City Guides: Things to do While Boating in St. Helens, Oregon
Located north of Portland, along the rugged Columbia River and Scappoose Bay, St. Helens, Oregon is a charming and often overlooked destination for travelers and boaters seeking a taste of the Pacific Northwest. With its rich history, a variety of outdoor activities and stunning views of Mount Hood and Mount St. Helens in Washington, the town of St. Helens offers a delightful escape from the hustle and bustle of urban life.
Today, we’re going to explore some of the must-visit attractions to visit from private boat slip rentals near St. Helens.
Columbia View Park
Photo: Wikimedia/Cacophony/CC by SA 3.0
Start your journey in St. Helens with a visit to the stunning Columbia View Park. Overlooking the Columbia River, this park offers breathtaking panoramic views of the water, the distant mountains, and the iconic St. Helens Bridge. Picnic tables and benches provide a perfect spot for a leisurely lunch or simply basking in the scenic beauty. It's an ideal location to capture stunning photographs and enjoy a tranquil moment by the river.
Downtown St. Helens
Photo: Wikimedia/Gary Halvorson/CC
Step back in time as you explore the historic Old Town area of St. Helens. The charming streets are lined with well-preserved historic buildings, some dating back to the late 1800s. Quaint shops, boutiques and cafes make for an enjoyable stroll. Be sure to stop by the Columbia Theatre, a beautifully restored 1920s movie palace that hosts various events, including classic film screenings and live performances. This is a terrific area to visit from private boat slips for rent near St. Helens.
St. Helens Marina
Photo: St. Helens Marina (Facebook)
For those who love water activities, the St. Helens Marina is a must-visit destination. You can rent paddleboards, kayaks and canoes to explore the serene waters of the marina. If you're an angler, try your luck at fishing off the pier, or simply enjoy a leisurely walk along the waterfront promenade. The full-service marina offers fuel docks, fishing supplies, boating gear and services for sailboats, yachts and cuddy cabins. The marina is also home to seasonal events and a lovely place to watch the sunset over the river.
McCormick Park
Photo: City of St. Helens - Government (Facebook)
Looking for a place to enjoy nature from a private boat lift rental? Nature enthusiasts will appreciate the beauty of McCormick Park. This 62-acre park offers hiking trails, birdwatching opportunities, sports fields and a peaceful escape into the Pacific Northwest wilderness. It's a great place for a family picnic and exploring the park's lush greenery and serene ponds.
Halloweentown
Photo: Wikimedia/Nicci Schu/CC by SA 4.0
If you're visiting St. Helens in the fall, you're in for a special treat. The town is famous for its Halloweentown celebration, which embraces the spooky season with enthusiasm. The town square is transformed into a Halloween wonderland, complete with pumpkin patches, haunted houses and a giant scarecrow. It's a fun, unique and memorable experience for visitors of all ages to visit from private boat dock rentals.
Hopefully you’ve discovered some fun attractions to enjoy from private boat slip rentals near St. Helens. Check out a few and let us know your favorites.