Top Public and Private Dog fields in McMinnville, Oregon

4.83(18)

Farm pasture. Please leave dog on leash until fully inside gate. There are other animals outside of this fenced pasture that I want to make sure stay safe. This includes goats, cats, chickens, etc. Your pet is welcome to admire them through the fence:)

4.99(183)

Beautiful sunrises and sunsets on this fully fenced private dog park. Mostly level and all grass -- a great site for running. Views abound beneath the large walnut tree of the Cascades and Parrett Mountain.

4.95(80)

4.90(59)

Fully fenced yard with big shade tree and running space. Across the street from a laundry mat, Grand Central Bakery, and Mississippi Street amenities. Let your dogs play then enjoy your own activities nearby. Our area is busy and parking is tricky. Please let us know ahead of time if you need dedicated parking for mobility concerns. We will try to be sure a spot is clear for you. You can park in the driveway or in the grass. Big trucks come through the alley so staying off the alley pavement is necessary.

4.98(191)

This is our second spot. PLEASE MAKE SURE YOU GO TO THE RIGHT SPOT. Sauvie Island Farm #2 ‘shady acres’ is a fully fenced area in the back of our farm, cool and shady for these summer days. Plenty of sniffs, eagles, rabbits, deer, and other wildlife. Great views. Private. Some farm machinery and active farm fields will be visible. It is accessed by driving through the main gate to the house, and then following the signs slowly to the back pasture. It does not require 4WD. Hiking shoes or hiking boots are best here. Let us know if you have any trouble.

4.99(857)

As many reviews will confirm, this is a beautiful park area. Signage to guide you for easy access in and out. Upper and lower parking areas for multiple cars. The Ritz Carlton(Porta Potty)for humans with sanitizer, lime dispenser to process waste and illuminate order. A large mowed areas to throw a ball or Frisbee. Golf Frisbee catchers, with an assortment of putty. Mid range and long range frisbees. A Water World play area that includes a man made pond. The pond is fed by The Mud Creek, which accumulates and then passes through to continue for miles. The pond has an easy access area in with a slope into the water for young and senior pups. A small water craft selection, which includes a John boat, two varieties of kayaks and a paddle boat .. A selection of different size life Jackets for pups and humans. A bulletin board with a sample display of a Blue Green Algae test kit that can be purchased on Amazon. An area next to it where guests who do the tests can post the day, time and results for other pup owners to see. An array of pup towels to dry off dry off with and a “Solar Powered Drying line to hang them on. There are multiple large shaded sitting areas to relax, take a breath and simply enjoy the piece and serenity of this magical little hidden valley. A 10’x 10’ sand filled “Pup Dig Box” for those pups who just have a need to dig. A “Tug of War”spring loaded grab bar for pups who just like a really good tug of war. Multiple pup fresh water dispensers, with bowls for them. Multiple Doggie Poop Depots with poop bag dispensers for your convenience, no need to carry that around while you explore the 15 acres. We want to give you an easy opportunity to pick up and deposit your pups 🐶 poop. (Fair Warning.. very low tolerance for a guest who does not pick up after their pup) The Grand National little, kinda professional Obstacle Course with most of the obstacles course pieces seen on U-Tube. Good place to go learn how to train your pup to effectively use this course. If it’s at all possible the time sent learning this course and getting through it can bring you even closer together. There are multiple Toy stations with a large variety of toys to select from (Please be considerate for the next guest, return them back to the station after use). And if you have unused toys, please consider donating them for other pups to enjoy and let us know when you do so we can put your name into our drawing. The winner will get a choice of things that we will offer. This year and next we have a number of things that we will develop to add to what makes us a Dog Disney Land. A Dock Diving Ramp, A Glamp Site, The Done Bone Cafe, an urban obstacle course and play activities for humans. Continued development of additional loop Jurassic trails off of Jurassic main trail two (2). Anyone wishing to volunteer their time in the development of these additions are welcomed. They are welcome to bring their pup and any other family members to play at the park while we work.

4.98(486)

This is a working sheep farm. You may see rams in the adjacent pasture. The L shaped field is about 2.5 acres of open ground. A second field is now open, adding 3.5 acres of short grass. Feel free to park directly in front of the gate for ease of loading in and out. You may see me or my farm hand at work. If you need a no visual/no contact visit, please let me know in advance.

5.00(510)

23 beautiful acres with amazing views of the valley below. Good mix of fields woodlands short and long grass. A small creek runs thru the property. This is a small private homestead, we do have goats, chickens and ducks. Also a flower garden and fruit and nut trees. The front part of the property is fenced, but the rest of the acreage is not. We also have 2 doggy poop stations for you to dispose of all the gifts your pooch may leave behind. At the top of the hill there are 2 Adirondack chairs for you to catch your breath and take in the spectacular view, as well as a seating area in the woods!

4.99(1,229)

Welcome to Harlen's Three Mountain View Dog Park, where tails wag freely and furry friends frolic under the open sky. This haven for canine companionship offers a sanctuary of joy and excitement, set against the backdrop of breathtaking natural beauty (for humans too). Fully fenced for the safety and security of your beloved pets, Harlen's Three Mountain View boasts a sprawling expanse of lush greenery, spanning over an acre of play space. Surrounded by the majestic peaks of three towering mountains (Hood, Helens, and Jefferson), the park offers a picturesque setting that is sure to inspire both you and your four-legged companions. Whether your furry friend prefers chasing balls across the open field or exploring the grounds that meander through the park, there's something here for every pup to enjoy. As you watch your canine companion bound through the grass, their tail wagging with unbridled joy, you can't help but feel a sense of peace wash over you. In this idyllic oasis of happiness, the worries of the world melt away, replaced by the simple pleasures of companionship and play. So come join us at Harlen's Three Mountain View Dog Park, where every day is a new adventure and every bark is a symphony of happiness. Let your furry friend roam free in this haven of fun and friendship, and make memories that will last a lifetime.

4.99(4,527)

4 securely fenced acres of dog paradise. Open spaces to play fetch, or a game of puppy tag; mature Douglas fir's for shade and squirrel watching; and a small pond (more like a deep mud puddle masquerading as a pond) to cool off when the mood strikes.

4.94(1,092)

Nature in the City is a unique Private Dog Park that is 1 1/2 acres of beautiful natural land with varied landscapes. Step out of the city and into our nature park-like setting that features different areas including 2 grassy fields perfect for fetch w/discs, ropes, or toys, (balls are not best here due to all of the surrounding bushes), a couple of forested areas, several nature trails for hiking adventures, and a wetland-like area with a healthy little creek that’s a hit with the pups. They can wade, cool off, and drink from the natural water. Your dogs will have so many different sniffing and secure off-leash exploring opportunities here! Our spot is so much more than just a fenced field! The area is diverse and so much fun for your dog(s)! This is a great spot to work on recall. There are a couple areas on some of the trails that are a little steep, so people with limited mobility may have issues in these areas of the spot. There are plenty of spaces and trails that are suitable for all abilities. There are three small bridges over the creek, (located at the East end, middle, and West end). If you’re looking for a basic fenced field to play chuck-it then this probably isn’t your spot. We are continually working on our property, so every time you visit you will see improvements! We provide a rain/sun shelter with 4 foldable chairs (message us in advance if you need more chairs and we’ll put them out for you), and lots of supplies including dog toys & balls, poop bags, hand sanitizer, natural bug spray, sunscreen, wipes, hand towels, first aid kit, and a cornhole yard game. We also provide snacks and beverages for humans and doggos! Located outside are 2 zero-gravity reclining chairs, a kids size picnic table, a round metal outdoor table w/umbrella & 4 metal chairs, and fresh drinking water for your pups. There are open areas with sun ☀️, and there is shade all day due to many large trees. Our property is VERY secure with 5 to 6 ft fencing. We walk the fence line regularly and check to make sure it’s secure. We are located close-in on the Westside of Vancouver one mile from I-5 on 78th Street in West Hazel Dell near Felida. *It gets muddy in areas when it has been wet/raining outside. We have wood chips along trails and in muddy areas which help a lot! Come prepared so you enjoy your visit. **We have night lighting! There’s 6 solar flood lights in the main field area for those of you who want/need to visit after dark. They provide subtle light at the entryway, main field, and the shelter for about 4-5 hrs after it gets dark outside. If you want to explore the trails after dark we recommend putting a collar light on your dog(s), and that you bring headlamps and flashlights 🔦. ***Seasonal Alert 🚨- It’s baby bunny 🐰 season March-September. They usually hide pretty well, but if your dog finds a bunny nest please cover it back up, and if a baby wanders out please put it back and redirect your dog(s). Baby bunnies have no scent to protect them from predators so even the best sniffers won’t smell the nests/bunnies. They would only notice the babies if they see them. We look forward to hosting you and your pups! 🐶 Thank you!

4.98(1,583)

The outdoor space is available during daylight hours. Indoor space is available as an add-on and recommended for evening visits or during inclement weather. First-time guest? Use discount code FarmPlay for a $5 discount. Are you fostering or training a dog? Use code FosterSF&G for a $5 discount. This is a 5-acre farm, with 1 full acre dedicated to the sniff spot. The pastures are cross-fenced, allowing for room to explore but not too far. An indoor riding arena is available as an add-on. It is enclosed on three sides, keeping the wind and weather out during playtime. It is well-lit for evening use. Horses offer additional entertainment but are always a safe distance with a large space (enough to drive a large truck through) between fence lines. The animals are not reactive to the dogs even when barking at them. The farm animals don't respond to the dogs, so often the dogs move on to exploring the space. We have some simple agility items in the space along with balls and other toys to help entertain both you and your dogs. As a guest, you have access to: * Fully Fenced Acre of play space for off-leash adventures * Water - Lift the green handle to start the flow of water * Poop baggies * White garbage can * Dog towels, clean ones in the clear container, and dirty ones go into the grey tote. We ask you to use 1 towel per visit if possible. * Porta Potty * Shelter with chairs and a small table you can put anywhere in the field during your visit we just ask that you put them back when you are done. * During the summer days we include a doggie pool. They are blue kiddie pools. Double them up when you use them so they are easier to empty and less likely to break. Please dump the pool and return it to the corner when you are finished. IMPORTANT SAFETY INFORMATION: This is a field that has uneven ground including mole and gopher holes. Please watch your step. Please keep within the Sniffspot area. If you happen to throw a ball over a fence just message me and I can retrieve it for you. It is important to stay outside of areas marked private property. Those gates also have extra locks, but we want to be sure everyone stays safe. USE OF INDOOR ARENA: During harsh weather (over 95 degrees or winter would be those days of wind and heavy rain) the indoor arena may be an option. YOU MUST MESSAGE me before the visit to ask for us so we can make that ready for you if it is available. That space is in an area marked private property. Access is granted when the indoor space is reserved as an add on. We are excited to have you come and share this special place with us.

4.99(2,167)

Please text 503 367 8737 or 503 201 5454 when u book. We have field and river access. 2 mile loop if you walk around the property. 3/4 mile walk on riverfront with large campsite available. Flat fields, hills, grassy lake land, waterfront. We are Open 5am until Midnight in the field. We also rent our riding arena which is fully enclosed. Its sniffspot Sauvie Island Spot 2 and it open 5am to 10pm

4.99(2,524)

AS YOU KNOW, WE TRY HARD TO KEEP THE PARKS UPDATED AND COMFORTABLE FOR EVERYONE, TWO AND FOUR FOOTED. THANKS FOR YOUR LOYALTY AND SUPPORT! WE APPRECIATE IT! OPEN SUNUP TO 10P NIGHTLY! VERY IMPORTANT!!! EACH PARK (F1 AND F2) HAS A SEPARATE ENTRANCE AND DRIVEWAY WITH THE SAME ADDRESS. SO, YOU MUST READ THE SPECIFIC DRIVING DIRECTIONS INTO EACH PARK. PLEASE TELL YOUR FRIENDS TOO IF THEY'RE MEETING YOU HERE. THANK YOU!!! upon entering into either park, you won't be able to see people or dogs in F2 while you are in F1. Proud to be Sniffspots most popular park(s) with the most reviews. Read about us in the February 27, 2024 issue of Newsweek magazine, June 5, 2023 issue of Womens World Magazine, and the Business Insider's June 9, 2022 articles. The wading pool is out, with the hose nearby for you to let Fido cool off during the hot days and evenings of summer. Just please be water wise, and only fill a few inches up. If your dog dirties it up, please dump it out for the next guest to use. You and your pups will love our very artistic boho farm! Mud free paved entrance and patio, extra picnic table, chairs and tables, swing, toys, night lighting til 10pm, light up collars/leashes upon request, disc golf basket, clean porta potty access, doggie poop bags hanging all around the field w/disposal cans! There's alot more to the 7 1/2 acre farm that makes it very unique. it's sort of like a rural "Portlandia". We've hosted dozens of weddings, parties, concerts, and reunions here in the past. So, just ask if you'd also be interested in using the farm for your own special event! We've had tons of doggie play date and birthday parties here. Just inquire first letting me know how many cars there'd be. If too many cars for F1, then F2 will work out during dry months, as you can drive your cars right into the field. Hope to see you and your pups playing out here soon! We try very hard to remain the #1 spot between both parks, globally. Thank you for helping us achieve that by continuing to support us!! Combined we are now over 5K reviews!

5.00(19)

Pigs, sheep, turkeys and chickens are on the farm. Stay clear of pasture fencing. Hot wire used inside of the pasture, don’t touch. Wildlife walk the trails too. Use caution. 200 foot elevation gain from the bottom of the property to the top. Hiking up and down hill is required. Wide dirt and/or grass trails. Several trails that intersect with each other. Grass field area off trail available. Seating and dog water available on the trail. We offer fresh $5 egg and $10 firewood bundles that you can pay cash, Venmo for here or on this app.

4.98(507)

Private Dog Park on 1+ Acres near Mt. Scott Creek: Just 5 minutes from Clackamas Town Center, our one-acre enclosed field offers open space, rolling hills, and the serene Mt. Scott Creek meanders through the property. The creek flows year-round—its levels dip in summer—and there are several spots where pups can wade and cool off on warm days. Please note: the creek is not fenced at both ends. Our field is pesticide-free and treated with organic diatomaceous earth in early spring and late fall to sanitize and keep it free of pests. The creekside can be muddy during winter, but most of the property—especially the upper fields—remains dry year-round. Sniffin’ Hours: Monday to Sunday Spring & Summer: 8 AM – 8:30 PM Autumn & Winter: 8 AM – 4:30 PM During your visit, our two 5-year-old Doberman-Mastiff mixes will remain indoors so you and your pup can explore freely. Thanks for Sniffin’ at our Spot! —Daniel & Family

4.98(337)

Memphis’s meadow is fully fenced with new 5ft field fence. The lowest point is a three foot man gate by the house. It’s beautifully sloping park like setting with large mature trees. There is always shade to be found no matter the time of day. We offer extra amenities and are always open to suggestions! There is a larger 8ft wide stock gate (also secured with woven 5 foot fence) near the parking area. This is marked with a beautiful wood sign and sharing library. Please help yourself. We have two green chairs please feel free to move them around the yard as you wish and a picnic table to enjoy morning coffee, lunch break with your pooch or even a nice evening picnic to watch the sunset. We have added a gazebo for enjoyment on sunny days and rainy day’s alike! Feel free to send us a note if you have a special request or ideas on how to make your visit more enjoyable! As a note, we do have chickens across the driveway from where you access the spot. They are secure in their own space. If you are interested in farm fresh eggs let me know and I can set a dozen out for a small donation. Egg cartons are always welcome! If you would like to book a time that is blocked off, please send me a pm and we will work out a time.

4.95(432)

Fully deer fenced acre+ space with seating, vineyard views, rolling field, outhouse, and casual wine tastings on request with booking

4.92(60)

You and your dog are welcome to roam the 20 acres just not the barns. The pond is also a fun place for dogs to get muddy and jump in the water. Dogs also have a lot of fun hunting moles and field mice. You may encounter wild turkey, bunnies, birds of prey. Enjoy your time in solitude with your dog.

4.95(545)

Close to downtown Corvallis, come let your dog run free and just be a dog for a little while. Our newly fenced in area is a work in progress and we will be adding more things to do for pups and their humans. If there is anything you would like to see added in the future, please don't hesitate to let us know.

4.98(531)

This is a fenced, grassy, fairly rough pasture a short drive out of town, perfect for training and playing with your dog. Chairs and picnic table available. Note: during heavy rains in the winter months the field will be closed due to the wear and tear on the grass. Closures will be noted in the title page. There is a small drainage ditch in one corner of the field. A bowl and faucet are available for your use during warm weather, there is detergent there if you want to clean out the bowl. However, water will be turned off during winter. Doggie bags are available as well as a bucket for you to drop them in. Note: if you have questions about sniffpass or would rather just pay for a booking here or there without purchasing sniffpass, please contact me. If you go regularly, sniffpass is definitely better.

4.61(31)

We have logging roads and fields open to dog owners. Enjoy our scenic 120-acre farm with your puppies. Please feel free to leave a review. The landscape is unmanicured and slightly wild with quail, rabbits, and deer frequenting the area daily. A new forest has been planted, and the baby trees we ask to be left at peace to grow. We might be out working somewhere else on the farm and hope to see the blackberries slowly diminish, making this place more hospitable every year.

4.99(643)

Welcome to Red Barn Run located in Ridgefield, Washington. This five acre space is a mile off of I-5. Enjoy a peaceful country setting with a wide open field and scattered shade trees. Let your pampered pets get all their wiggles out as they run, run, run! 🐾🐾

4.98(1,036)

Hello I am Mookie, a Golden Doodle who loves to play ball and my Human is Grace. She got me this place with a long yard, perfect for playing with a chuck it! I begged for a pug and she let me have Frankie. We are happy to share our yards which have different areas for different Dog needs. Human needs can be taken care of too. We are relatively new to Sniffspot and will be adding new features as we go. Our pictures show how much we have changed since we opened the very snowy end of January. Frankie and I will not be coming out to visit your dogs, but once you leave we will enjoy learning about them on our scent hunt. We believe this will create a lot of interest and fun for us and for your special family members too. A little info about my place, I have safe space to unload and load the doggos. Important to close the gate as you enter and exit the property. Everywhere is fenced. It is 2 acres total, the area that you will be playing in is a very nice long field with a small pool which gets changed between guests, and a larger one that My human adds water to between guests. it looks dirty, however, it is from the sand box and dirt hills that my human made for the dogs to play in. It is too large for her to clean after each guest. There is a water hose with a shower head that you can use for play and clean up as well. Added attraction, MOLES and we love sniffing after them. Be watchful of holes that my human missed filling between guests, she tries very hard to find them, but Frankie is a digger! This is a place for fun , everything is not perfect , but the yard is a lot of fun for Frankie and also for me! We love to explore and sometimes we see deer here and other wild animals! UPDATE: All fences are secure. IF for some reason your dog slips out the farm gate entrance to the sniff spot, the entire property is fenced, and your dog will not get out. There is a shade canopy which will protect from the rain and some chairs to relax in. You may encounter holes because dogs love to dig in the soft turf and the hill of dirt, please let me know if you find some that my human and I have not gotten filled between visits and she will fix that! With so many trees, there will be branches down. I find that the dogs love to pick through those sticks. I try to keep on top of the really big ones, but if you see any let my human know. PLEASE NOTE: If your ball or other toys go over the fence, they now belong to my neighbor! PLEASE You must not go over the fence to get them!! I have other balls and will be happy for you to use them while here, if they go over, I can deal with him later! Thank you for your consideration of my neighbors. Please take pictures of your beautiful happy dogs and share here! Let's make other dogs and humans know there is a safe place to play! Thank you and we look forward to making dogs happy so that they can live their best lives! Additional note. WE have two safe yards (Never booked at the same time) completely fenced. The entry is also securely fenced. I need advanced notice if you wish to use the additional yard as it is close to my house. Your action of closing the gate upon entry and exit keep all dogs safe. Thank you all for your consideration! Come VIsit us at Mookie's Magic Meadows for a Magically fun time!

4.81(203)

This is a fun spot fully fenced in across a small foot bridge with double gates for easy entry and exit from parking area. Open 7am-9pm everyday! Check us out on IG @industrial_dog_park (503)406-5888

4.97(274)

Come play or just hang out and relax at our peaceful quiet 3 fully fenced acres with a seasonal creek loads of open space to play fetch or just romp around. There is a kiddy pool available for splashing (seasonally)and a tunnel, weave poles, teeter totter, shute, tunnels and some other toys available. If you are lucky you could see deer elk or even an eagle or the cow's next door. There are chairs to sit in out in the back pasture in the shade. Lots of toys and open space to run and sniff. We do have neighbors with dogs and other animals.

4.96(68)

Open range meadowland, woodland adjacent - Available Seasonally.

4.99(1,578)

Sapphire Point Private Dog Park A Wilderness Adventure for You and Your Best Friend Escape the noise and leash up for freedom at Sapphire Point—10 serene, unfenced acres of private forestland nestled in NW Portland. With panoramic mountain views, peaceful hiking trails, and a seasonal creek, this is your dog’s dream playground—and your peaceful retreat. Let your pup run free, sniff to their heart’s content, and explore new terrain while you enjoy the natural beauty all around. Our four primary trails are clearly marked with pink ribbons, and the perimeter is flagged with white ribbons for safe, easy navigation. Whether you’re seeking off-leash fun or a quiet forest hike, Sapphire Point offers both. Our gently sloping hills provide a fun workout for you and plenty of play space for your pup. You’ll find resting benches tucked throughout the trails—perfect spots to catch your breath, soak in the views, or share a trail snack. Make your visit an adventure, not just another walk. 🌲 Unleashed freedom 🏔️ Epic mountain views 🐾 Private, uninterrupted space 💧 Seasonal creek for splashy fun 📍 Easy-to-follow trail markers 🪑 Benches for resting and snacking 📸 Follow us on Instagram for trail updates: @sapphirepointfarm

4.98(2,939)

.Proud to be chosen as Sniffspot's global business model again in the February 27, 2024 online Newsweek magazine, the June 5, 2023 of Womens World magazine. Also featured in Business Insider on June 9, 2022. NOW YOU'RE WELCOME TO DRIVE ONE RIG INTO THE FIELD, MUD FREE (stopping at end of asphalt), then closing the big farm gate behind you so that you can release your 10# and over pup(s) without leashes. or worry of them getting into the road! VERY IMPORTANT: EACH PARK (F1 AND F2) HAS A SEPARATE ENTRANCE AND DRIVEWAY WITH THE SAME ADDRESS. SO, YOU MUST READ THE SPECIFIC DRIVING DIRECTIONS INTO EACH PARK. PLEASE TELL YOUR FRIENDS TOO IF THEY'RE MEETING YOU HERE. THANK YOU!! Upon entering, you won’t be able to see the people or dogs in field one (F1) while you are in F2. Maybe just a glimpse of them when they are arriving or leaving their cars from a distance. We have buildings and trees that separate the two. We offer poop bags all around the field, and a garbage can for your use (used poop bags only please). If you happen to see a pile someone missed, please help us out, but PLEASE BE AWARE OF YOUR PETS AND PICK UP AFTER THEM, TOYS TOO!!!. Thank you so much for your cooperation! We also provide a large fence attached bowl and water hose, balls/chukits and fun toys, comfy swing, and plenty of tables/benches. ALSO, if you'd like to have an event on our farm anywhere, we can discuss your wants and make something work for you. We also host overnight stays in two cottages we have on the property. BUT, you CANNOT bring your pets here to stay the night. We want to keep the cottages pristine and dander free for our Airbnb glamping guests that book here. Thanks for reading! Hope to see you here soon! We know you will love our magical farm!

4.98(397)

We are also hosting our yard with Rome. New to Rome? Use this code for a first time discount our space. https://theromeapp.app.link/5HtIvVCKlPb Newly expanded area- now 1.25 acres. More room to run at the same price! 🌲 🌲 🐕 🐩 🌲 🌲 Our place is peaceful and fun to explore. Great for dogs of all temperaments. We have a private parking area with a double gated system to keep everyone safe. Fully fenced area with beautiful views. A great space for all dogs with all energy levels. There is a large willow tree that provides amazing cool shade during the warm months and protection from the weather during rainy months. There is some standing water in parts of the fields during rainy seasons. Please pick up after your dogs. There are fruit trees on site. Feel free to take as much as you would like for yourself, your livestock or for compost! If you loved your visit, please share your experience with family and friends! **Interesting ecological fact if you see rainbow coloring on top of some of the standing water… it is NOT from chemicals or an oil slick. Here’s the explanation. 🙂 A common naturally occurring oily sheen originates from the seed cones of cypress trees. The cones usually fall into the water below the cypress, and an obvious rainbow sheen forms on the surface around the seed pod. In puddles of woodlands or around the edges of stagnant or very slowly moving water, it is common to find sheens covering the water in and about leaves and other vegetation. It is tempting to wonder what form of pollution resulted in the sheens, but the answer is microscopic - and natural. Tiny iron-loving bacteria of many types may be involved. A common tale is that some species of bacteria that live in areas with no oxygen (anaerobic conditions) get their energy by converting Ferric Iron (Fe III) to Ferrous Iron (Fe II) (chemists call this process reduction). As the Ferrous Iron moves through the ground water, it encounters water with oxygen, chemically fuses with the oxygen (chemists call this oxidation), then precipitates (separates from the water) and floats on the surface as a colorful sheen. There are species of bacteria that may help accelerate the oxidation process, and the most common is Theobacillis ferroxidans. At times, a significant area of the water’s surface may be covered and the sheen is as reflective as a mirror, having little rainbow-effect.