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”Oaks Bottom Wildlife Refuge
Oaks Bottom Wildlife Refuge is a 141-acre park located in a floodplain of the Willamette River, very close to downtown Portland. The Oaks Bottom Wildlife Refuge is one of Portland’s best-kept secrets. It is a great place to go for an afternoon stroll, picnic with friends, or enjoy the wildlife that lives there. The refuge has many habitats, including ponds, streams, and wetlands. Many animals live in these habitats, such as ducks, geese, swans, and beavers. There are also a few picnic tables and benches in the refuge, so you can take a break from your walk and enjoy the beautiful scenery.
If you’re looking for something fun to do in Portland, visiting the Oaks Bottom Wildlife Refuge is highly recommended. It’s a great place to relax and enjoy nature. And who knows, you may even see some beavers!
History of Oaks Bottom Wildlife Refuge
The Oaks Bottom Wildlife Refuge was created in the early 1900s when Portland purchased 160 acres to protect it from development. At the time, the land was used for farming and grazing. Over the years, the refuge has been expanded to its current size of 182 acres. Today, the refuge is home to many animals, including beavers and ducks.
Everyone should visit Oaks Bottom Wildlife Refuge at least once in their lifetime because it’s a great place to relax and enjoy nature. Whether you are looking for something fun to do on your own or with some friends, don’t forget about the Oaks Bottom Wildlife Refuge!
Facts About Oaks Bottom Wildlife Refuge
-The Oaks Bottom Wildlife Refuge was created in the early 1900s.
-It is located on the east side of Portland near SE Clackamas Street and McLoughlin Boulevard.
-Many different species live there, including beavers and ducks.
-It’s a great place to go for an afternoon stroll, picnic with friends, or relax.
-The refuge has a total size of 182 acres.
What to See at Oaks Bottom Wildlife Refuge
- Beavers
- Ducks
- Geese, swans, and other waterfowl species.
- Ponds
- Streams and wetlands.
There are many places in Portland where you can enjoy a picnic lunch or dinner with friends and family, so make sure to bring your food and drinks when you visit the refuge. There are also a few restaurants and cafes near the refuge, so you can quickly grab a bite to eat before or after your visit.
Activities and Events at Oaks Bottom Wildlife Refuge
Beaver Watch: every Saturday morning from January to March, you can watch the beavers at work.
Wildlife Talks: every other Saturday afternoon, there is a wildlife talk where you can learn more about the animals that live in the refuge.
Bird Walks: on the first and third Wednesdays of each month, there is a bird walk where you can learn about the different species of birds that live in the refuge.
Volunteer Opportunities: if you’re interested in volunteering your time to help out at the refuge, please visit this website for more information.
Family Fun Days: every other Saturday afternoon, the refuge hosts family fun days where you can enjoy activities for kids and entertainment.
Why Go to Oaks Bottom Wildlife Refuge
- It’s a great place to relax and enjoy nature. And who knows, maybe even spot some beavers!
- There are many different species of animals that live there, so it’s an excellent place for animal lovers.
- It’s a perfect place to go on a picnic with friends or family.
- The refuge has many different habitats, so it’s an excellent place for nature enthusiasts.
- There are also volunteer opportunities available if you’re interested in helping out at the refuge.
- The refuge hosts many different events throughout the year, so there’s always something fun to do.
If you’re looking for a great place to go in Portland, make sure to visit Oaks Bottom Wildlife Refuge! It’s one of the city’s best-kept secrets and offers something for everyone. There is no shortage of things to do and see, from beaver watching to bird walks.
What Not to Do at Oaks Bottom Wildlife Refuge
- Don’t litter.
- No biking, rollerblading, or skateboarding is allowed at the refuge.
- If you’re planning on having a picnic lunch with some friends, please make sure to throw away all of your trash before leaving.
- It is illegal to hunt or trap animals.
- Please do not touch the wildlife! They are free to roam around as they please, so let them be. It would help if you didn’t feed any birds or other creatures because it can lead to severe consequences for their health and wellbeing.
- No swimming is allowed in the ponds or waterways. This includes dogs!
What to Bring to Oaks Bottom Wildlife Refuge
- Sunscreen
- Bug spray
- A hat and sunglasses.
- Water and snacks.
- A camera!
- Binoculars if you want to get a closer look at the wildlife.
- If you’re going on a hike, make sure to bring appropriate gear for the weather and terrain.
Please respect the rules of Oaks Bottom Wildlife Refuge so that everyone can enjoy their time there!
What is the Best Time to Visit Oaks Bottom Wildlife Refuge
Because there are so many different types of wildlife that live at Oaks Bottom, it’s a great place to go anytime. However, if you want to guarantee to see some beavers and other animals in their natural habitat, going on a weekday between October and February is your best bet.
How to Get at Oaks Bottom Wildlife Refuge
The refuge is located on the east side of Portland near SE Clackamas Street and McLoughlin Boulevard.
By car: take I-205 south to exit 18 for Johnson Creek Boulevard. Head east on Johnson Creek Boulevard and turn left onto SE Milwaukie Avenue. Turn right onto SE Spokane Street, then left onto SE Clackamas Street. The refuge will be on your right.
Take the #20 or #23 bus and get off at the SE Clackamas & McLoughlin Boulevard stop. Walk east on McLoughlin Boulevard, then turn left onto SE Clackamas Street. The refuge will be on your right.
By bike: take the Springwater Corridor Trail to Oaks Amusement Park. The refuge is located just south of the park on SE Oak Grove Blvd.
Hours of Operation: Open daily from sunrise to sunset. There are no gates or locks, so the refuge is accessible at all hours. However, there isn’t any parking available after dark because it’s on a dead-end street with minimal light pollution. So you’ll have to park near the entrance and walk in.
Address: SE Sellwood Blvd & SE 7th Avenue, Portland, OR 97202, United States
Phone: (503) 224-1498
Website: oaksbottom.audubon.org
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