The Experience: If your kids are tired of the neighborhood swimming pool and would like an end of summer adventure that’s close to home, take a drive to Kelley Point Park. The sprawling public park is located at the very tip of Marine Drive, at the confluence of the Willamette and the Columbia Rivers.

Several picnic areas, grassy fields and a long stretch of sandy beach offer plenty to keep the kids occupied. And because the park is so big – over 100 acres – it’s possible to find your own patch of privacy, even when the parking lot is full of cars.

We stay on the Columbia River side of the park, figuring the water is cleaner there. Not everyone is comfortable swimming in the Columbia, but I’ve been bringing my kids there since they were toddlers, and we’ve never had any problems.

When they were younger, they would just wade close to shore. Now that they are 12 and almost-10, and have years of swimming lessons under their belts, they are allowed to swim out farther, as long as an adult is supervising them.

The water is cold and there is a current – and no lifeguard – but if you’re willing to be diligent, it’s a great place to cool off during the dog days of August.

Insider information: Blackberries ripen in abundance here in late summer. Remember to stick a few plastic tubs in with your beach gear so you can take some home!

The 411
Ages: Good for toddlers and up, with close supervison.
Hours: Dawn to dusk.
Cost: Free.
Directions: From I-5, drive west on North Marine Drive about 4.5 miles. Signs for the park will be on your right. Park in the farthest lot for easy access to the beach on a paved path.
Contact information: 503-823-PLAY, www.portlandonline.com/parks

August 18th, 2010 | Category: Family Fun Home, Family Fun Reviews