Things to do in Estacada and Sandy this August

August is one of my favorite months in Clackamas County. The days are long and golden, the rivers are warm enough to wade in, and our little communities really come alive with events, music, and the kind of outdoor adventures that remind you why living here is so special. Whether you are a longtime local, a new neighbor, or just considering making this area your home, here is what is happening around Estacada and Sandy this August.

Concerts in the Park — Estacada

There is nothing quite like a summer evening concert at Wade Creek Park. The City of Estacada's free concert series runs on select Thursdays this month, with shows from 6:30 to 8:30 PM. Bring a blanket, pack a picnic, and settle in for live music spanning classic rock and local favorites. The dates on the calendar are August 6 and August 20.

I always tell my clients that these concerts are the perfect introduction to the Estacada community. You will see neighbors catching up, kids dancing near the stage, and the kind of easy, welcoming atmosphere that defines small-town Oregon at its best. Wade Creek Park is at 600 NW Wade Street, right in town.

JESSFEST 2026

For country music fans, JESSFEST is a can't-miss event happening on 40 acres just outside of Estacada from August 19 through 22. This grassroots festival brings premier independent country artists to our corner of Oregon, and the setting is absolutely gorgeous — wide open fields, big skies, and the kind of down-home hospitality that makes you feel welcome the moment you arrive.

JESSFEST has quickly become a highlight of the summer season around here. Whether you are a die-hard country fan or just looking for a fun weekend out in the country, it is worth the trip.

National Night Out — August 4

National Night Out is happening Tuesday, August 4 at 5:00 PM at 747 NW Wade Street in Estacada. This is a wonderful community event that brings together local vendors, nonprofits, first responders, and neighbors. It is a chance to meet the people who keep our community safe, learn about local resources, and connect with folks you might not otherwise run into.

I love events like this because they remind me why I chose to build my career serving this community. Estacada is the kind of place where people show up for each other, and National Night Out is a perfect example of that spirit.

Milo McIver State Park — Outdoor Recreation Hub

Just a few miles from Estacada, Milo McIver State Park is a 950-acre gem along the Clackamas River. If you have not been, August is the perfect time to explore it.

The park features a world-class 27-hole disc golf course along the river, and you can rent or buy discs at the park office if you do not have your own. There are 14 miles of hiking trails ranging from easy to moderate, including the scenic Riverbend Loop and Vortex Loop trails. The Clackamas River and Estacada Lake are great for kayaking, paddleboarding, and swimming — and on a hot August day, there is nothing better than cooling off in that clear river water.

If you are bringing the family, the park has plenty of picnic tables and shelters. There is also camping if you want to make a weekend of it. And for anglers, the park has an on-site fish hatchery and great steelhead and salmon fishing when the runs are in.

Sandy Ridge Trail System — Mountain Biking at Its Best

Over in Sandy, the Sandy Ridge Trail System is one of the Pacific Northwest's premier mountain biking destinations. With over 17 miles of flowing single-track trails ranging from beginner to expert, this place sees over 125,000 riders annually for good reason. Located just east of town on the lower slopes of Mount Hood, the trails wind through beautiful forest with occasional views of the mountain.

Whether you are an experienced rider or just getting started, Sandy Ridge has a trail for you. The City of Sandy's website has a detailed guide to the trail system, including difficulty ratings and recommended routes.

Family Fun in Sandy: Splashpad, Bigfoot, and More

If you have young children, the Bornstedt Park Splashpad (19383 Pine Street) is the place to be on a warm August afternoon. It is free, it is refreshing, and it is a guaranteed hit with the little ones. The City's recreation programming moves to Bornstedt Park in August as well, so there is often something extra happening on-site.

A short drive east on Highway 26, you will find the North American Bigfoot Center in Boring, just past Sandy. This place is a hit with kids and curious adults alike, with exhibits, artifacts, and stories about the legendary creature of the Pacific Northwest. It is quirky, it is fun, and it is surprisingly well done. I have sent plenty of clients and their kids here, and the reviews are always glowing.

For a dose of local history, stop by the Philip Foster Farm, a living history site on the Oregon Trail's Barlow Road. It offers a fascinating glimpse into pioneer life and is a wonderful educational outing for families.

Jonsrud Viewpoint — Best Sunset in Town

Sometimes the best thing to do on a summer evening is simply find a beautiful spot and watch the sun go down. Jonsrud Viewpoint Park in Sandy offers panoramic views of the Sandy River Valley and Mount Hood that are genuinely breathtaking. Rated 4.8 out of 5 by visitors, this is one of those places that makes you stop and appreciate where you live.

Pack a blanket, bring a camera, and head up there around sunset. It is the kind of view that reminds you why people fall in love with this area.

More to Explore

The Estacada School District is running a Summer Parks Series through August, with activities at local parks on select dates — including August 6 at Campanella Estates Park from 6:00 to 7:30 PM. The Estacada Public Library has programming throughout the month as well.

And if you want to be prepared for whatever comes, the City of Estacada is hosting free 'Be 2 Weeks Ready' emergency preparedness classes throughout August. These workshops cover practical skills for disaster readiness, and I think they are a great example of how this community looks out for one another.

Why I love sharing this with you

After 20-plus years helping people buy and sell homes in Estacada, Sandy, and the surrounding areas, I have learned that a home is only part of the equation. The community you live in — the parks you visit, the events you attend, the neighbors you wave to — that is what makes a place feel like home.

Whether you are already living here, thinking of moving to the area, or just visiting for the day, I hope this guide helps you make the most of the beautiful month ahead. And if you are considering a move to Estacada or Sandy, I would love to show you around. Let me help with that.