Portland — Columbia Riverkeeper’s picks for best beaches on the lower Columbia River (columbiariverkeeper.org):
Best Beach for Kids: Willow Grove in Longview has a sandy beach, paved walking paths, picnic areas, restrooms, playgroups and even a life jacket loaner program, making it our top pick for the little ones.
Best Beach to Learn to Windsurf: Beginner windsurfers flock to the Inner Hook in Hood River, Ore., for its calm protected waters.
Best People Watching: On a hot summer day you’ll find great entertainment watching flocks of fellow swimmers enjoying the Sandy River at Lewis and Clark State Park near the confluence with the Columbia.
Best Beach for a Cookout: With a long sandy beach, picnic tables and shelters, playground equipment, and nine grills available just 10 minutes from Vancouver, Frenchman’s Bar is the spot we want to fire up the charcoal.
Best for Camping: If summertime to you means sleeping under the stars while the river floats by, camping is free at Celilo Park. It has trains, too!
Best Clothing-Optional Beach: If you like enjoying the river au natural, Collins Beach on Sauvie Island is our top pick for you!
Beach Tips to Protect Yourself:
• Rinse off after swimming and avoid entering the river with open cuts or wounds.
• Swim at least 500 feet upstream of pipes discharging into the river.
• Be aware of industrial discharges in your area and avoid toxic hot spots.
• Before swimming, check for current E. coli levels at popular recreation sites.
• Report hazardous waste and illegal dumping.
