Your Guide To
Ardenwald
Johnson Creek

A Chill Neighborhood that Straddles Portland and Milwaukie, Oregon

WOODSTOCK SOUTH TABOR SELLWOODMORELAND RICHMOND MT SCOTTARLETA MOUNTTABOR MONTAVILLA FOSTERPOWELL BUCKMAN BRENTWOODDARLINGTON HOSFORDABERNATHY SUNNYSIDE CRESTON KENILWORTH REED BROOKLYN EASTMORELAND ARDENWALDJOHNSONCREEK 205 5 84 205 84
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Discover the Peaceful Charm of Ardenwald

Ardenwald-Johnson Creek, or simply Ardenwald, is a peaceful neighborhood that straddles the border of Portland and Milwaukie. Known for its lush greenery and the beautiful Tideman Johnson Natural Area, it’s a haven for nature lovers and anyone who enjoys a slower, more relaxed pace. Homes here often sit on larger lots than you’ll find in inner Southeast Portland, offering more space, privacy, and room to breathe—while still being conveniently close to the city.

This neighborhood strikes the perfect balance between tranquility and convenience. It’s just a stone’s throw from downtown Milwaukie, where you’ll find a beloved farmers market, cozy wine bars, tasty local eateries, and even a nostalgic bowling alley for some old-school fun. The scenic Springwater Corridor Trail runs along Ardenwald’s northern edge, providing a 21-mile path perfect for cycling, jogging, or leisurely strolls, stretching all the way from Portland to Boring, Oregon.

For those seeking an affordable alternative near popular neighborhoods like Sellwood and Eastmoreland, Ardenwald is a fantastic choice. The Milwaukie side even comes with the perk of lower property taxes, making it especially appealing for budget-conscious buyers. Whether it’s the spacious homes, easy access to nature, or the neighborhood’s friendly community charm, Ardenwald truly has something for everyone.

Homes for Sale in the Ardenwald Neighborhood

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Fun Facts

Named After a Family Farm:
The neighborhood’s name, Ardenwald, comes from Ardenwald School, which was named after a local family farm owned by the Ardenwald family in the early 20th century.

Straddles Two Cities:
Ardenwald is unique in that it spans both Portland and Milwaukie, offering residents the best of both urban and small-town living.

A Wildlife Haven:
The Tideman Johnson Natural Area and Johnson Creek are home to a variety of wildlife, including birds, deer, and even salmon returning to spawn in restored creek areas.

Parks

With 17% of the neighborhood dedicated to green space, there’s no shortage of places to enjoy the outdoors. Locals love Ardenwald Park, Tideman Johnson Natural Area, Water Tower Park, and Balfour Park for everything from quiet walks to active recreation.

Points of Interest

This neighborhood offers easy access to the Springwater Corridor Trail, perfect for walking, biking, and connecting with nature. Johnson Creek adds a scenic, natural touch, while the nearby Milwaukie Farmers Market brings the community together with fresh produce, local goods, and lively gatherings. Tucked away in the middle of a residential area, the Milwaukie Bottle Shop is a hidden gem, serving up scratch-made buttermilk biscuits for breakfast and lunch alongside a curated selection of craft brews and ciders—a cozy spot that feels like a well-kept neighborhood secret.

Getting Around

With a Walk Score of 55, this neighborhood offers a balance between walkable spots and the convenience of driving when needed. Downtown Portland is just 16 minutes away by car, making commuting quick and easy. Public transit is also accessible, with 6 different lines, including MAX, streetcar, and bus routes, giving you plenty of options to get around. If you prefer biking, there are 3 miles of dedicated bike lanes and multi-use paths, adding up to 7.8 miles of bike routes per square mile for those who love to travel on two wheels.

Portland Side Schools*

Elementary: Duniway, Lewis.
Middle: Sellwood
High School: Cleveland

Milwaukie Side Schools

Elementary: Ardenwald
Middle: Rowe
High School: Milwaukie

*School boundaries can change over time, so it’s always a good idea to verify school assignments for any home you’re considering.

Check out Portland Public Schools’ general school map here or use their school finder tool here to get specific information for a property address.

Your Guide to Portland’s Distinctive Districts & Metro Area

At Campbell Salgado Real Estate Group, we have a personal connection to the Ardenwald neighborhood—our daughter and son-in-law live here, and they absolutely love the community’s charm, greenery, and proximity to nature.

It’s this firsthand experience that fuels our passion for helping others discover all that Ardenwald has to offer. Whether you’re drawn to its spacious homes, access to the Springwater Corridor Trail, or its unique blend of small-town charm and city convenience, we’re here to guide you every step of the way. With years of experience and a deep love for Portland’s neighborhoods, we pride ourselves on making your real estate journey smooth and enjoyable. If you’re ready to explore buying or selling in Ardenwald, we’d love to help. Call or text us at 503-951-8547 to get started today!

Kim Campbell & Francisco Salgado