $5, but it adds ip. And with a pass, you can share ur pass with another car. One at a time tho. Plus it motivates you to get out more : )
One of the most beautiful places to take your kids year around, hiking, biking, picnic, birthday partys, swimming and play grounds
Salmon Creek Regional Park/Klineline Pond
| Address | 1112 NE 117th St, Vancouver, WA 98685 |
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| Maps | Click here |
| Website | Click here |
| Opening Hours | Monday: 7:00 AM – 7:00 PM Tuesday: 7:00 AM – 7:00 PM Wednesday: 7:00 AM – 7:00 PM Thursday: 7:00 AM – 7:00 PM Friday: 7:00 AM – 7:00 PM Saturday: 7:00 AM – 7:00 PM Sunday: 7:00 AM – 7:00 PM |
| Phone | — |
This park has it all. And everyone is so friendly. There is always a positive vibe when I come here. Also a great place to host birthday parties and playdates. Has several tables and empty trash cans and bathrooms.
It is a great place for kids. I wish the splash pad was open more. Was disappointing for my 3 year old. Swimming area can get quite crowded but all the kids are so friendly.
Love this place so peaceful and great place to go with kids especially during the summer! Kids have a blast there and so do the adults cost me $5 for parking!
I've been coming here since the late 80's before they added trails and a sports park, and before it was nearly destroyed by floods in 1996. It's changed a lot. It's a good place to walk the trails, or walk your dog, or take a bike ride. Come in the evening if you really want to get some peace and quiet. You can get some amazing sunsets here, and you can see lots of birds like red wing blackbirds, killdeer, mourning doves, rabbits, and ducks. The trails are really nice. There's more walking and trails than you think for a smallish place. There's a very nice park for picnics as well. The pond is good for mostly fishing during Spring and Summer when they stock it. You can swim here, but the water can be gross at times from the birds and fish. They also have the Spring Fishing Derby here in April which is amazing for kids. Yes, they charge you for parking here in the peak months. Overall a nice place to come kick back, swim, fish, picnic, bike, walk your dog, or watch some ball games in the Spring.
This park is absolutely gorgeous! It's perfect for a variety of activities such as fishing (alot of people were fishing while I was here), picnics and BBQ's, birthday parties; there is a splash pad here for the kids along with a designated swimming area too, walking, biking, and taking the dog for a nice walk just to name a few. You will definitely get plenty of exercise here while exploring all the many trails. There is literally something for everyone of all ages, as you will see from my photos/videos.
This park is a part of the Salmon Creek Greenway Trail, which is just beautiful, and one of my favorite local spots to frequent. All sorts of wildlife can be found along the greenway. I have captured photos of deer, turtles, a variety of bird species, squirrels, muskrats, and today, my husband and I saw a beaver! We saw the damage it did to a tree first though. 😳
If you have not been here, GO! It is one of my favorite areas in Salmon Creek.👍🏼
Orchards Community Park
| Address | 9800 NE 54th St, Vancouver, WA 98662 |
|---|---|
| Maps | Click here |
| Website | Click here |
| Opening Hours | Monday: 7:00 AM – 9:00 PM Tuesday: 7:00 AM – 9:00 PM Wednesday: 7:00 AM – 9:00 PM Thursday: 7:00 AM – 9:00 PM Friday: 7:00 AM – 9:00 PM Saturday: 7:00 AM – 9:00 PM Sunday: 7:00 AM – 9:00 PM |
| Phone | (360) 397-2000 |
Fairly well maintained and chill place. Usually no issues with people or police or park crews hassling us even when we go through our vehicles or park for long periods of time as long as we're gone by dark... Porta John has a tendency to be filthy unfortunately and I wish I could say I was surprised but it seems to be a common occurrence with many public restrooms so that doesn't count against it.
Plenty of parking. For the most part, the trails are well kept though some places they're overgrown with brabbles and scrub. Compared to some walking parks, people are pretty good about picking up after their dogs. So, bring your own poop bags!
My main reason for going here was for the community RC area, with. Fast track and a crawler space. It's great to know there is a place local to run an RC truck with out having to leave town. Crawler space is set up for 1/10 scale. Smaller RC's may have more of a challenge.
Easily one of the most beautiful parks i’ve ever been to! This park is only a 3 minute drive from my house, and being fairly new to the area, I have been trying to hit every park around here. This one so far is my favorite. Theres lots of little trails throughout the foresty areas, there’s lots of picnic benches and charcoal for a family get together, theres two little playgrounds, and lots of grassy areas. Only took one of my pups here today, but definitely will be coming back with my other dogs!
The only thing I would be weary of is displaced people in their tents in some areas of the forest.
Very beautiful park with nice clean trails. The main trail that goes around the park is maybe like 1 mile long but there are also many between trails. There is a play area for kids as well as a large area for events/parties that includes 2 grills. Not very large park but offers everything and it's very accessible to the community. If you're going walking i suggest you walk through the mall and around to cross the freeway bridge to get to the park. 10/10 😊
Frenchman's Bar Regional Park
| Address | 9612 NW Lower River Rd, Vancouver, WA 98660 |
|---|---|
| Maps | Click here |
| Website | Click here |
| Opening Hours | — |
| Phone | (360) 397-2285 |
This is a great day park to go play. Its $5 to park for the day or you can buy an annual pass for $40. I've only heen to the first parking lot area because its smaller and away from the families and groups for most part. But if you are there for the family aspect it appears to be a great spot. Everyone seems to be having fun and enjoying themselves. There a pkay structure, volleyball net, a really decent size covered structure and easy access to the beach from the trail that you can get to from parking lot. Next to parking lot is men's and women's bathrooms. Women's has 6 or 7 stalls. Theres always been toilet paper stocked when ive used it and they keep it pretty cleaned up. I've never seen it messy or unkempt. Depending on how you choose to access beach area or which trail you take the further to the right the less people. Dogs are allowed but keep leash with you to be able to leash pup up if other dogs come around. I throw stick for my dog into water for hours so he can swim. In and out in and out. Theres a lot of seaweed or Riverbend? It washed up on the shore. As long as the area isnt high the seaweed isnt a big deal. Not much shade bhf there is a woodsy area but its back from the water edge and not great shade throwing trees. The sand is great for walking or playing. Nice and soft. Not rocky at all. I am happy to have found this place to go.
Oh yes there is the large parking area a bit further down the way and that's where ive noticed more family's and groups tend to go. But haven't been over there myself.
Totally work the parking fee. Which I forgot to mention you can use your credit debit card in first mach8ne. The second takes cash. Dont know if you need exact change or not so take a five dollar bill in case. Or is youre early enough theres an attendant to help you.
Park opens I think around 7 am and closes at dusk. The park volunteer closes one side of the entrance gate when its too late to go play.
Check it out. Its a chill play place.
Beautiful for sunset views and the water is pretty clean. But the beach itself, the Sandy area, is a bit dirty with debris. Starbucks
Frenchman’s Bar Regional Park is absolutely beautiful. The park is spacious, scenic, and beautifully laid out, with six big sand volleyball courts set right along the river. There are smooth, paved trails that are perfect for walking, skating or biking, a large playground with jungle gym and swings, plus a sandy beach area where you can get right down to the water. The grassy areas are massive and well maintained, making it easy to spread out and relax without feeling crowded. There are plenty of picnic tables, both under covered shelters and out in the open, as well as bbqs which makes it a great spot for meals or gatherings. Public restrooms are either available or not open and there is a port a potty. Dogs are allowed on a leash, although I did see many off leash once they were further down the beach away from the park. Lots of wildlife to spot! We went on a Wednesday in the middle of the day and it was very empty. Parking was $5. We really enjoyed our visit and will definitely be back.
Lots of parking and picnic areas, great for campfires on the beach and sunset watching, plus great volleyball courts for tourney and vb camps and just playing recreationally 🏐🤙
I rather enjoyed my experience at this park/nature trail. There is something for everyone here. The staff are friendly and helpful. The paths are spacious, in good repair, and kept free of debris by competent park personnel. There are climbing structures, picnic tables, event areas, a beach volleyball/badminton/net sports area, scenic viewpoint, and nature galore along the mighty Columbia River. The trails are accessible and accommodating. As the pathways are primarily in open areas, there is not a lot of shade, so be sure to put on extra sunscreen, maybe wear a hat, and stay hydrated
Marshall Park
| Address | 1069 E McLoughlin Blvd, Vancouver, WA 98663 |
|---|---|
| Maps | Click here |
| Website | Click here |
| Opening Hours | Monday: 10:00 AM – 10:00 PM Tuesday: 10:00 AM – 10:00 PM Wednesday: 10:00 AM – 10:00 PM Thursday: 10:00 AM – 10:00 PM Friday: 10:00 AM – 10:00 PM Saturday: 10:00 AM – 10:00 PM Sunday: 10:00 AM – 10:00 PM |
| Phone | (360) 487-7100 |
Fun park with playground equipment for children with all levels of abilities. We took my 32 year old daughter with Autism to the park and she was able to enjoy many of the swings and the slides.
There are sweet sculptures and bricks with writing from many of the generous donors who helped upgrade the park. A great place for the whole family!
Good place for recreation, especially with kids. You need to monitor them closely, since many age groups are playing around, and some may take a bike on the walking route! Watch out for strangers walking around, as we don’t really know what they want. I have been here alone with my kid and saw some homeless people walking around and watching the kids.
As parents, safety is always a priority for our kids. It is a good place to relax and play; however, since it's easily accessible, please keep an eye on your kids.
I’ve been there for the first time, but there is an ice cream truck near us!!! Makes me feels really happy though, I met my friend at the park because I am very social, chatter, and super intelligent!!! There is some baseball field near me!! The playgrounds are really nice, I can definitely go down the slide by myself lol XD
Bring a picnic blanket and a lunch because this park has plenty to do with ample amounts of shade and places to play. There is usually cardboard to use for riding down the turf hill which is a hit with the kiddos. There is also a covered picnic areas for parties. Not sure if you need to reserve it and bathrooms here. Overall great park
Great playground, lots of trees and shade. It has turf mount the kids can slide from, skateboard track, a variety of swings, carousel, picnic benches, some covered and well maintained bathrooms.
Orchards West Park
| Address | 9201 NE 54th St, Vancouver, WA 98662 |
|---|---|
| Maps | Click here |
| Website | Click here |
| Opening Hours | Monday: 5:00 AM – 10:00 PM Tuesday: 5:00 AM – 10:00 PM Wednesday: 5:00 AM – 10:00 PM Thursday: 5:00 AM – 10:00 PM Friday: 5:00 AM – 10:00 PM Saturday: 5:00 AM – 10:00 PM Sunday: 5:00 AM – 10:00 PM |
| Phone | (360) 487-8311 |
This 13-acre beautifully wooded neighborhood park is located just north of Vancouver Mall, so it's literally close to all kinds of activities, including tons of restaurant options for when you get done playing/walking around the park. There is also easy access to I-205 and SR-500.
This park has multiple old growth fir trees throughout; in fact I would say the majority of trees here have been here for many years, giving this park a secluded feel amongst the city. I would guess that some of the trees are 70+ years old, which automatically makes it a plus in my book.👍🏼
Being winter (yes, March is still winter here in the Pacific Northwest 😊), it was still well maintained.
I saw 3 entrances, a nice size playground in great condition, 3 benches that surround the playground area in which it is also paved, lots of green space; some open and some more shaded amongst the trees, a drinking fountain, and trash can so you can do your part in keeping this park well maintained. 🌲🐕
There is a green park near my house that is ideal for taking morning and evening walks and having fresh air, equipped with a playground for children.
Visited this park Friday 10/16/2020. There are 3 entrances into the park, 2 on 58th st. and 1 on 54th St. On 58th street side there is a large secluded greenery space where I saw a woman with her two dogs off leash. There are pull outs for this park at two of the entrances for Parking, no bathrooms here. Handicap accessible on 54th Street. On 54th street there is a playground (great for young children), 3 benches, a water fountain and a trashcan. A lot of beautiful trees at this park. No walking paths. Park is open from 5am to 10pm daily.
Always well kept, lovely forested area, large place for picnics.
I only take my pup here to do a quick walk and potty break. Nothing spectacular about this park at all but it's completely closed so I'm not worried my dog is going to run away and get hit by a car. Never had any issues with people here. A few sketchy cars park near by ,but never had an issue
Waterfront Park
| Address | 115 SE Columbia Way, Vancouver, WA 98661 |
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| Maps | Click here |
| Website | Click here |
| Opening Hours | Monday: 5:00 AM – 10:00 PM Tuesday: 5:00 AM – 10:00 PM Wednesday: 5:00 AM – 10:00 PM Thursday: 5:00 AM – 10:00 PM Friday: 5:00 AM – 10:00 PM Saturday: 5:00 AM – 10:00 PM Sunday: 5:00 AM – 10:00 PM |
| Phone | (360) 487-8311 |
It's a beautiful place to gather with friends, to enjoy the scene, or to just walk alone.
This park is part of the Waterfront Renaissance Trail, so you know it's awesome!! It is also a photographers dream at sunset!
It offers scenic views of the Columbia River, Mt. Hood, the city of Vancouver, the I-5 Bridge, and sooo much more! You really just need to come and spend the day here to truly see just how captivating this place is!
Several grassy areas filled with a variety of beautiful trees are literally everywhere. Ducks and geese galore swarm both land and water, and squirrels occupy just about every tree! There are benches throughout, so you can sit and take in the wonder of it all. It truly is impossible to not have an amazing time seeing that there is something for everyone here!
Restaurants and shopping are in abundance too being within walking distance to downtown Vancouver. The architecture is also worthy of noting. A lot of love and creativity was put into this park; that is for sure.
If you have not been here, it's time to go! You will not be disappointed, and you will come back again and again; season after season! 👍🏼
A beautiful place where you can take a lovely stroll along the Columbia River. 😍 Great spot for taking beautiful pictures📷 Many new restaurants where you can enjoy a 🍷or🍻 and some tasty food right along the river's edge with a great view of the river and everything that floats on it⛵🛥. A scenic walkway that stretches along the bank of the river. Has a very unique waterfall design 💦👍 Also towards the end has a structure that looks like the bow of a ship that juts out over the river. Very cool👌Even has a children's play area. There was a musician playing a guitar! This idea will grow for it is an idyllic spot to watch the river and listen to music. So family-friendly👨👩👦👦 I really love all the restaurants and the great seating that each one has. Absolutely cool vibe and I would visit often if I lived near by. I'm was there in the afternoon but I'm sure it has many great 🌅s. The area is still being developed but once completed and it becomes more established, it will be more crowded. When I visited the park, it felt like it was mine to explore because there were not many visitors that day. Definitely worth 5⭐s. Easy parking along the street. Don't forget to check out the pictures!
Great Waterfront location, but Vancouver Park & Rec - Why is everything in the city being in-watered and left to die?
This is the Waterfront I remember. Not as upscale or flashy as the new development, but hugely nostalgic. I have a lot of great memories here, and it does look like construction is underway to connect it to the newer sections of the waterfront trail. It will be interesting to see developments over the next few years.
David Douglas Park
| Address | 1016 N Garrison Rd, Vancouver, WA 98664 |
|---|---|
| Maps | Click here |
| Website | Click here |
| Opening Hours | Monday: 5:00 AM – 10:00 PM Tuesday: 5:00 AM – 10:00 PM Wednesday: 5:00 AM – 10:00 PM Thursday: 5:00 AM – 10:00 PM Friday: 5:00 AM – 10:00 PM Saturday: 5:00 AM – 10:00 PM Sunday: 5:00 AM – 10:00 PM |
| Phone | (360) 487-8311 |
Good space to walk a dog or get a quick trail walk done. Large park for athletics. The only thing I think they could improve is repaving the gravel - it’s very uneven in places and I wouldn’t recommend for taking a stroller. If you want a quiet day, it’s best when cloudy out.
Nice park with a nice paved trail that circles the entire park. There are 3 separate baseball fields and a large grassy area. Public restrooms are on-site but closed on the Wednesday in November that I was there. There is also a concession stand on-site for game day snacks. Lots of on-site parking.
It looks like it is a little league baseball park maybe they have other kinds of parks games played there at different seasons. My husband and I use it when we pick up a burger and want to eat it while it's hot we go over to that little park and just enjoy it let our dog run on his leash and then we leave we don't have children so we've never used it that way but it's always been a pleasant place to enjoy a natural breeze and nature.
I went to David Douglas hoping to get a quick walk in, and fell in love with the long path. The pathways in the park are paved and well maintained. The trails in the forest are steep, but clear of debris. There are picnic tables and covered areas for events located throughout the park. The grounds receives regular upkeep, are manicured, and clean. There are a variety of sports fields on which to play. The parking lot is a shitshow. The restrooms are clean and functional.
Glass in the forest, camps in the forest. Also an old man who has a lab off leash that throws his ball to play fetch towards other people with dogs actively putting their dog in multiple situations causing other dogs to bark. I get you trust your dog, but I dont, and you shouldn't be so trusting of other people and their dogs too, throwing the ball your dog is fetching towards people
Tips for Visiting Vancouver Parks
To make the most of your outdoor adventures in Vancouver, a little preparation goes a long way. The city’s climate and terrain can vary dramatically depending on the neighborhood and elevation, so understanding local etiquette and logistics will enhance your experience significantly.
Dress in Layers
The weather in the Pacific Northwest can change in an instant, especially if you are moving between the coast and the mountains. A sunny afternoon can quickly turn chilly and damp. Wearing moisture-wicking base layers, a warm mid-layer, and a waterproof shell is the best way to stay comfortable regardless of the forecast.
Respect the Trail Systems
Many of Vancouver’s parks contain sensitive ecosystems and root systems that are easily damaged. Always stay on marked trails, even if it means stepping through a puddle. Cutting switchbacks or wandering off-path causes erosion and destroys the undergrowth that keeps these forests healthy and lush.
Be "Wildlife Aware"
Vancouver parks are home to a variety of wildlife, including coyotes, raccoons, black bears, and skunks. Never feed the animals, as this habituates them to humans and creates dangerous situations. Keep dogs on a leash in designated areas and carry bear spray if you are hiking in the North Shore mountains.
Check Parking and Transit Restrictions
Parking lots at popular destinations like beaches and mountain summits fill up extremely early on summer weekends. Many areas now require day passes or have strict resident-only parking zones. Whenever possible, take the SkyTrain, SeaBus, or a dedicated shuttle bus to avoid parking tickets and frustration.
Leave No Trace
Vancouver takes pride in its clean, green image, and that requires a collective effort. Pack out everything you pack in, including food scraps like banana peels and apple cores. If trash cans are full, take your garbage home with you to prevent attracting wildlife and keeping the parks pristine for the next visitor.
Exploring the parks of Vancouver offers more than just a photo opportunity; it provides a deep connection to the natural world that defines the city’s identity. Whether you spend an hour in a rose garden or a full day summiting a peak, the fresh air and stunning scenery are guaranteed to recharge your spirit.
As you plan your itinerary, remember that the journey is just as important as the destination. Take your time on the trails, breathe in the scent of the cedar trees, and appreciate the unique blend of ocean and mountain air. No matter which park you choose to visit first, you are sure to understand why Vancouver is considered a true urban paradise.
