Visit Jackson Bottom Wetlands Preserve

Plan Your Visit

Two eagles at their nest at Jackson Bottom Wetlands Preserve Jackson Bottom Wetlands Preserve offers 4.5 miles of gravel and bark chipped trails through a variety of habitats, providing exceptional wildlife watching opportunities throughout the seasons. Trails are open seven days a week from sunrise to sunset.

Trails may be flooded during winter months, please contact us for current trail conditions, 503-681-6206.

Rules & Regulations

All City of Hillsboro General Park Rules and Metal Detecting Rules also apply to Jackson Bottom Wetlands Preserve. In addition:

Pets are prohibited. (Why no dogs?)
No bicycles, scooters, or motorized vehicles are permitted.

Wetlands Nature Center

Jackson Bottom facility and surrounding nature in Spring The Jackson Bottom Wetlands Nature Center is a gateway to the unique resources and programs of the Preserve.

The 12,000 square foot facility features an exhibit hall filled with interactive exhibits on wetlands and natural history, and is home to the only authentic bald eagle nest exhibit in the continental United States. The Wetlands Nature Center also has a Nature Store, a multipurpose space for programs, and a 3,000 square foot covered deck overlooking the Preserve—a perfect space for rentals and special events.

Hours and Admission

Trails are open sunrise to sunset, seven days a week
No dogs or bicycles, please
The Nature Center is open 10 am to 4 pm, seven days a week. Closed holidays
Groups of 10 or more, or others seeking accommodation, please call 503-681-6206 to schedule your visit or inquire about trail conditions
Admission is free and open to the public; there is a suggested donation of $2 for ages 10+

Exhibit Hall

Watershed exhibit Since the opening in 2003, the Jackson Bottom Wetlands Nature Center has hosted a quarter million visitors and serves as the gateway to the unique resources and programs of the Preserve. Multiple community partners provided the funds needed for the renovation of the exhibit hall which was completed in January of 2018. The new interactive exhibits carry the theme of One Water, Many Uses – Important for All. The public is welcome to explore the vibrant new space without charge seven days a week.

Bald Eagle Nest

Nature Store

Outdoor Experiences

Trail along fence line Located minutes south of downtown Hillsboro, Jackson Bottom Wetlands Preserve’s 635 acres are a quiet sanctuary for both people and wildlife. Over 211 species of birds are sighted annually at Jackson Bottom, including Bald Eagles, Great Blue Herons, and thousands of Tundra Swans and Northern Pintails, making Jackson Bottom a haven for bird watchers. The Preserve is home to deer, otters, beavers, and thousands of other species.

Providing interpretive education on wetlands and wildlife, panoramic views, natural resource management, trails, and recreation, Jackson Bottom Wetlands Preserve is a treasure for the entire region.

Junior Wetlands Ranger Program

Little boy standing in front of What's Your Wingspan banner

Learn about the Preserve while participating in fun activities. Check out the exhibits, observe wildlife, and complete the puzzles. Once completed, bring the Junior Wetlands Ranger booklet to the Nature Center during open hours to receive your certificate and sticker.

Bird Species Checklist

Storybook Trail

Adventure Labs

Geocaching Adventure Lab is a free app that allows you to participate in nature based experiences. Players are guided through the process of finding clues, solving puzzles, and completing Adventures one location at a time. Unlike traditional geocaching, Adventures do not require a physical container. Jackson Bottom host a couple of adventures as well as some traditional geocaches. The Geocaching Adventure Lab app is available through the App Store and Google Play.