Sandy River Delta

Imagine a dog’s paradise: endless off-leash fields, cool rivers, and wooded areas teeming with curious creatures. Just outside of Portland, Oregon, that paradise really exists, and it’s a sanctuary for both people and pets alike.

Known locally as “Thousand Acres,” Trust for Public Land was instrumental in protecting the Sandy River Delta, a 1,500-acre expanse nestled within the Columbia River Gorge National Scenic Area. With open fields, wetlands, and miles of trails, it’s a place where locals and visitors come to connect with the natural beauty of the Pacific Northwest. Bordered by the Sandy and Columbia Rivers, Sandy River Delta offers something for everyone—from mountain biking and horseback riding to birdwatching and even quiet spots to dip into the iconic Columbia River.

Restored from its historical use as an industrial site, portions of Sandy River Delta are protected to safeguard plant and animal habitats, vital to the region’s ecological health. These protected areas provide refuge for native species like salmon, beaver, great blue heron, painted turtles, and a vibrant array of native plants.

This cherished landscape is also home to the Confluence Project’s outdoor art installation, designed by artist Maya Lin to honor the region’s layered natural and cultural history. The installation, inscribed with the names of animals encountered by the Lewis and Clark Expedition, is one of the many ways the Sandy River Delta paints the interconnectedness of the past, present, and future. With stunning views of Mt. St. Helens and an array of accessible trails, this area is more than a favorite local park—it’s a place where nature, art, and community come together.