5 Best Parks in Portland for Your Spring Family Photos

Parks in Portland and spring brings a kind of magic that’s hard to put into words: soft golden light, blooming wildflowers, and the feeling of life returning after the long, gray winter. It’s one of my favorite times to photograph families outdoors. The air feels lighter, kids have space to explore, and parents can pause for just a moment to soak it all in.

Over the years, I’ve discovered a handful of beautiful, natural spaces that are especially lovely for spring sessions. These locations offer open space, gentle light, and a sense of calm that lets your family just be. If you’re planning a spring family photo session, here are five of my favorite spots to consider:

Table of Contents

• Powell Butte Nature Park
• Graham Oaks Nature Park
• Cooper Mountain Nature Park
• The International Rose Test Garden
• My Secret Natural Area
• Let’s Create Something Beautiful Together

1. Powell Butte Nature Park

Powell Butte is a dream in the spring. This expansive parks in Portland has wide-open meadows, winding trails, and some of the most beautiful light at sunset. It feels like you’ve left the city behind, but it’s still right here in Portland. I love bringing families here because it offers room to roam, natural textures, and a peaceful energy that helps everyone relax.

2. Graham Oaks Nature Park

Located just outside of Portland in Wilsonville, Graham Oaks is a quiet, lesser-known spot that’s perfect for families who want space and serenity. In the spring, the grasses start turning green, and the mix of oak trees and wide sky gives us a gorgeous, open-air backdrop. It’s ideal for playful, barefoot kids and connection-filled portraits that feel relaxed and natural.

3. Cooper Mountain Nature Park

Cooper Mountain has a soft, golden glow that’s particularly lovely in the early evening. With sweeping views, native wildflowers, and winding trails, it offers a peaceful setting for families to connect. It’s a place where kids can run and explore while I quietly document those real, love-soaked moments that tell the story of your family right now.

4. The International Rose Test Garden

For families who love a bit of color and charm, the Rose Garden is especially lovely in late spring. Rows of blooming roses, winding stone paths, and glimpses of Mt. Hood on clear days make this a truly unique parks in Portland. It does get busy, so timing is everything, but when we hit that sweet spot, it’s absolutely worth it.

5. My Secret Natural Area

This special location, whose exact name I keep under wraps, but I’d love to share it with you during our planning process. It is covered with delicate wildflowers and tall, green grasses in May and June. In late summer, the grasses turn golden and it’s often covered in wild daisies and Queen Anne’s lace. Sunset light glows beautifully here, and best of all, it’s peaceful, quiet, and feels like our own private slice of nature. It’s one of the best places to photograph families.

Let’s Create Something Beautiful Together

Whether you’re drawn to open meadows, wildflowers, or garden blooms, each of these parks in Portland offers something unique and heartfelt for your spring family session. I’ll help you choose the perfect fit based on your family’s vibe and preferences and guide you through every step of the process, from styling to artwork.

Curious to learn more about these spots then book your spring session in parks in Portland? Contact me and let’s start planning.

You might also enjoy these related blog posts:

● How to Prepare for Your Portland Family Photography Session

● Creating Family Photo Displays: Turning Your Portraits into Meaningful Home Decor

● Choosing the Right Photography Package: What You Need to Know