Our family at one time lived on 8 acres in the coast range of Oregon when we first moved to Sheridan in 1993. Here is a map of Gopher Valley. And yes, that does equate to a 60-mile drive into Portland for work or play. The family did not go into Portland often. We eventually moved into the town of Sheridan right next to the high school where David ended up going to school. The whole region was still in a beautiful area even if it was not out in Gopher Valley.
As I see it, many people go on vacation to spend time in a place as we lived in. There were disadvantages as well, however, the benefits of living out in the country far outweighed the benefits of living closer in. I sure do miss it but do not miss the work to maintain the farm.