What Is There to Do in Banks Oregon With Kids?
Learn about What Is There To Do In Banks Oregon With Kids?
Wondering What Is There To Do In Banks Oregon With Kids? You’re in the right spot. Banks is small, friendly, and outdoorsy, with easy adventures kids love: biking, parks, farms, and a nearby lake. Below you’ll find the best things to do, what to expect, and simple tips to make it easy.
Quick Answer
Banks is a great base for family-friendly outdoor fun. Start with the Banks–Vernonia State Trail for biking and scootering, spend a day at L.L. Stub Stewart State Park, enjoy Hagg Lake for swimming and picnics, and visit nearby farms and wetlands. It’s close to Hillsboro and Forest Grove, with bigger day trips under an hour.
What What Is There To Do In Banks Oregon With Kids? Means
In practical terms, it means:
- Ride bikes and scooters on a flat, paved rail trail.
- Hike, camp, and play at a nearby state park with kid-friendly trails.
- Swim, paddle, and fish at a family lake.
- Meet farmers, pick berries, and pumpkins in season.
- Find easy nature walks and simple rainy-day options close by.
What to Expect
- Small-town vibe: Banks is compact and welcoming, with trail access right in town.
- Outdoor focus: Most activities are outside. Pack layers, water, and snacks.
- Close to everything:
- Portland: about 35–45 minutes east via US‑26.
- Hillsboro: about 20 minutes.
- Forest Grove: about 15 minutes.
- Hagg Lake (Scoggins Valley Park): about 25 minutes.
- Weather:
- Spring/fall: cool, often wet; trails can be slick.
- Summer: warm and dry; popular spots get busy on weekends.
- Winter: rainy; check road and park notices after storms.
Top Family Activities In and Around Banks
In Banks
- Banks–Vernonia State Trail (Banks Trailhead):
21 miles total, but you can do any short section. It’s paved, mostly flat, and stroller-friendly—perfect for bikes, scooters, and balance bikes. Parking and restrooms at the Banks trailhead. - Banks Public Library:
Kid programs like storytime and summer reading (schedules vary). A handy rainy-day break. - Parks and open spaces:
You’ll find casual, kid-friendly play areas near the library and schools. Great for a quick energy burn before or after the trail.
- Banks–Vernonia State Trail (Banks Trailhead):
10–25 minutes from Banks
- L.L. Stub Stewart State Park (Buxton):
Campgrounds and cabins, easy family hiking, mountain bike areas, disc golf, and horse-friendly trails. The Buxton Trestle is a fun highlight on the trail for a short walk and a photo stop. Day-use fee. - Hagg Lake (Scoggins Valley Park):
Swim areas, picnic shelters, boating, and fishing. There’s a paved loop road for confident family cyclists (traffic present—use caution). Day-use fee. - Fernhill Wetlands (Forest Grove):
Flat loop trails, lots of birds, and short walks good for toddlers. Bring binoculars. - Local farms (seasonal):
Nearby spots in Cornelius/Forest Grove often offer u-pick berries (June–July), farm stands, and weekend treats. Check Unger Farms and other local farm stores for current offerings.
- L.L. Stub Stewart State Park (Buxton):
30–60 minutes day trips
- Tillamook Forest Center (west on Hwy 6):
Hands-on exhibits, a pedestrian suspension bridge, short trails, and river views. Seasonal hours. - Wings & Waves Waterpark (McMinnville):
Indoor slides and pools—good for a rainy day. - Oregon Coast (Seaside/Cannon Beach):
Typically 60–75 minutes from Banks. Easy beach day if you start early.
- Tillamook Forest Center (west on Hwy 6):
Tips for Visitors / Residents
- Bring bikes and helmets: Rentals are limited in Banks; if you need rental bikes, check shops in Hillsboro or Forest Grove ahead of time.
- Carry the basics: Water, snacks, sunscreen, and rain layers are smart year-round.
- Know the fees: State parks and Hagg Lake have per-vehicle day-use fees. Bring a card or cash.
- Weekends fill up: Trailhead parking and lake spots can fill on warm weekends. Arrive early.
- Watch for nature hazards: Expect poison oak off-trail and ticks in grassy areas. Stay on paths and do a quick check after hikes.
- Check conditions: After wind or heavy rain, verify trail/road closures and park notices before you go.
Best Local Resources
- Banks–Vernonia State Trail (Oregon State Parks): https://stateparks.oregon.gov/
- L.L. Stub Stewart State Park: https://stateparks.oregon.gov/
- Hagg Lake / Scoggins Valley Park (Washington County): https://www.washingtoncountyor.gov/
- Tillamook Forest Center: https://tillamookforestcenter.org/
- City of Banks & Banks Public Library: https://cityofbanks.org/
Frequently Asked Questions About What Is There To Do In Banks Oregon With Kids?
How far is Banks from Portland?
About 35–45 minutes by car, depending on traffic and where you start in the city.What time of year is best for kids’ activities?
Late spring through early fall is easiest for biking, picnics, and farms. Summer is peak for swimming and berries; fall brings pumpkins and crisp trail days.Is the Banks–Vernonia State Trail kid friendly?
Yes. It’s paved, mostly flat, and car-free, with rest areas and bathrooms at key trailheads.Is parking available at the trail and parks?
Yes. The Banks trailhead has a lot. Stub Stewart and Hagg Lake have multiple lots with a day-use fee.Are there indoor options nearby?
Yes—check Banks Public Library for programs, plus pools, play centers, and museums in Hillsboro and Forest Grove.Any local events families should know about?
Banks hosts community events and festivals during the year, including a popular late-summer celebration. Dates and details vary—check city or chamber listings.
Summary
Banks is small, but it’s a family fun hub. The Banks–Vernonia State Trail is the star for easy riding and walks. Add Stub Stewart State Park, Hagg Lake, nearby farms, and wetland walks, and you’ve got plenty to do with kids within a short drive—all year, with the right layers and a little planning.