This little slice of paradise sits pretty along the Sammamish River, just a hop, skip, and a jump from downtown. Whether you’re a nature lover, a playground enthusiast, or just looking for a place to let your inner child run wild, Log Boom Park has got you covered. It’s like the Swiss Army Knife of parks – compact, versatile, and ready for anything. So, grab your sense of adventure (and maybe some bug spray) and come on down to Log Boom Park for a day of fun, laughter, and making memories that’ll last a lifetime!
An Ideal Destination for Families, Children and Nature Lovers
With it’s convenient location, scenic views and family-friendly amenities, Log Boom Park has become an ideal destination for parents and children looking to enjoy the great outdoors. The park’s open spaces, playground equipment and beach access provide plenty of room for kids to roam and play safely. Families can spend hours picnicking, flying kites, viewing wildlife along the river or taking leisurely strolls along the paved walking paths that meander through the park’s grounds. The park is also popular for birthday parties and youth group outings.
In addition to families with young children, Log Boom Park appeals to nature lovers thanks to it’s ecologically rich wetlands environment. The park features numerous mature trees, native plants and abundant wildlife watching opportunities. Visitors may spot blue herons, osprey, turtles, beavers and even an occasional family of otters frolicking in the river. The park also serves as an important habitat and nesting area for bald eagles.
Accessing and Navigating Log Boom Park
Log Boom Park spans over 60 acres along NE 175th Street in Kenmore. The main park area sits on the southern bank of the Sammamish River, just across from Bothell’s Blyth Park. A large gravel parking area allows easy access for vehicles, while the Burke-Gilman Trail offers pedestrian and bicycle access as well.
Once inside Log Boom Park, visitors will find paved walking paths that loop through open grass fields, playgrounds, picnic shelters and beach areas. The north section of the park features playground equipment, a large covered picnic shelter available for rent, grassy fields perfect for games of tag or frisbee and access to North Beach. Families often gather here to enjoy the playground and beach access.
The central area of Log Boom Park includes the main picnic shelter with stunning river views, the Forest Playscape featuring natural play structures and the Water Lily Underwater Viewing Platform. This area tends to be popular for picnics and taking in views of the wetlands environment along the Sammamish River.
Finally, the southern reaches of the park contain South Beach, more wildlife viewing platforms and access to the surrounding wetlands. Since this section is quieter, it appeals to nature lovers hoping to spot eagles, osprey, turtles and other wildlife along the river’s edge.
Top Things to See and Do at Log Boom Park
Log Boom Park offers an array of recreational activities well-suited for the whole family. During a visit to the park, be sure to check out the following top attractions and amenities:
Playgrounds and Open Spaces
The park features two different playground areas containing climbing equipment, swings and plenty of room to roam about. Kids can burn off energy scrambling over the structures while parents relax on nearby benches. Open grass fields also accommodate games, kite flying, frisbee and other activities.
Picnicking
Several picnic shelters are available to the public at Log Boom Park, including a large covered shelter that can accommodate up to 75 people. The shelters feature picnic tables and scenic views, providing the perfect gathering spot for a family meal or birthday party. The open grass areas also allow picnicking on blankets.
Beach Access and Swimming
Log Boom Park offers two gated beach areas along the Sammamish Rivers northern bank. The beaches provide access to the river, where visitors can go wading or swimming during warmer months. However, there are no lifeguards on duty at Log Boom Park, so swimmers should exercise caution, especially with young children.
Wetlands and Wildlife Viewing
As visitors stroll along the parks paved walking paths and boardwalks, they’ll enjoy views over wetlands, lakes and sloughs inhabited by turtles, fish, birds and other wildlife. Multiple viewing platforms allow visitors to watch for nesting eagles, osprey catching fish, grazing deer and more. The underwater viewing platform at the Water Lily platform provides a unique glimpse below the water’s surface.
Burke-Gilman Trail Access
The park provides access to the Burke-Gilman Trail – a popular paved multi-use trail that stretches from Golden Gardens in Seattle out to Bothell. Visitors can enjoy walking, jogging, biking or skating along this scenic trail while taking in views of Lake Washington and the Sammamish River valley. Entry points to the trail are located at both the north and south ends of Log Boom Park.
Boat Launch
For visitors with non-motorized watercraft such as kayaks, canoes or stand-up paddleboards, Log Boom Park offers a boat launch area at North Beach. However, there is no vessel moorage available. Those looking to go boating or fishing along the Sammamish River will appreciate quick water access from the park.
Community Events
Throughout the year, Log Boom Park hosts various community events like summer concerts, movies in the park, youth fishing derbies, toy boat regattas and festivals. Visitors can check Kenmore’s event calendar to see upcoming happenings during their trip. Popular annual events include Kenmore’s Fourth of July Celebration and the Log Boom Park Beer & Wine Garden over Labor Day weekend.
Park Rules and Regulations
Log Boom Park aims to provide a safe, enjoyable and ecologically responsible environment for visitors. As such, the following rules and regulations apply:
- Park hours are 4:00am to 11:30pm daily. Gates are locked overnight.
- Motor vehicles must remain in designated parking areas and are not permitted on walking paths or grass areas.
- Bicyclists must yield to pedestrians along park pathways and access roads. Helmets are recommended.
- Dogs must be leashed and picked up after across the entirety of the park.
- Alcohol is prohibited except at reserved picnic shelters or during officially-sanctioned events.
- Littering is strictly forbidden. Please dispose of trash and recycling properly.
- Collecting firewood, plants, fruits or disturbing wildlife is prohibited.
- Swimming is only allowed in designated beach areas and when lifeguards are not present, swim at your own risk.
- Amplified music, structures, inflatables, dunk tanks or ponies require a permit from the city.
- Visitors must follow all posted signage regarding access, environmental protection and closure notices.
If you’re thinking about causing a ruckus at Log Boom Park, you might want to think twice. The park police have a keen eye and a low tolerance for shenanigans. Break the rules, and you might find yourself getting the boot or even a fancy citation to add to your collection. But hey, it’s not rocket science – just be a decent human being, respect the park, the critters, and your fellow visitors. In other words, don’t be a Log Boom buffoon, and everyone will have a grand old time!
Nearby Attractions and Amenities
While families could easily spend an entire day enjoying Log Boom Park and it’s offerings, visitors may want to explore some of these nearby attractions to complement their outing:
Downtown Kenmore
Historic downtown Kenmore sits conveniently close to Log Boom Park, providing visitors with additional dining, shopping and activity options to enhance their daytrip. Family-friendly restaurants like Buncha Crunch Pizza or Daniel’s Broiler offer post-play dining. The town also offers various specialty boutiques, coffee shops, a bookshop with story times, a glass art studio and other locally owned businesses to explore. Parents will also find grocery stores and other needed amenities.
Saint Edward State Park
Saint Edward Park abuts the northern boundary of Log Boom Park, separated only by the main channel of the Sammamish River. Visitors can enjoy hiking over 328 acres of forested terrain and lake access at this state park while taking in views back towards Log Boom across the river.
Bastyr University Gardens
Also minutes from Log Boom Park, the Bastyr University Gardens span over 18 acres and showcase medicinal plants from around the world used for research. Wander wooded paths past healing gardens, wetlands and a scenic waterfall while identifying specially marked medicinal species.
Red Barn Ranch Petting Farm
For animal-loving kids, check out nearby Red Barn Ranch Petting Farm open seasonally from April to October. Children will enjoy feeding and petting sheep, goats, ponies, cows, pigs, rabbits, chickens and ducks at this family-run farm. Seasonal activities like corn mazes, hayrides or pumpkin patches add extra fun.
Juanita Beach Park
On the shores of Lake Washington, Juanita Beach Park in Kirkland offers an excellent spot for swimming, non-motorized boating, picnicking and ball sports less than 15 minutes by car from Log Boom Park. Families can easily pair a visit to this popular waterfront park with Log Boom for even more recreation options.
So don’t hesitate to make Log Boom Park your next destination for outdoor family fun. Pack up the family, invite friends and come immersed in nature alongside the scenic Sammamish River.
Planning Your Visit to Log Boom Park
Visiting Log Boom Park makes for a perfect spring, summer or early fall outing with plenty to see and do. As you plan your visit, keep the following tips in mind:
What to Bring
Come prepared for a variety of activities by packing:
- Picnic lunch, blankets, lawn chairs
- Cooler with snacks/drinks
- Water bottles
- Sunscreen
- Swimsuits and beach towels if swimming or wading
- Water shoes or sandals for beach play
- Bikes or skates to use on the Burke-Gilman Trail
- Balls, frisbees, kites for lawn games
- Binoculars for wildlife watching
- Rain jackets during cooler months
Having essentials like snacks, layers of clothing, hats and sun protection allows everyone to comfortably enjoy their visit.
Safety Considerations
While extremely scenic, Log Boom Park surrounds waterways fed by snowmelt from the Cascade Mountains, making them quite cold even during summer. Swimming is only permitted at North and South Beaches when a lifeguard is on duty during peak summer months. Take caution around unguarded waters and always watch children closely, as even shallow areas drop off steeply along the riverbanks.
Other wildlife like resident beavers and river otters call Log Boom home. Give these wild creatures plenty of space and never feed them human food. Also take care in areas frequented by ducks and geese.
Finally, some areas of Log Boom Park like the wetlands and side channels pose slipping hazards. Stay on marked, paved walkways whenever possible and avoid venturing onto docks or grassy banks especially when wet.
When to Visit
As an outdoor venue, Log Boom Park stays open year-round from 4am to 11:30pm daily. However, some amenities close or operate on shorter schedules during the colder months between October and April.
Peak visitation occurs during summer months when playgrounds open, lifeguards staff the beaches (Memorial Day weekend through Labor Day weekend), bathrooms remain unlocked and various community events transpire across the park.
While summer promises the best weather for water play and events, visiting during shoulder seasons means fewer crowds and costs. Come early spring to watch eagles nest or late fall to observe spawning salmon in the river. You’ll have nature’s beauty nearly all to yourself!
No matter the season, always check the weather and dress accordingly before heading out to play at Log Boom Park.
Expanding Log Boom Park
Due to Log Boom’s popularity, expansion plans are currently underway to enhance amenities and access at the park. Funded by voter-approved bonds and grants, park upgrades aim to improve features most valued by visitors while protecting the ecologically sensitive landscape.
Major expansion plans include:
Additional Parking and Entry Points
To reduce congestion, 31 extra parking spaces will be added along with a new park entry point at NE 175th Street and 96th Ave NE. An ADA-accessible ramp will also be constructed near the northern playground area. These additions should alleviate crowds and make access more convenient.
North Play Area Upgrades
The aging northern playground requires upgrades and new equipment, including modern play structures, a spinner tower, improved surfacing and better integration with surrounding nature. Nearby, a new picnic shelter will be added.
Shoreline Improvements
Log Boom aims to balance recreational access with preserving shoreline habitats. As such, strategically placed overlooks and an elevated boardwalk system winding through the wetlands will enable visitors to enjoy natural scenery without causing harm or erosion along the riverbanks. sections prone to flooding or erosion will also receive reinforcement.
Continued Maintenance
Ongoing stewardship ensures Log Boom Park remains an accessible community asset for generations to come. Kenmore prioritizes routine upkeep like grounds and trail maintenance, trash removal, storm cleanup efforts and preservation of historic structures like the log boom.
The planned upgrades, paired with mindful maintenance practices, will help Log Boom Park continue flourishing as a treasured community space for appreciating and protecting local ecosystems amid nature.
Costs and Expenses
| Expense | Cost |
|---|---|
| Park entry | Free (no entrance fees) |
| Parking | Free |
| Picnic shelter rental | $150/day (seats up to 75 people) |
| Boat launch access | Free |
| Burke-Gilman Trail access | Free |
| Swimming (beach entry) | Free |
| Lifejacket rental | $1 |
| Food concessions | Varies ($) |
| Community events | Free or ticket cost varies |
| Equipment rentals | Ranges from $10/hr for sports equipment up to $30/hr for bouncy house |
| Lodging | Hotels start around $90/night in nearby towns |
| Gas for driving | Gas prices average $4/gallon (mileage varies) |
FAQs
Yes, leashed dogs are welcome across all areas of Log Boom Park. However, they must remain leashed and owners need to clean up after them.
Visitors are welcome to picnic anywhere on open grass areas. Large covered shelters which can accommodate groups are also available for rent.
The Sammamish River running through Log Boom Park is open year-round for catch-and-release fishing with select seasonal closures to protect salmon runs. Those 15 or older need a fishing license.
Yes, a launch area for non-motorized watercraft is provided at North Beach with free access to the Sammamish River. No moorage or rentals are available. Those recreating on the river must wear life jackets.
No permanent food concessions exist, but food trucks sometimes visit larger events. Guests must pack picnic meals or visit restaurants downtown before entering Log Boom Park.
Final Thoughts
Nestled along the scenic Sammamish River just north of Seattle, Log Boom Park has something special to offer visitors of all ages and interests. Families flock to it’s playgrounds, beaches, walking trails and open fields for hours of recreation and renewal in nature. At the same time, wildlife enthusiasts admire resident and migratory animals frequenting land and water habitats throughout the park. Community events and holiday celebrations also draw loyal crowds, as this site has long served as Kenmore’s collective backyard – a place that sparks shared memories and brings citizens together.
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