Waterfront Recreation

Life Jacket Program


In 2010, the Port partnered with the local Safe Kids Coalition, Home Depot and Cowlitz County to provide Life Jacket Loaner boards at major swimming locations in the area.

Because local lakes and rivers are extremely dangerous for recreational swimming, everyone should use a flotation device in the water. Signs on the boards encourage children to borrow a life jacket and return it to the board when they're done for the next child to use. The Port is a proud sponsor of the program!
3 Individuals holding life jackets

Supporting Local Launches



The Port had contributed nearly $1 million dollars to local projects that enhance waterfront recreation. As a business built on the water, the Port understands the need for riverfront access in support of recreation, commerce and emergency response.

Supported projects:
  • Al Helenberg Memorial Boat Launch
  • Gerhart Gardens Boat Launch
  • Willow Grove Boat Launch
Aerial View of Boat Launch

Port of Longview Comprehensive Park Plan

The Port has created this Comprehensive Park Plan in response to the 2016 acquisition of Willow Grove Park, the desire of Port Commissioners to ensure public involvement in the planning process and the future possibility of public access at Barlow Point. The Port has undertaken a wide range of public involvement activities to gain insight into public needs and desires for the Park. The Port will be undertaking a larger Public Access Plan in the future that will include this Park Plan as well as additional public access and recreational opportunities.

View the Comprehensive Park Plan here.

Plan Rendering