What is Little Float?

Little Float Milwaukie is a unique summer event that brings our community together to celebrate the Willamette River, enjoy the outdoors, and experience Downtown Milwaukie in a whole new way.

Hosted by the nonprofit Downtown Alliance of Milwaukie (DAM), Little Float takes place each year during the first weekend of August at Milwaukie Bay Park. As the first water-based community event of its kind in Milwaukie, Little Float encourages residents and visitors alike to gather, connect, and enjoy one of our city's greatest natural asset—the Willamette River.

The Experience

On the Water:

• Inflate your floatie at our Inflation Station at Milwaukie Bay Park
• Shuttle ride via pontoon boat to Elk Rock Island
• Leisurely 0.4-mile float back to Milwaukie Bay Park
• FREE tours of Elk Rock Island available through the Milwaukie Parks Foundation (offered after you arrive by pontoon boat)
• Safety rope line for support and rest stops
• Pontoon Boat stops along the way
• Trained volunteers and safety personnel throughout

At Milwaukie Bay Park:

• Food vendors (food, coffee, drinks, beer)
• Information booths
• Live music from local bands and performances by a local legend DJ
• Handmade boats demonstration
• Swimming area on the beach to relax after your float
• Plenty of seating and shade to connect with neighbors
• Changing stations to get out of your wet clothes

Whether you're floating, exploring the island, enjoying live music, grabbing food, or swimming—Little Float is a full-day celebration of community, recreation, and everything that makes Milwaukie special.

Our Purpose

Little Float supports DAM's mission to foster growth, revitalization, and a strong sense of community in Downtown Milwaukie. By creating a fun, accessible event centered around our waterfront, we hope to bring people together, encourage exploration of downtown, and create a new summer tradition for generations to come.

The Float Path

The Little Float experience consists of two simple steps:

• Step 1: Begin at Milwaukie Bay Park dock—volunteers help you board a pontoon boat with your floatation device and life jacket, then transport you to Elk Rock Island
• Step 2: Disembark at Elk Rock Island and float independently back to Milwaukie Bay Park at your own pace

Safety Features:

• Rope line extending from Elk Rock Island to Milwaukie Bay Park (separates boat and float traffic, provides handholds for rest)
• Trained volunteers and safety personnel stationed on water and shoreline

Distance: Approximately 0.4 mi
Average Float Time: 20-30 minutes (depending on river conditions and individual pace)