Fernhill Wetlands

Wildlife viewing, migratory birds, walking trails

Fernhill Wetlands
Fernhill Road
Forest Grove, OR

Fernhill Wetlands is located near the confluence of Gales Creek and the Tualatin River. This peaceful site, located just minutes from downtown Forest Grove, attracts wildlife including herons, hawks, eagles and beavers.  This is an ideal place to spot migratory birds and waterfowl. There are short trails and viewing stands that make it easy to view the myriad wildlife. Waterfowl populations are daily in the thousands from November through March. Shorebirds occur (at least 17 species recorded thus far) in numbers frequently exceeding 100 birds in spring, fall, and sometimes in winter.

Wetlands has new Friends

A new group, the Friends of Fernhill Wetlands (FOFW), has organized and wants to invite area residents to join its ranks.  FOFW is a group of volunteers working together to enhance and preserve Fernhill Wetlands and its natural community while providing a unique setting for education and recreation.  The group's goal is to bring together people from business, education, government and citizenry to ensure a heritage of scenic beauty and human connection to nature for generations to come.  The Friends are evaluating new meeting venues and formats.  Stay tuned for announcements of future meetings and events.  Contact us at This e-mail address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it  if you'd like to help plan Friends events. 

UPCOMING EVENTS:
Walk the Trails of Fernhill Wetlands
Saturday, April 6
9 to 11 a.m.
Join Victoria Lowe on a stroll through Fernhill Wetlands to see the new Water Garden, trails and pedestrian bridges. Learn what all the construction is about and why it's improving habitat for birds and wildlife.  Meet at the picnic shelter at 9 a.m. rain or shine, so dress for the weather.

Fernhill Wetlands--a Showcase of Sustainability
Tuesday, May 7
7 to 8 p.m.
Forest Grove Library, 2114 Pacific Ave 
Find out why people are flocking to Fernhill Wetlands. A new Water Garden and natural treatment systems to improve water quality are also enhancing habitat for migratory birds and creating a more beautiful place for visitors to enjoy. The City of Forest Grove, Fernhill Wetlands Council and Friends of Fernhill Wetlands, local schools and many community members are collaborating with Clean Water Services on this ground-breaking project.  Presented by Forest Grove City Councilor Victoria Lowe.

Plant Natives at Fernhill Wetlands
Saturday, May 11
9 to noon
Help plant native perennial plants around the picnic shelter. Together we can beautify Fernhill Wetlands while creating butterfly and hummingbird habitat!
Meet at the Fernhill picnic shelter at 9 a.m. Rain or shine. Please bring work gloves and sturdy boots. Free coffee and donuts.