Hidden Creek Park West

A Park for Everyone

Situated in Hillsboro, Oregon, Hidden Creek Park West is an 11-acre retreat that opened in August 2023. The park is designed with everyone in mind - regardless of age or ability. The entire playground is fully fenced with just one gate, so parents can breathe a little easier while the kids explore.

Meet "Oro": The Gentle Forest Giant

At the heart of the park lies "Oro" - a massive 50-foot cedar structure shaped like a friendly forest giant. The name, chosen by locals, means "gold" in Spanish (a nod to "HillsbORO"). This gentle giant rests on the forest floor with an outstretched hand, creating a unique play structure.

Oro isn't just a pretty sight - it's an adventure waiting to happen. Kids can climb through, around, and on top of the structure, finding their own paths and challenges along the way. While some climbing spots reach higher than others, the design encourages children to push their boundaries in a relatively protected setting. Kids can navigate their way across the giant's body in creative ways.

Playground That Goes Beyond the Basics

The playground goes beyond a typical swings-and-slides setup (though those are available). You'll find a water and sand play area designed like a miniature creek bed - well-suited for little ones who love sensory exploration. The synthetic turf throughout keeps things clean and accessible for everyone.

Look around and you'll spot various swing types, slides, spinning structures, and climbing features scattered throughout. The accessible merry-go-rounds are particularly thoughtful, designed so children of all abilities, including those using wheelchairs, can join in the fun.

The park embraces a "woods gone wild" theme with natural play elements and native plantings. And when the sun gets intense, there are plenty of shaded spots to cool down.

Beyond the Playground

Need a break from playing? Hidden Creek Park West offers plenty of other options. Take a stroll along the looping pathways, get your heart rate up at the fitness area, or simply relax in the hammock grove.

The games area is a unique touch, featuring permanent installations for table tennis, foosball, and cornhole - just remember to bring your own equipment.

You'll come across clean family restrooms with changing tables near the playground (note that they might be closed during winter, with portable toilets available instead). Water fountains and a water bottle filling station keep everyone hydrated during play sessions.

When it's time to refuel, choose from multiple picnic areas complete with tables and benches - including some swinging benches where you can gently rock while keeping an eye on the kids. Planning a family gathering? Check out the covered BBQ areas.

The park features climate-adapting landscaping and native restoration plants that contribute to environmental sustainability.

Built for Everyone, Safely

Accessibility isn't an afterthought here - it's woven into every aspect of the park. Smooth pathways, inclusive equipment, and thoughtfully designed spaces welcome visitors of all abilities.

The single entrance/exit gate to the playground helps you keep track of little explorers, which is especially helpful in such a spacious area.

Dog owners, your furry friends are welcome in the open areas and along walking paths, but not inside the fenced playground - a rule that helps keep play spaces clean and safe for everyone.

A Community Effort

Hidden Creek Park West was created through collaboration between community members and design professionals. You'll even find educational elements like an ASL learning board, encouraging kids to communicate inclusively while they play.