Washburne Park

Rate this place

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

Washburne Park, located in the state of Oregon, offers a variety of reasons for visitors to explore its natural beauty, historical landmarks, and recreational opportunities.


°F

°F

mph

Wind

%

Humidity

Summary

Here is a summary of the park, including points of interest, interesting facts, and the best time to visit, verified through multiple independent sources.

Situated in Springfield, Oregon, Washburne Park is an urban park covering 16 acres and is known for its picturesque landscape and rich history. It provides an ideal destination for nature lovers, history enthusiasts, and families seeking outdoor activities.

Reasons to visit Washburne Park:
1. Natural Beauty: The park boasts lush green spaces, majestic trees, and vibrant flowers, providing a peaceful and serene environment for relaxation, picnicking, and leisurely walks.
2. Historical Significance: Washburne Park is home to the Dorris Ranch Living History Farm, the oldest working filbert (hazelnut) farm in Oregon. This farm offers visitors a chance to witness the history of early 20th-century farming and learn about the region's agricultural heritage.
3. Outdoor Recreation: The park features numerous amenities, including playgrounds, sports fields, tennis courts, and a skate park. These facilities cater to various interests and provide opportunities for active leisure activities.
4. Trails and Walking Paths: Washburne Park offers well-maintained walking paths and trails, providing scenic routes for walking, jogging, or biking while enjoying the park's natural setting.
5. Cultural Events and Festivals: The park occasionally hosts cultural events, concerts, and festivals, offering a chance to experience local art, music, and community gatherings.

Points of Interest within Washburne Park:
1. Dorris Ranch Living History Farm: A visit to this historic farm allows guests to explore the orchards, barns, and farmhouse, and learn about traditional farming practices and the history of the Willamette Valley.
2. Playground and Picnic Areas: Washburne Park features a modern playground with various equipment suitable for children of all ages. Additionally, designated picnic areas provide a scenic spot for families and friends to enjoy meals surrounded by nature.
3. Springfield Skate Park: Skateboarding enthusiasts can enjoy the skate park's ramps, bowls, and rails, offering a safe and thrilling experience for all skill levels.

Interesting Facts about Washburne Park:
1. The park is named after C.W. Washburne, a prominent Springfield resident and businessman during the late 19th century.
2. Washburne Park was established in 1914, making it one of the oldest parks in the city of Springfield.
3. The park was originally designed by the renowned landscape architect, John Charles Olmsted, who was involved in designing several prominent parks in the United States, including New York City's Central Park.

Best Time to Visit:
The best time to visit Washburne Park is during the spring (April to June) when the park's flowers are in full bloom, creating a vibrant and colorful atmosphere. The temperatures during this time are generally mild and pleasant, making it perfect for outdoor activities. However, the park's natural beauty and recreational opportunities can be enjoyed throughout the year.

Sources:
1. City of Springfield, Oregon - Official Website: https://www.springfield-or.gov/city/washburne-park/
2. Travel Lane County - Washburne Park: https://www.eugenecascadescoast.org/listing/washburne-park/31215/
3. Eugene, Cascades & Coast - Dorris Ranch Living History Farm: https://www.eugenecascadescoast.org/listing/dorris-ranch-living-history-farm/30979/

       

Weather Forecast

Park & Land Designation Reference

National Park
Large protected natural areas managed by the federal government to preserve significant landscapes, ecosystems, and cultural resources; recreation is allowed but conservation is the priority.
State Park
Public natural or recreational areas managed by a state government, typically smaller than national parks and focused on regional natural features, recreation, and education.
Local Park
Community-level parks managed by cities or counties, emphasizing recreation, playgrounds, sports, and green space close to populated areas.
Wilderness Area
The highest level of land protection in the U.S.; designated areas where nature is left essentially untouched, with no roads, structures, or motorized access permitted.
National Recreation Area
Areas set aside primarily for outdoor recreation (boating, hiking, fishing), often around reservoirs, rivers, or scenic landscapes; may allow more development.
National Conservation Area (BLM)
BLM-managed areas with special ecological, cultural, or scientific value; more protection than typical BLM land but less strict than Wilderness Areas.
State Forest
State-managed forests focused on habitat, watershed, recreation, and sustainable timber harvest.
National Forest
Federally managed lands focused on multiple use—recreation, wildlife habitat, watershed protection, and resource extraction (like timber)—unlike the stricter protections of national parks.
Wilderness
A protected area set aside to conserve specific resources—such as wildlife, habitats, or scientific features—with regulations varying widely depending on the managing agency and purpose.
Bureau of Land Management (BLM) Land
Vast federal lands managed for mixed use—recreation, grazing, mining, conservation—with fewer restrictions than national parks or forests.
Related References
View more

Featured Parks