Jenkins Estate — Attraction in Cooper Mountain

Camp Rivendale is a great place to take your kids when it's open to the public. I realize that it's main purpose is for kids with special needs during the summer and I am fine with that. However, later in the summer after the camp is over, the playground and surrounding area is always rented out to people who can afford to pay and take over the park for themselves. I realize that the park needs money to stay open, but it is not right that people who are less fortunate cannot enjoy the playground on weekends because people who can pay to play have the park reserved. Imagine what would happen if rich people were able to reserve beaches, mountain tops, etc. Another problem is the trail that goes along the ridge-top often has unsupervised dogs that come from the adjacent houses through openings in the fence. These dogs bark, growl, and poop on the trail. There is a yellow dog that is on the trail almost daily and nobody does a...

An interesting site to visit with a variety of opportunities including OSU Learning Garden, Rhododendron Garden, Herb Garden, historic buildings, trails, play area, picnic tables, benches and lawn. A lot of flowers were in bloom. Many plants are identified. Leashed dogs are allowed. Free paved parking available in three lots. Two of the lots may be closed for events or summer camp programs. We saw two outhouses. The outhouse we checked was clean. The buildings appeared to be well maintained. Most of the developed grounds were clean and well maintained. A bit of a challenge figuring out where to park. Trails could be better maintained and could use signs at intersections. Trail surfaces include pavement, gravel, dirt/mud and chipped material. It appears that maintenance is done by both paid staff and volunteers. They could use more of both. The OSU Garden had a sign that they could use volunteers...

Variety in nature awaits! There are several gardens, including rose gardens that are nice for sitting or a little snack. There's an educational garden, and a big open lawn to play fetch with a dog. Away from the house, there are several hiking trails. I took two dogs with me on the trails and loved how after a few steps, it was easy to forget that moments ago we were in a parking lot, let alone there being a house nearby. It looks like the buildings can be used for camps, retreats, and meetings. I enjoyed my hike so much that I recommended it to friends immediately afterwards. Easy to get to from Hillsboro. Yes, it's worth the drive from Portland, a short drive and a wonderful way to spend...