Sauvie Island — Local services in Scappoose

🏝️ Sauvie Island: Oregon’s Rural Playground Sauvie Island is one of the largest river islands in the United States, spanning over 24,000 acres between the Columbia River and Multnomah Channel2. It’s a rare blend of working farms, protected wildlife areas, and recreational beaches—all just 10 miles from downtown Portland.

Size: Roughly the same as Manhattan

Vibe: Peaceful, pastoral, and perfect for unplugging

Google Maps Rating: ⭐ 4.6 from over 440 reviews

🌿 What Makes It Special Wildlife Refuge: The Sauvie Island Wildlife Area is a haven for over 200 bird species, including bald eagles, sandhill cranes, and great blue herons3.

Agricultural Riches: Farms here grow berries, pumpkins, corn, lavender, and more. Seasonal U-pick events are a local favorite4.

Beaches: The island’s northeast edge offers miles of sandy shoreline along the Columbia River—including a designated clothing-optional beach.

Trails & Nature Walks: Flat, scenic loops like Wapato Access Greenway and Oak Island Nature Trail offer peaceful strolls through wetlands and oak groves4.

🥾 Top Things to Do Activity Highlights Berry & Pumpkin Picking Seasonal U-pick farms like Bella Organic and The Pumpkin Patch Birdwatching Spot eagles, flickers, and chickadees in the wildlife refuge3 Beach Day Swim, sunbathe, or paddleboard along the Columbia River beaches Scenic Walks Wapato Greenway (2 mi loop) and Oak Island Trail (2.4 mi loop)4 Fishing Warm-water fishing for perch, crappie, and catfish in island lakes Farmers Markets Fresh produce, cider tastings, and hayrides at local farms Cycling & Kayaking Flat roads and calm waters make it ideal for both 🧭 Visitor Experience Parking: A $10 day-use permit is required at trailheads and beaches

Accessibility: Most areas are flat and walkable; trails are beginner-friendly

Seasonality: Best from April through October for farm visits and wildlife viewing

Facilities: Limited—bring water, snacks, and sunscreen

Crowds: Summer weekends can get packed; weekdays are quieter

🗣️ What Locals Say “It’s a trip to go to an island the same size as Manhattan and see nothing but grass, fields and water. Very peaceful place.” — Bronson Allen “Grew up here when there wasn’t everyone and their mom and mom’s cousins 3 times removed coming here. Still beautiful, but parking is tough.” — Local Guide1 “The trails are peaceful and full of wildlife. I recommend taking a drive around the island for stunning views.” — Michelle Parker

🧳 Tips for a Stellar Visit 🧢 Sun Protection: No shade on beaches or trails—bring a hat and sunscreen

🥾 Footwear: Trails can be muddy in spring; wear waterproof shoes

🧺 Pack Snacks: Limited food options unless you visit a farm stand

🐕 Dog-Friendly: Most trails welcome leashed pets

📷 Photography: Sunset over the fields or fog on the river—pure magic

🧠 Final Verdict: Is It Worth It? Absolutely. Sauvie Island is a rare gem—close enough for a day trip, yet wild enough to feel like a true escape. Whether you’re chasing birds, berries, or just a quiet moment by the water, it delivers a full Oregon experience in one...

Sauvie Island, (or what I can see, smell, & hear of it), is an awesome place to visit, any time of year, for numerous reasons! I actually live in a floating home, directly across from the, (middle), of the Island, and. (curiously), close to the underwater ledge, which jets out, far, and long. This ledge is well known by the local fishing guides, as a fantastic place to fish, during the salmon run. During the spring and summer, when the Multnomah Channel's water is warmer, and not as wide, this natural ledge is a safe haven, for fish to keep cool, during the hot weather. This ledge juts out from under Sauvie Island, from the rivers bend, down towards Scappoose. Those who have GPS, or depth-fish finders, can scope it out. As a good portion of the Islands, 'land/water,' areas are privately owned, it's best to have a boat, if you want to; 'fish-the-ledge,' of Sauvie Island!

*The ledge, I believe, is the reason, "Google Maps,' thinks we, "WEST MULTNOMAH CHANNEL-Floaters," are living on Sauvie Island! Their satellite images must see the ledge; and our homes being fairly close to the ledge, believe we are floating closer to Sauvie Island, than to Hwy 30. Nothing in this world is perfect;

Like, " Horseshoes...

I loved it!! I was originally under the impression that it was a primitive area, hardly any dwellings or people. Imagine my surprise when I discovered a thriving agricultural community that offers fresh produce at nearly every farm! The prices were great and so was the quality! The roads are well-maintained so even sedans can safely drive there. We did not visit the wildlife refuge area but it looks interesting. There is also a clothing-optional beach for those people who enjoy being one with nature. There are plenty of portable potties, too, which are extremely clean! Access to the island is easy, crossing a short bridge from Hwy 30, regulated by a traffic light. Roads are clearly marked. As soon as you cross the bridge, turn left and left again. Park there and review the big map for points of interest and an easy to follow...