Saint Helens, Oregon: A Hidden Gem in the Pacific Northwest

Nestled in the heart of the Pacific Northwest, Saint Helens, Oregon is a charming city that offers visitors an array of natural wonders, cultural experiences, and outdoor activities. From picturesque parks and nature reserves to seasonal events and haunted tours, there is no shortage of things to see and do in Saint Helens. Whether you are a history buff, a nature enthusiast, or a thrill-seeker, this guide will help you discover the best that this hidden gem has to offer.

Parks and Nature Reserves

Saint Helens is known for its lush greenery, scenic riverfront, and diverse wildlife, making it a perfect destination for outdoor enthusiasts. Here are some of the most popular parks and nature reserves that you must visit when in Saint Helens.

Columbia View Park

Columbia View Park is a breathtaking park that offers stunning views of the Columbia River, the Cascade Mountains, and the valley below. The park features a playground, picnic area, and a boat ramp, making it a popular spot for families, fishermen, and boating enthusiasts. The park is also home to a variety of wildlife, including bald eagles, ospreys, and blue herons, making it a fantastic destination for birdwatchers and nature lovers. (URL: www.ci.st-helens.or.us/park...)

Sand Island Marine Park

Located just a short boat ride from Saint Helens, Sand Island Marine Park is a picturesque offshore park that features docks, campsites, nature trails, and picnic tables. The 31.7-acre park is home to a variety of wildlife, including harbor seals, river otters, and bald eagles, making it a popular destination for kayaking, fishing, and wildlife watching. Whether you're looking for a relaxing getaway or an adventurous day trip, Sand Island Marine Park is a must-visit attraction in Saint Helens. (URL: sandislandcampground.com/)

Nob Hill Nature Park

Nob Hill Nature Park is a tranquil park that boasts hiking trails, fishing ponds, and picnic areas, making it a popular destination for families and outdoor enthusiasts. The park is home to a variety of wildlife, including deer, rabbits, and songbirds, making it a fantastic destination for nature lovers and birdwatchers. With stunning views of the Columbia River and the surrounding hills, Nob Hill Nature Park offers visitors a serene retreat from the hustle and bustle of city life. (URL: www.ci.st-helens.or.us/park...)

McCormick Park

McCormick Park is a popular destination for families and picnickers, thanks to its scenic location along the Columbia River and its lush greenery. The park features a playground, picnic areas, and a boat ramp, making it a fantastic spot for boating enthusiasts and families. With its stunning views of the river and the wildlife that calls it home, McCormick Park is a must-visit attraction in Saint Helens.

Columbia Botanical Gardens

The Columbia Botanical Gardens is a serene oasis that boasts a variety of native and exotic plants, making it a fantastic destination for plant enthusiasts and nature lovers. The gardens feature several trails, a bamboo forest, and a koi pond, as well as a variety of themed gardens, including a medicinal garden and a pollinator garden. With its peaceful atmosphere and stunning scenery, the Columbia Botanical Gardens is a hidden gem in Saint Helens.

Campbell Park

Campbell Park is a charming neighborhood park that features a playground, picnic area, and a basketball court, making it a popular destination for families and sports enthusiasts. The park is also home to a small creek and a variety of wildlife, including ducks and geese, making it a fantastic destination for nature lovers. With its quaint atmosphere and picturesque scenery, Campbell Park is a must-visit attraction in Saint Helens.

Grey Cliffs Waterfront Park

Grey Cliffs Waterfront Park is a picturesque park that boasts stunning views of the Columbia River and the surrounding hills. The park features a playground, picnic area, and a boat ramp, making it a popular spot for families and boating enthusiasts. With its lush greenery and serene atmosphere, Grey Cliffs Waterfront Park is a fantastic destination for nature lovers and picnickers. (URL: www.ci.st-helens.or.us/park...)

Seasonal Events

Saint Helens is known for its seasonal events, which celebrate everything from Halloween to Christmas. Here are some of the most popular events that you must attend when in Saint Helens.

HalloweenTown Every October

HalloweenTown is a month-long celebration of all things Halloween, featuring haunted house tours, pumpkin patches, and hayrides. The event takes place every October and draws visitors from all over the Pacific Northwest. With its spooky atmosphere and festive spirit, HalloweenTown is a must-visit attraction in Saint Helens. (URL: discovercolumbiacounty.com/)

Spirit Of Halloweentown

Spirit Of Halloweentown is another Halloween-themed event that takes place every October in Saint Helens. The event features parades, live music, and spooky attractions, making it a popular destination for families and Halloween enthusiasts. With its festive atmosphere and fun activities, Spirit Of Halloweentown is a must-visit attraction for anyone visiting Saint Helens. (URL: www.discovercolumbiacounty....)

Other Attractions

In addition to its parks and seasonal events, Saint Helens is home to several other attractions that are worth visiting. Here are some of the must-see attractions in Saint Helens.

Greenhouse Yellow Door

The Greenhouse Yellow Door is a charming garden that features a variety of plants, flowers, and vegetables, making it a fantastic destination for garden enthusiasts. The greenhouse also features a store where visitors can purchase seeds, plants, and other gardening supplies. With its welcoming atmosphere and stunning scenery, the Greenhouse Yellow Door is a must-visit attraction in Saint Helens.

Hilltop Mud Park

Hilltop Mud Park is a popular destination for off-road enthusiasts, featuring a variety of obstacles and terrain for ATVs and off-road vehicles. The park also offers camping and picnic areas, making it a fantastic spot for outdoor enthusiasts. With its thrilling atmosphere and adventurous spirit, Hilltop Mud Park is a must-visit attraction in Saint Helens.

Asburry County Park

Asburry County Park is a scenic park that features a variety of recreational activities, including hiking trails, picnic areas, and fishing ponds. The park is home to a variety of wildlife, including deer, elk, and coyotes, making it a fantastic destination for nature lovers and hunters. With its tranquil atmosphere and picturesque scenery, Asburry County Park is a must-visit attraction in Saint Helens.

St. Helens Haunted Tours

If you are looking for a spooky adventure, the St. Helens Haunted Tours are a must-visit attraction in Saint Helens. The tours take visitors on a journey through some of the city's most haunted places, including the courthouse and the old jailhouse. With its eerie atmosphere and haunting history, the St. Helens Haunted Tours are a must-visit attraction for anyone who loves the paranormal.

Conclusion

Saint Helens, Oregon is a charming city that offers visitors an array of natural wonders, cultural experiences, and outdoor activities. Whether you are a history buff, a nature enthusiast, or a thrill-seeker, Saint Helens has something to offer. From picturesque parks and nature reserves to seasonal events and haunted tours, there is no shortage of things to see and do in Saint Helens. So pack your bags, grab your camera and get ready to explore this hidden gem in the Pacific Northwest.