All Along 164th St. Ridgefield, WA-15 Minutes from Vancouver, WA

This is the first in my Spring Break 2022 series. I hope you enjoy it.

I never knew about this crazy hidden tourist area until a friend invited me to the Fairgrounds Community Park. When I began delivering mail on this street, I found even more. This little tiny strip of land boasts a great deal of attraction in a rural setting. Let me tell you about it.

Fairgrounds Community Park

216 NW 164th St. Ridgefield, WA 98642

This park is amazing! I’ve been to several in Clark County and it remains one of my favorites for multiple reasons. It is not so new that it doesn’t get overcrowded but remains a vibrant and clean area for play, leisure, and exploration. Oh, and the views are incredible!

You drive up a hill to get to the park and the play structure is next to it in addition to some of the nicest bathrooms I’ve ever seen at a park. The play area lacks little and the meadow surrounding it is ideal for exploration, along with a fallen log that makes for a perfect photo opp. In the past, we’ve used the meadow for an Easter egg hunt with a group of friends. My son also had tee-ball practice in the upper field for several practice sessions.

There are so many great characteristics in this well thought out park. In addition to the play structure, here are some of my favorites.

The covered areas are large and seat up to 75 people combined, The trails weaving through the park are beautiful and paved. I’ve seen several families with multiple children of various ages enjoying the stroller-friendly paths and all other aspects of the Fairgrounds Community Park. There are a variety of trees, both large and small sprinkled throughout the grounds.

As I mentioned before, this is an INCREDIBLE PARK for families with multiple children. A quick note for breastfeeding mamas, if you go when the weather’s warm, be sure to bring a fan. It gets hot quickly, especially when watching children on the playground as there is little shade.

For more information, visit https://clark.wa.gov/public-works/fairgrounds-community-park.

Fig’s Lil’ Free Library-

606 NW 161st St. Ridgefield, WA 98642

Anyone who reads me knows that I am huge fan of Little Free Libraries. My colleague Lois told me about this renevated bus stop. I could never find it, however. When I went to the park I was thrilled when my friend told me it was just down the road, literally. My family has traded books out so often at this well-kept mini library. They have crayons and paper for the children while the adults browse as well. Unique treasures I’ve found at this one include a toy soldier to place on my shelf as a visual reminder to pray for our troops and a pocket copy of the U.S. Constitution. https://www.facebook.com/FigsLilFreeLibrary/

Misty Meadows Farm

809 NW 164th St, Ridgefield, WA 98642

This adorable farm boasts all sorts of goodies seasonally and are currently open for egg sales only. An advocate for local honey, I’m always on the lookout for some to enjoy. I’ve read that theirs is excellent and am looking forward to sampling it when ready. The have a variety of farm fresh items for sale, so check them out. Plus their yard decor is really cute. I won’t give it away; you’ll have to make a visit. https://mistymeadowsfarm809.wixsite.com/local

The Clark County Fairgrounds

OK, so this is my cheat item for the day. There is an entrance to the Clark County Fairgrounds on 164th St., I believe NE. It’s not a regular entrance so I don’t know what it’s for. Horses? Vendors? Bands?

OK, so this is also your cheat item of the day. Did you know the Fairgrounds has events that you can get into for free? No parking fee? Did you know they are entertaining? The only one I’ve attended was the dog agility trials at the Dr. Jack Giesy Arena, but it was so fun! The horse agility trials are coming up soon too and events change regularly. Here’s a list: https://www.clarkcoeventcenter.com/events

Who knew you could have an afternoon of fun along a rural street? I’ve hope you’ve enjoyed this read and the carefree spirit in which it’s written. On that note, I have a few people I’d like to thank. Thus, I dedicate this blog to my friend Shaylene for the afternoon spent here. and introducing me to some delicious and healthy chocolate. Also to Lois Lamkin; your local travel tips have been a compass on more than one occasion. Finally to Tallie for showing me the ropes of this great area and Celeste for the advice. Thank you both .

Reader, dream fearlessly, travel local, buy local, and remember just because it’s in your backyard doesn’t mean it’s not worth a visit.

Tammy