I live just a few blocks from this park, and I frequent it often. It is awesome. It is part of a big park system that rings most of the Willamette River front in Eugene. There's a bike path along the river, there's an awsome playground including sand and water play for the kids, there's an awesome mini-butte for walking/hiking/viewing the city. Sometimes bald eagles nest on the butte and there are often ducks and osprey and great blue herons in sight. There are also huge swaths of open space for frisbee and that kind of thing. Plenty of picnic tables and trashcans and all that as well. There are also several war memorials near a separate little playground with a cute cemnt turtle and whale. Also an open ball field which hosts many a game of wacky adult kick-ball, but is usually just open for use. What else?? There is also a cute little building called Lamb Cottage that can be rented for small to mid-sized gatherings with a nice little kitchen. Food not Bombs sometimes uses it to feed the hungry.The restrooms are located by the big riverplay playground and are, um, uititarian (no doors, I suppose to discourage drug use and other unsavory hiding out activities), but clean enough. The next bit of park downriver (to the North) may or may not have a separate name, but it has a really lovely and fairly extensive rose garden and a crazy cool old Chinese Cherry tree or some such thing. There are also restrooms over here, but I havent been in them in a while, so no report onthem. It's definitely worth the little walk over to take time to stop and smell the roses.PLEASE be aware that people really do bicycle on the Bike path, so try to stay to the right and not to wander aimlessly out in front of them, and be very aware of where your dogs and children are--keeping them off on the grass to the side is safest! The cyclists try really hard to be polite, but the pedestrians need to do their part, too (full disclosure: I am Both!).Maybe I'll see you there!
With the wife out shopping for staples for our oldest son's apartment in his last year at the U of O, my other two son's and I decided to explore Eugene a bit. The three of were dropped off at Skinner Butte Park for some hiking. Small short trails, some a bit steep but still manageable weave around the Butte. From the top there is a great view of the city and Autzen Stadium despite the low lying haze over the city. If you want to spend an hour or so hiking in the city and then just a short walk to downtown for something to eat...this destination should be on your agenda.
This is a great place to visit, right along the Willamette River, not too far from downtown Eugene. It offers lots of paths, great for bike riding or walking, and you can't beat the view. There are also bridges that cross the river or go down close to the University of Oregon. Many miles of fun!
The drive to the top of the butte had a nice overlook view of the city of Eugene. There are some nice playgrounds in the park along the river that the kids really enjoyed. I would not recommend using the bathroom facilities as they are quite dirty.
Best play area near the downtown shopping, hotels and restaurants. Short walk from most anywhere near the University. Hiking, river trail and children's playground all within the park area. Water feature for children to cool off during those hot summer days.
Great park with trails, river vow and playgrounds for both bigger and smaller kids Bring a towel because there is a water fountain and mine always end up soaked
Easy to get there, a short drive from Eugene downtown. Lots of paths to walk or bike and tou're almost in the wilderness. Great for relaxation and exercise.
Gives a decent view of Eugene, and I saw an eagle. What more can one say? It's a reasonable hike in the heart of town.
My mom has pictures of my brother and I playing on the "whale" at this park from 45 years ago. We make it a habit to stop here nearly every time we are visiting. Ride up the hill for gorgeous views of Eugene, as well as the chance to slide on the "O". Lots of play areas, open fields and structures. One play area has a fun water feature. Our younger children and our teens all enjoy this park. The Willamette River Walk is also a tradition and well worth the time - the park is right off the river walk.
This might be the best kid playground we have been to. The detail that the planners went to to incorporate local culture is amazing. This park, as silly as it is, was one of the highlights of the trip.