Orenco Woods Nature Park

Park Overview

Situated in Hillsboro, Oregon, Orenco Woods Nature Park spans a peaceful 42 acres of preserved natural landscape. Opened in February 2017, this green haven sits on what was once a nine-hole golf course in the Orenco neighborhood and is now jointly managed by the City of Hillsboro and Metro regional government.

Wandering through the park, you'll discover a beautiful mosaic of habitats - from open oak savanna to lush riparian forest along Rock Creek and serene upland forest areas. The landscape showcases native Pacific Northwest plants and wildflowers that transform the scenery with vibrant colors as the seasons change.

Location and Boundaries

The park is easy to find, with Cornelius Pass Road marking its eastern edge and the MAX Blue Line light rail tracks running along the northern boundary.

Recreational Opportunities

Orenco Woods is a perfect escape for those looking to reconnect with nature. A network of both paved and unpaved trails meanders through the park, including a portion of the regional Rock Creek Trail. Whether you prefer forest shade or sunny meadows, the gentle inclines make these paths accessible for most visitors.

One of the park's most charming features is its three bridges spanning Rock Creek, with the distinctive red bridge becoming something of a local landmark. Keep your eyes peeled while crossing - you might spot frogs, tadpoles, various birds, and if you're really lucky, a sleek black mink swimming in the creek waters.

The park thoughtfully balances recreational access with conservation efforts. Note that some trails through sensitive habitat areas are designated as no-dog and no-bicycle zones to protect the natural environment.

Historical Significance

There's rich history beneath your feet here. The land was once part of the Oregon Nursery Company property, and you can still see a historic house that belonged to Malcolm McDonald, one of the nursery's co-founders and town founder. Though the house isn't currently open to visitors, it stands as a reminder of the area's past.

The park's name itself tells a story, referencing both the Orenco neighborhood and the property's history as a wooded golf course. It exists thanks to community activism that successfully preserved this space as parkland rather than seeing it developed for housing.

Amenities

Beyond its natural beauty, Orenco Woods offers practical amenities that make visits comfortable. You can find two covered picnic shelters - one you can reserve ahead of time and another available first-come, first-served - meant for family gatherings or a peaceful lunch outdoors.

Kids will love the nature-based play area that takes a refreshing departure from traditional playground equipment. Instead of standard slides and swings, children can explore climbing structures, sand play areas, and interactive water features designed with natural materials that encourage sensory exploration.

Other conveniences include four clean family-friendly restrooms near the north parking lot entrance, open fields for recreation, and poo bag stations for dog walkers. There are two parking lots (north and south), but they tend to fill up quickly during peak times.

Orenco Woods connects to the larger Orenco trail system, making it a gateway to other parks and recreational spaces in the area. The park is wheelchair accessible with numerous paved pathways throughout.

The park welcomes visitors daily from 7:30AM to 7PM.