6 Outdoor Summer Spots You’ll Love in the North Willamette Valley 

6 Outdoor Summer Spots You’ll Love in the North Willamette Valley 

Whether you’ve lived here forever or you’re house hunting from out of town, summer in the North Willamette Valley is something special. We’ve got dahlia fields, river trails, picnic spots, and parks that make it easy to slow down and enjoy the season. 

If you’re ready to explore—or just want to see what makes this part of Oregon so livable—here are some of the best outdoor spots across Canby, Oregon City, Wilsonville, Woodburn, Aurora, and Hubbard. 

Canby: Swan Island Dahlias & Molalla River State Park 

Canby’s a quiet stunner in the summer. You can wander through Swan Island Dahlias in peak bloom from August through September—it's floral therapy at its best. For something more low-key, Molalla River State Park offers riverside walking trails, wildlife spotting, and places to launch a kayak. 

Local tip: Go early in the day to beat the heat and catch great light for photos. 

Oregon City: High Rocks & Canemah Bluff 

There’s no better mix of river adventure and peaceful views than in Oregon City. High Rocks Park is a classic summer hangout for sunbathers and swimmers (always use caution in the water!). For a quieter outing, Canemah Bluff Nature Park has scenic trails, native plants, and sweeping views of the Willamette River and falls.

What makes it special: You’re surrounded by natural beauty and rich Oregon history. 

Wilsonville: Memorial Park & Graham Oaks 

Wilsonville’s green spaces are some of the most family-friendly around. Memorial Park has everything—playgrounds, open lawns, a skate park, and river access. Meanwhile, Graham Oaks Nature Park offers peaceful walking trails and native habitat for a quieter kind of outing. 

Bring the kids—or your coffee and headphones. 

Woodburn: Centennial Park & Community Garden 

Centennial Park is a local hub for summer fun—splash pads, sports courts, walking paths, and open space to play or picnic. Just down the road, the community garden adds a unique local vibe that’s worth a stroll. 

Fun for families and a great way to get to know your neighbors. 

Aurora: Antique Row + City Park 

Spend the day exploring Aurora’s antique shops, then settle into the shaded Aurora City Park just steps away for a relaxing picnic. It’s small-town charm at its best—peaceful, walkable, and full of history. 

Perfect for a lazy Sunday or a quiet weekday escape. 

Hubbard: Close to Two River Escapes 

Hubbard might be small, but it’s close to two of the area’s best outdoor gems. Head south to the Molalla River Corridor for forest trails and swimming holes, or north to Molalla River State Park (just outside Canby) for a more peaceful nature walk along the confluence of the Willamette, Molalla, and Pudding Rivers. 

For those who like the quieter side of summer.

Looking for a Life that Feels Like This? 

One of the reasons people fall in love with this area is how easy it is to enjoy the outdoors—without driving far or fighting crowds. If you’re dreaming about putting down roots near a trail, river, or dahlia field, I’d love to help you find the right home in the right town.