There’s something about these late summer days. The golden light, the quiet breeze, the way everything feels just a little slower. It’s the perfect time to hit pause and head outside for a simple pleasure: a picnic.
As the days start to cool and the evenings creep in earlier, now’s your chance to roll out a blanket, pack your favorite snacks, and enjoy one of Clark County’s beautiful local parks. From shaded lawns to scenic lake views, these six parks offer some of the best settings in the county for a memorable end-of-summer picnic.
Wintler Community Park
This is one of Vancouver’s most underrated gems. Wintler Community Park gives you 12 acres of peaceful riverfront space and a sandy beach that feels like a mini vacation.
This is the spot for a barefoot kind of picnic. Grab a cooler and claim a spot on the sand. Let the kids run near the water, or just relax with the Columbia River stretching out in front of you. There are several picnic areas with tables and grills if you prefer something off the sand, and you’ll also find restrooms and a small playground nearby.
By late summer, the crowds start thinning out, which means more space and more calm. And the views? They’re hard to beat—especially if you stay to catch a sunset over the river.
Park hours: 5:00 a.m. to 10:00 p.m.
Best for: Sandy beach picnics, river views, and quiet evening getaways
Moulton Falls Regional Park
If your idea of a great picnic starts with a short hike and ends with the sound of rushing water, Moulton Falls is where you want to be. This 387-acre park has a calm, forested vibe that’s perfect for a low-key adventure.
After a walk along the river or across the tall arch bridge, head to one of the nine picnic tables near the main gathering area. There’s a single grill on-site, and the trees offer natural shade throughout the day. It’s peaceful, and you’ll feel far from the city even though it’s not that far of a drive.
Bring your own food, water, and maybe a small camping chair if you want to post up near the riverbank. Swimming is allowed in the river, but do be careful since there are no lifeguards, and the water can be unpredictable.
Park hours: 7:00 a.m. to dusk
Best for: Scenic waterfall views, hiking + picnic combos, and quiet nature time
Lewisville Regional Park
Planning a big family hangout or group get-together? Lewisville is the go-to. As Clark County’s oldest and biggest park, it offers wide open meadows, river access, and lots of places to spread out and get comfortable.
This park was built with picnics in mind. There are over 140 picnic tables, 17 barbecue grills, and 13 reservable shelters that can handle anywhere from a small crew to a 200-person reunion. Shaded areas, playgrounds, and nearby trails make it easy to entertain all ages, and the East Fork of the Lewis River adds a peaceful soundtrack to the day.
If you're just going for a chill meal outside, there’s no need to reserve a shelter—just roll in early and claim a table near the water or under the trees. It’s a classic summer picnic spot, and it only gets better in late August and early September when the crowds ease up.
Park hours: 7:00 a.m. to dusk
Best for: Large group picnics, family outings, and all-day hangouts
Fallen Leaf Lake Park
This one feels like a secret. Fallen Leaf Lake Park offers a peaceful setting for smaller picnics with fewer crowds and a lakeside view that’s hard to resist.
There’s a picnic shelter that can be reserved during summer, or you can grab one of the tables that overlook the 15-acre lake. The water is calm and open to non-motorized flotation devices, so it’s perfect if you want to paddle around or just sit back and enjoy the view.
Take a walk along the informal nature trails, watch for birds in the forest, and let yourself slow down. This is a great park if you’re looking to recharge and enjoy a quieter end-of-summer afternoon.
Park hours: 10:00 a.m. to dusk
Best for: Quiet picnics, lake views, and relaxing forest vibes
Lucia Falls Regional Park
Lucia Falls offers a peaceful stretch of riverbank, shady trees, and just enough amenities for a simple, satisfying picnic. You’ll hear the water before you see it, and during late summer, the atmosphere is calm and refreshing.
There are nine picnic tables, one barbecue grill, and just enough space for a small gathering without feeling crowded. It’s a great place to enjoy a packed lunch, especially after walking the 2.5-mile trail that connects to nearby Moulton Falls.
Keep in mind, no swimming here since it’s a protected fish spawning area, but you can still appreciate the beauty of the falls and the sound of water while you eat. It’s a low-fuss spot that feels tucked away from the usual noise.
Park hours: 7:00 a.m. to dusk
Best for: Couples, hikers, and peaceful nature picnics with a view
Lacamas Regional Park
Want to mix your picnic with some adventure? Lacamas Regional Park offers both. With miles of trails, a beautiful lake, and interesting rock formations near the falls, this is a spot you can explore for hours before finding your perfect picnic corner.
There’s one main shelter (first-come, first-served), 18 picnic tables, and several barbecue grills throughout the park. If you can snag a lakeside table, you’ll have a beautiful view to go with your sandwiches. There’s also a playground for kids, making this park a good choice for families.
Late summer brings cooler breezes and less foot traffic, so it’s a great time to hike, eat, and unwind all in one trip.
Park hours: 7:00 a.m. to dusk
Best for: Picnic + hike days, lake views, and shaded afternoon breaks
Make the Most of the Last Summer Stretch
September always sneaks up fast. One minute you’re in full summer mode, and the next you’re grabbing a sweater and wondering when the sun started setting so early. Before that shift hits hard, take a moment for yourself.
Pick a park. Pack something simple like fruit, sandwiches, cold drinks, maybe a little dessert. Grab a book, bring a friend, or just go solo. Let the season slow down around you for a while.
And if you do head out, snap a photo and tag the park. You never know who you’ll inspire to do the same before the clouds roll in.
Summer’s still here, at least for a little while longer. Let’s not waste it.
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