Sauvie Island

Sauvie Island, also known as Wapato Island, is the largest island in Oregon's Columbia River, covering 26,000 acres in total. The Manhattan-sized island is one of the largest river islands in the United States, and it is a popular natural excursion destination throughout the Portland area. It is located less than ten minutes from Portland's downtown district, at the confluence of the Columbia and Willamette Rivers.

The 2.4-mile Oak Island Nature Trail winds through fields near Steelman and Sturgeon Lakes and features 500-year-old Oregon white oak trees and black-capped chickadees. The two-mile Wapato Access Greenway State Park Trail features Douglas fir trees, mammoth bigleaf maples, and bald eagle populations, while the seven-mile Warrior Rock Lighthouse Trail features the state's smallest lighthouse. The island is also known for its pick-your-own farms, such as Kruger's Farm, where weekly summer concerts are held.

Depending on water levels, the island lakes of Sturgeon Lake, Steelman Lake, and Mud Lake offer warm water fishing for perch, crappie, and catfish from March to June. Follow Oregon's Fishing and Wildlife Regulations, which are updated seasonally.

Google rating: 4.5/5.0

Location: north of Portland, Oregon

Distance from Oregon City: 37.4 miles

Travel Time from Oregon City: 49 mins

Best Months to Visit: September - March