News + Updates

At two critical board meetings held in February, the Hood River Valley Parks and Recreation District (HRVPRD) finalized the language for two May 19th ballot measures. Facing a facility that engineers have officially graded as “failing,” the Board is at a turning point: invest in facilities and programs for the community or prepare for closures due to funding shortfalls.

Kick off 2026 with something new! Hood River Valley Club Water Polo is starting next week for elementary and middle school students. This fast-growing sport combines swimming, soccer, and basketball into one exciting game. No experience is necessary, and a two-week trial period is available.

Hood River Valley Parks and Recreation District has received a grant from Oregon Parks and Recreation Department to purchase 4.1 acres of Parkdale Park, ensuring its preservation for public use. The land, donated at a reduced price by owner Michael Mills, features Mt. Hood views and open green space, serving as a vital community gathering spot. The project is moving forward with finalized agreements.

Hood River Parks & Recreation is exploring options for replacing or updating the aging Hood River Aquatic Center. We need community voices to guide this important decision.

Board meeting videos are now available on our YouTube channel! Catch up anytime and stay informed about what's happening at Hood River Aquatics.

Join us at the upcoming Community Open House at the Aquatic Center to discuss the pool's future and share your input.

A public meeting of the Hood River Valley Parks & Recreation District Budget Committee to discuss the fiscal year 2025-2026 budget will be held on Wednesday, May 14, 2025 at 6:00 pm. The purpose is to receive the budget message and public comment. Deliberation will take place at this meeting. The meeting will be available online at http://hoodriverparksandrec.org. To address the committee, email mark@hoodriverparksandrec.org by May 14, 2025 at 3:00 pm. The budget is available for review on the District's website starting May 8, 2025.

Join us tomorrow May 1st at 6:00 PM at the Hood River Library for the kickoff of the new HRVPRD Advisory Council. This group will provide community input on parks, trails, facilities, and funding initiatives, starting with the Pool Options Study. The Hood River Board of Directors is invited to attend. Stay engaged and help shape the future of our community’s recreation!

The regular March board meeting has been rescheduled to tomorrow, March 20th, at 6:00 p.m. due to a procedural error. Contrary to recent claims, no final decision regarding the sale of Barrett Park will be made during this meeting. Public feedback is encouraged, and anyone wishing to comment can do so by attending the meeting or by emailing feedback@hoodriverparksandrec.org. Additionally, a recording option for public comments will be available tonight at 6 p.m.

Join Columbia Land Trust on Saturday, April 5th, 2025, from 10:00 AM to 1:00 PM for a rewarding morning of stewardship along Indian Creek Trail in Hood River! As part of our long-term restoration plan, we will be focusing on enhancing the area by planting bare root native shrubs, laying down mulch, and removing invasive blackberry plants. This is a fantastic opportunity to come together as a community and transform our local environment into a beautiful space for nature and neighbors. Whether you're an experienced volunteer or a newcomer, your help will make a difference! Bring your friends and family for a day of meaningful work and connection with nature. Let's create a lasting impact together!

Experience the magic of nature and poetry at the Indian Creek Poetry Walk, opening on April 1 in celebration of National Poetry Month! This collaboration between the Hood River County Library District and Hood River Valley Parks and Recreation showcases fourteen nature-themed poems along a beautiful trail, paired with local photographers' stunning images.

Updated SDC rates that go into effect July 2025.

We invite you to take a moment to participate in our short survey. Your feedback will guide us in making meaningful improvements and expanding opportunities for all members of our community. Thank you for being an essential part of this process!