Guide to King City, Oregon

Living in King City, Washington County, Oregon, has been a pleasure. For a City with a population of just over 2500 on the outskirts of Tigard, there is a lot of things to do, and places to visit. www.kingcityoregon.com/local/cityinfo.html

Centered around Bull Mountain is a thriving community of both the elder citizens and younger families. There is an abundance of greenery, and easy access to all major routes and shops. Communities are varying from R.V. parks, manufactured home parks, to spectacular homes that would not look out of place in a Californian suburb.

There are a number communities that are for the over 55's, communities where families live, where children play in safety. Where you can even leave your door open during the day. It is valuable to live, work or visit a place that can boast such friendliness. Where the young and old appreciate each other, and are often found holding conversations on the corner. Crime is low, the police are friendly, and even have names other than 'Officer!'

There are properties of historical importance, and brand new developements that do not look imposing or out of place. The area is rich in nature, and wildlife habitats. Rivers and creeks that provide opportunities for sport, walks, boating, school lessons, science projects, nature spotters to name but a few! When you look at the urban sprawl going on all around King Cities boarders, it is hard to believe that there is a little enclave of beauty and relaxation, just off Highway 99.

One attraction for the more senior members of the King City community is, King City Golf Coarse. Spiraling between a picturesque landscape of homes and apartments on in over 55 community, and green park land. It is well kept and has all the features of its larger counterparts. Including a wonderful fountain in a small lake, which has many wild fowl as guests. Although only nine holes, it is both challenging and beautiful. www.golflink.com/golf-courses/course.aspx

King City Park is a relatively newer feature, it is developed for the community of King city and its visitors. It features a 12 acre nature reserve and child friendly play area, basketball court, tennis court and views of the Taulatin River. Along side the park has been built beautiful homes that boast amazing character. Some have wonderful views of the park itself. maps.google.com/maps

Just 2 miles south of King City is the enterance to Taulatin River National Wildlife Refuge and Study Center. Which borders King City, Parts of Taulatin and Sherwood. This is a spectacular haven for all types of wildlife. This I can guarantee is a place of exceptional beauty. With both Wetlands and woodland walks. Viewing points a study center, that houses a wealth of information. Wildlife that appears in front of your eyes, the area has a great many photo opportunities. So don't forget your camera! www.friendsoftualatinrefuge.org/The_Refuge/Wildlife.cfm On the subject of wildlife, I must not pass up this opportunity to mention King City being close to Oregon Zoo about 10 miles north. A short journey by car, with easy access by bus and Max Train Service. Oregon Zoo has its own train station which is very handy indeed. Oregon Zoo houses a world famous newborn elephant,Samundra, a real must to go and see while you are in the area. www.oregonzoo.org/Rose_Tu/updates.htm

Being along HIghway 99, better known as Pacific Highway, King City has access to a vast array of shops, business, and restaurants. You will not be short of things to do or see. King City has like most other communities its own shopping area and has ease of access to many other towns along Highway 99. The closest being Tigard, Taulatin and Sherwood. It is located some 17 miles south of the major city of Portland, which has a wealth of entertainment and shopping in itself. www.portland.com/photo-gallery.php

You may wish to buy yourself a manufactured home in one of the parks. Parks include Mountain View Estates on Bull Mountain, a family park. There is also on Bull Mountain, Eldorado Estates for the over 55's. Next door to Eldorado is another family park, King Village. All are well maintained and friendly. Property prices vary on these parks you can pick up a well looked after manufactured home for as low as $15.000. The parks all have low ground rent fees of around $500 which include your water and sewer bills. So if you are looking at a move into Oregon or just a get away holiday home, please give King City a look in. If you are passing by, drop in and have a look around. See you there!

Souces: Myself as a resident, King City Oregon Website, Portland.com, Oregon Zoo, Golf Links, Friends of Taulatin Refuge, Google Maps.