Scobert Gardens

A Glimpse of Whiteaker History

Found in Eugene's eclectic Whiteaker neighborhood, Scobert Gardens has been a neighborhood green space since 1983. This 1.2-acre green space was developed through a combination of Community Development Block Grant funding and volunteer work.

Kid-Friendly Play Space

Scobert Gardens holds a special distinction as home to Eugene's first playground with a fully rubberized safety surface. More than just a cool feature, this surface has proven itself to be budget-friendly, easy to maintain, and - most importantly - safe for little adventurers. It's also wheelchair-accessible, meeting all the safety standards established by the American Society for Testing and Materials and the Consumer Products Safety Commission.

The playground equipment might show its age in places, but it's still perfectly functional for children looking to burn off some energy. Towering shade trees surrounding the play area offer welcome relief when the Oregon sun decides to show its strength.

Natural Beauty

One of the park's understated charms is its collection of beautiful flowers and plants that add color and life to the space. If you're in the mood for soaking up some sunshine or relaxing in the shade, the park offers plenty of spots for both.

Note that permanent restrooms here stay locked except during special events like the Sunday Market. You might find portable toilets (including ADA-accessible ones) on site at times, but there are no drinking fountains available, so bring your own water if you're planning to stay a while.

The Heart of Community Life

From May through October, the park hosts the Sunday Whiteaker Community Market, where local vendors sell their wares. Though small in size, the market packs plenty of character with friendly vendors offering diverse goods in a laid-back atmosphere.

The park also occasionally welcomes folk music concerts and community gatherings, making good use of its central location in the Whiteaker neighborhood that keeps it easily accessible for both locals and visitors.

Looking to the Future

Like many urban parks, Scobert Gardens has faced its share of challenges in recent years, including issues with illicit activities that have sparked community conversations about the park's future. In response, the City of Eugene has launched a renovation project aimed at reimagining the space to better serve everyone in the community.

Beginning in 2023, this renovation process has actively sought community input and will continue through 2024, with construction expected to kick off in 2026. The goal? Creating a refreshed Scobert Gardens that feels welcoming and functional for all who visit.