1000 Acres Dog Park
Aka The Sandy River Delta Park
( Aka Doggy Disneyland )
Welcome to Sandy River Delta Park, a hidden gem nestled in the heart of nature. This expansive park, also known as the 1000 Acres Dog Park, is a paradise for dog lovers and outdoor enthusiasts alike. With its breathtaking landscapes, diverse wildlife, and dog-friendly facilities, Sandy River Delta Park offers an unrivaled experience for those seeking adventure and relaxation in equal measure. Join us as we embark on a journey through this extraordinary destination where wagging tails and wagging hearts come together.
Sandy River Delta Park: A Pawsome Playground
Picture a vast expanse of land where your furry friends can roam freely, splash in crystal-clear waters, and chase their tails to their heart’s content. That’s precisely what awaits you at Sandy River Delta Park. Spanning a whopping 1400 acres, this off-leash dog park is a haven for canines of all breeds and sizes. Located just 20 miles east of Portland, in beautiful Troutdale, Oregon, this natural wonderland boasts an endless array of adventures and recreational opportunities for both dogs and their human companions.
Exploring the Wilderness: Trails and Scenic Walks
At Sandy River Delta Park, you and your four-legged companion can embark on exciting journeys along its extensive trail network. With over 10 miles of well-marked paths, you’ll discover a variety of landscapes, including meadows, wetlands, forests, and riverbanks. Lace up your hiking boots and breathe in the crisp forest air as you traverse these picturesque trails, taking in the sights and sounds of nature. Whether you prefer a leisurely stroll or a more challenging trek, the park offers options to suit every skill level. Oh yeah, you can bring horses too!
River Access and Sandy Beaches
One of the highlights of Sandy River Delta Park is its direct access to the Sandy River. Unleash your pup’s inner water lover as they frolic in the refreshing waters or fetch sticks along the riverbanks. The park features several sandy beaches where your furry friend can cool off, dig in the sand, and enjoy a splashing good time. Remember to bring towels and water toys for an extra dose of fun! Seriously though bring towels
There is so much waterfront
In Spring, the beach will often flood.
Dog-Friendly Amenities: Facilities Catered to Canines
Besides miles of trails and awesome spots to swim, Sandy River Delta Park has plenty of strategically placed trash cans to dispose of your dog’s waste. Thousands of dogs come here each week so please practice the leave no trace principal. Leave with what you brought. That being said, from the parking lot, you will find plenty of doggy bags ready for you to grab in case you forget your own!
Birdwatching and Wildlife Observation
Sandy River Delta Park is a haven not only for dogs but also for bird enthusiasts and wildlife lovers. The park’s diverse habitats attract a wide range of bird species, making it a paradise for birdwatching. Grab your binoculars and keep an eye out for majestic eagles soaring overhead, colorful migratory birds, and graceful waterfowl in the wetlands. The park is also home to deer, rabbits, squirrels, and other small mammals, providing ample opportunities for wildlife observation and photography. Make sure to walk the Sandy River Confluence Trail to the Maya Lin Bird Blind to spot many of the local waterfowl and other birds. Dogs must be on a leash on this trail
What else is there to do?
Besides being your dog’s favorite place in Oregon, there are also plenty of bike trails to enjoy with flat, not challenging terrain. The fields are also a fun place to fly a kite as gorge winds are usually prevalent. You may also ride your horse and yes there is designated truck and trailer parking (though regular cars will park there anyways). You can also swim but honestly I would just go to Glen Otto or Lewis and Clark Park for that.
Safety Tips: Ensuring a Paw-sitive Experience
While Sandy River Delta Park offers a remarkable experience for you and your furry friend, it’s essential to prioritize safety during your visit. Here are a few tips to ensure a paw-sitive and worry-free adventure:
- Keep your dog on a leash in areas where it’s required. (The parking lot and Confluence Trail)
- Carry enough water for both you and your pet, especially on hot days.
- Clean up after your dog and dispose of waste in designated bins.
- Be mindful of other visitors and their dogs, respecting their space and comfort.
- Check for ticks and other parasites after your visit, as the park is a natural habitat for wildlife.
A Local's Secret
Here are some more tips:
- This place gets really busy and peak hours are early morning through lunch on weekends. If the parking lot is full, which happens a lot, you can park right down around the corner at the parking lot across from the River. There should be plenty of spots available. A paved trail will lead you into the park. (No parking pass required)
- Seriously, bring towels. Not only for the dog but for yourself. Other people’s dogs may jump on you and get you dirty. Maybe you will want to swim too?
- Wear boots in the winter. The trails collect water and you will be puddle dodging. When it snows, its an absolute mess. When the snow melts, the river banks will flood.
- In the summer, sunscreen is your friend. Alot of the park is exposed directly to the sun and you may get a burn rather quickly.
- Make sure you have your recreation pass. You can buy on site for $5 or buy offsite in Troutdale for $30/year. This pass will be needed for any mountain or gorge recreation at all.
