Sellwood Riverfront Park - A tree in a park with a path in the foreground
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Sellwood Riverfront Park

4.6
·2k reviews·Portland, United States

A vibrant waterside park in Portland, perfect for dogs, swimming, picnics, and enjoying the Willamette River.

Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Weekday mornings

Fewer crowds, more space

CrowdLow
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Sellwood Riverfront Park - A tree in a park with a path in the foreground

Sellwood Riverfront Park

Best Time

Weekday mornings

Fewer crowds, more space

CrowdLow
Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

A vibrant waterside park in Portland, perfect for dogs, swimming, picnics, and enjoying the Willamette River.

4.6
(2k reviews)

"Love this park, but it gets very busy on warm days. The off-leash area is huge and dogs have fun playing in the water."

Vertical photo
TIP

🚗 Arrive Early for Parking

Parking fills up fast, especially on sunny days. Get here early to secure a spot!

🐶 Doggy Water Fun

Your dog will love the huge off-leash area and river access. Bring a towel!

Third hero image

Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Off-Leash Dog Area

Off-Leash Dog Area

North end of the park

A vast, sandy expanse where dogs can roam freely and splash in the Willamette River. Perfect for energetic pups!

Riverfront Dock

Riverfront Dock

Along the Willamette River

Ideal for sunbathing, diving, or simply enjoying the water. A favorite spot for a refreshing dip on hot days.

Picnic & Play Areas

Picnic & Play Areas

Grassy fields near the water

Spacious, grassy areas perfect for picnics, games, and relaxing with a view of the river.

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Planning Your Visit

Beat the Crowds for River Fun

Sellwood Riverfront Park is a popular spot, especially on warm days. Arrive early to snag parking and enjoy the river access before it gets too crowded. Consider weekdays for a more relaxed experience.

Dog-Friendly Paradise

This park boasts a huge off-leash dog area and is incredibly pet-friendly. Your furry friends will love playing in the water and on the sandy banks. Just be mindful of other visitors and keep dogs under control.

Best Times

When
Weekday mornings
Why
Fewer crowds, more space
Crowd
Low
When
Warm summer afternoons
Why
Perfect for swimming
Crowd
High
When
Early evenings
Why
Golden hour views
Crowd
Medium

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

First river day in May at a swimming hole just 45 min outside of Portland 🫶🏻 #pdx #swimming #riverdays #swimminghole #portland #oregon #oregoncheck #traveloregon
@foodiesnitch
11.9K likes • 158.5K views

🚗 Arrive Early for Parking

Parking fills up fast, especially on sunny days. Get here early to secure a spot! Reddit

🐶 Doggy Water Fun

Your dog will love the huge off-leash area and river access. Bring a towel! Instagram

MONTY’S RED SAUCE 🍝 Portland’s cutest new Italian spot in Sellwood! Highly reccomend 😋 Went here with the girls and is perfect for a girls night out or date night! #fypage #portlandor #portlandfood #italianfood #portland #foodtiktok #DinnerIdeas #
@tsizzleeats
10.6K likes • 135.6K views
Guss launches at Sellwood Riverfront Park on 9/27! This is what you need to know: 1. Sign up at the link in bio to be the first to know when booking goes live and get a discount code for launch day 2. We’ll have hot tea and thoughtful experiences throughout the day 3. We’re working with Human Access Project to activate the river all winter long and will be donating 5% of every session througho...
guss.sauna
506 likes • 13.4K views

🧺 Pack a Picnic

Plenty of grassy spots perfect for a relaxing picnic by the water. Reddit

🏊‍♀️ River Swimming Spot

The dock is a popular spot for jumping in and cooling off. Reddit

Save this list of gems in Portland 😃🙌 Got any other favorites?? Comment down below 🤗 1.Hoyt Arboretum 2.Mount Tabor 3.Sellwood Riverfront Park 4.Tualatin Hills Nature Park . #hiddengemsinportland #portlandoregon #travelportland #visitportland #portland #pnw #pnwlife #pnwadventures #travelportland
c.h.e.t.h.z
33 likes • 3K views

Tips

from all over the internet

🚗 Arrive Early for Parking

Parking fills up fast, especially on sunny days. Get here early to secure a spot! Reddit

🐶 Doggy Water Fun

Your dog will love the huge off-leash area and river access. Bring a towel! Instagram

🧺 Pack a Picnic

Plenty of grassy spots perfect for a relaxing picnic by the water. Reddit

🏊‍♀️ River Swimming Spot

The dock is a popular spot for jumping in and cooling off. Reddit

🚶‍♀️ Scenic River Walks

Enjoy beautiful trails along the water, perfect for a leisurely stroll. Reddit

What Travellers Say

4.6
(2k reviews)

Reviews Summary

Sellwood Riverfront Park is a beloved community spot, especially praised for its massive off-leash dog area and excellent river access for swimming and playing. Visitors appreciate the clean restrooms and scenic trails, making it ideal for picnics and family outings. However, be prepared for significant crowds and quickly filling parking lots on warm, sunny days.

"Love this park, but it gets very busy on warm days. The off-leash area is huge and dogs have fun playing in the water. The trails are beautiful and maintained. Good place to have a family day, or take a walk. The restrooms were surprisingly clean and there's a beautiful tribute to overdose on the trail parallel to the water."

Holli Pinkston

"Sellwood riverfront park is the best place for a picnic or swim! The doc is a great place for diving, or jumping in. The grass is close enough to the water to have a picnic. And it’s super dog friendly!"

Jake Prososki

"Wonder grassy area next to the water. Plenty of bank access and beach space. Parking fills quickly so get there early. Great place for a picnic, float and pet friendly."

Joshua Dunham

What People Like

Huge off-leash dog area
Great river access
Clean restrooms

What People Dislike

Crowded on warm days
Parking fills quickly

Frequently Asked Questions

🚇 🗺️ Getting There

Sellwood Riverfront Park is located in Southeast Portland. It's easily accessible by car, with parking available within the park. Public transportation options are also available, though may require a transfer. Instagram

Yes, there is parking available, but it fills up quickly, especially on warm days and weekends. Arriving early is highly recommended to secure a spot. Reddit

Absolutely! Sellwood Riverfront Park is bike-friendly, with paths and racks available. It's a great way to enjoy the scenic surroundings. Instagram

While direct routes might vary, you can typically reach the Sellwood-Moreland neighborhood via bus lines, and then it's a short walk to the park. Check TriMet for the most current routes. Instagram

Visiting on weekdays or during off-peak hours (early mornings or late afternoons) can help you avoid the heaviest traffic and crowds. Reddit

🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry

No, Sellwood Riverfront Park is a public park and does not have an entrance fee. Enjoy the amenities and natural beauty for free! Instagram

Sellwood Riverfront Park is generally open from dawn until dusk. It's always a good idea to check local park advisories for any specific closures or event hours. Instagram

For general park access, no booking is required. However, if you're interested in specific events like the Guss sauna launch, booking in advance is recommended. Instagram

Generally, you can bring picnics, non-alcoholic beverages, and your pets. Large group events might require permits, so check with the city if planning a big gathering. Reddit

The park offers a playground, picnic tables, restrooms, a boat dock, and a large off-leash dog area. Reddit

🎫 🏞️ Onsite Experience

You can swim, picnic, walk your dog in the off-leash area, enjoy the playground, or simply relax by the Willamette River. Paddleboarding is also popular here. InstagramReddit

Yes, it's extremely dog-friendly with a large off-leash area and river access, making it a favorite for pet owners. InstagramReddit

Yes, many visitors swim and float in the river, especially from the dock. Be aware of currents and water conditions. TikTokReddit

Yes, restrooms are available within the park, and reviews suggest they are surprisingly clean. Reddit

Many visitors rave about the huge off-leash dog area and the great dock for jumping into the river. The bridge views are also a highlight. Reddit

🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining

Yes, the Sellwood-Moreland neighborhood has a variety of dining options, including Italian spots like Monty's Red Sauce and plant-based Kenyan food carts at Piknik Park. TikTokInstagram+1

Absolutely! The park has grassy areas perfect for picnics, and it's a popular spot for families and groups to enjoy meals outdoors. Reddit

While there aren't food vendors directly inside the park, the nearby Sellwood-Moreland area offers numerous restaurants and food carts, such as those at Piknik Park. TikTok

The Sellwood-Moreland area offers diverse culinary experiences, from Italian cuisine to plant-based options and local cafes. TikTokInstagram+1

Bringing your own picnic is a great way to enjoy the park's scenery affordably. However, exploring the local eateries offers a taste of Portland's vibrant food scene. Reddit

📸 📸 Photography

Capture shots of dogs playing in the river, people enjoying the dock, scenic river views, and the bridge. The golden hour light is particularly beautiful here. InstagramReddit

Definitely! The off-leash dog area and river access provide fantastic opportunities for capturing playful and dynamic photos of your pets. Instagram

Early mornings and late afternoons (golden hour) offer the best light for photography, creating a warm and inviting atmosphere. Instagram

The river dock, the bridge views, and the expansive sandy banks of the dog park are popular subjects for photographers. Reddit

Drone usage is subject to local regulations. It's best to check with the Portland Parks & Recreation department for current rules regarding drone operation in city parks. Instagram

For Different Travelers

Tailored advice for your travel style

👨‍👩‍👧 Families with Kids

Sellwood Riverfront Park is a fantastic choice for families. The park features a playground that will keep younger children entertained, and the grassy areas are perfect for running around and playing games. The shallow areas of the river can be fun for supervised water play, and the overall relaxed atmosphere makes it easy to spend a whole afternoon here. Remember to pack plenty of snacks and drinks, and consider bringing a blanket for comfortable seating. Reddit

For families with dogs, this park is a dream. The large off-leash area means your furry family members can join in on the fun, playing in the water and socializing with other dogs. The picnic tables provide convenient spots for family meals, and the clean restrooms are a plus for parents. It’s a great spot for a low-cost, high-fun family outing. Instagram

🐶 Dog Owners

If you have a dog, Sellwood Riverfront Park should be at the top of your list. The park's most celebrated feature is its huge off-leash dog area, offering ample space for your canine companion to roam freely and play. The direct access to the Willamette River is a major draw, allowing dogs to swim, fetch, and cool off on warm days. InstagramReddit

Be prepared for your dog to have a blast! Bring towels for post-swim drying and consider a leash for areas outside the designated off-leash zone. The friendly environment means your dog will likely meet many other happy pups. It's a true paradise for dogs and their owners looking for outdoor fun. Reddit

Active & Outdoorsy Types

For those who love being active outdoors, Sellwood Riverfront Park offers plenty of opportunities. The Willamette River is perfect for paddleboarding, kayaking, or simply enjoying a refreshing swim. The park's trails are also great for walking, jogging, or cycling, offering scenic views along the waterfront. TikTokReddit

Consider bringing your own gear for water sports or exploring the nearby neighborhoods on bike. The park's open spaces are also ideal for frisbee, kite flying, or other recreational activities. It's a versatile destination for anyone looking to enjoy Portland's natural beauty and outdoor lifestyle. Instagram

Deep Dives

In-depth insights and expert knowledge

Embracing the River Life

Sellwood Riverfront Park is a prime spot for enjoying the Willamette River. The park features a boat dock that serves as a popular launch point for various water activities. Visitors often use it for diving, jumping into the water, or simply as a place to relax and soak up the sun. The sandy banks provide easy access for wading and playing in the river, making it a fantastic destination for a summer day. Many locals and visitors alike enjoy paddleboarding and other floaty activities here, embracing the relaxed river culture. TikTokReddit+1

For those looking to cool off, swimming in the river is a common pastime. The water can be refreshing on hot Portland days, and the park's layout makes it convenient for both swimmers and those picnicking nearby. It's important to be aware of river conditions, currents, and to supervise children closely. The presence of a 'tribute to overdose' on the trail parallel to the water also adds a poignant layer to the park's landscape, reminding visitors of the community's ongoing efforts and awareness. TikTokReddit

A Haven for Four-Legged Friends

Sellwood Riverfront Park is renowned for its exceptionally dog-friendly atmosphere, particularly its expansive off-leash dog area. This vast, sandy space allows dogs the freedom to run, play, and interact with other canine companions. The highlight for many dogs is the direct access to the Willamette River, where they can splash, swim, and cool off. This makes it a perfect destination for dog owners looking to give their pets a fun and active day out. InstagramReddit

Reviewers consistently praise the size and quality of the off-leash area, noting that it's a great place for dogs to socialize and burn energy. The proximity of the grassy picnic areas to the water also means that owners can relax and enjoy their own time while keeping a close eye on their pets. It's a true community hub for dog lovers, fostering a friendly and respectful environment for all. Reddit+1

Community and Local Flavors

Beyond its natural beauty, Sellwood Riverfront Park is part of a vibrant neighborhood with a growing culinary scene. The Sellwood-Moreland area is dotted with tasty restaurants and fun bars, offering a variety of dining experiences. TikTok creators have highlighted spots like Monty's Red Sauce, an Italian eatery perfect for a girls' night out or date night, and Maisha, a plant-based Kenyan food cart located at Piknik Park, bringing unique flavors to Portland. TikTokInstagram+1

These local gems add another dimension to a visit to Sellwood Riverfront Park, allowing visitors to combine outdoor recreation with culinary exploration. Whether you're looking for a casual picnic or a sit-down meal, the surrounding neighborhood provides ample options to satisfy your appetite. The park itself also hosts community activations, such as waterfront events organized by groups like the Human Access Project, further enhancing its role as a community gathering space. Instagram+1

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