Turner Creek Park

Park Overview

Set in the heart of Hillsboro, Oregon, Turner Creek Park spans a surprisingly roomy 12.5 acres. Don't let the modest entrance fool you - this park, established around 1990, unfolds between Tualatin Valley Highway and Main Street near southwest 32nd Avenue, offering far more depth and variety than first meets the eye.

Landscape Features

The park's landscape is a delightful mix of the wild and the manicured. On the western side, a small canyon invites exploration via paved and wood chip trails that lead down to a boardwalk and bridge crossing Turner Creek.

About four acres of the park embrace the creek, which meanders through in a deliberately winding path, creating peaceful ponds and little islands along the way. The 0.25-mile walking path near the water is especially worth your time - when you reach the bottom of the trail, the views of the creek and pond are genuinely beautiful.

Recreational Facilities

Whether you're feeling competitive or just want to play, Turner Creek offers several options. Tennis enthusiasts will appreciate the tennis courts complete with practice walls, while team sports fans can enjoy the baseball/softball fields, soccer field, and basketball court.

Kids will love the compact but well-designed playground featuring various swings (including baby-friendly options and a fun multi-person swing). There's even a little scavenger hunt hidden within the play equipment - a sweet surprise for observant youngsters.

For those looking to work up a sweat, the park's workout area offers pull-up bars, dip bars, and sit-up equipment. And if casual games are more your style, there's a designated cornhole spot waiting for you.

Picnic and Rest Areas

Around the park, you'll find plenty of picnic tables and benches, with some tucked away in shady spots. While none are covered, they provide comfortable places to enjoy anything from a quick snack to a full family meal while soaking in the natural surroundings.

Wildlife and Flora

The park's natural areas are thoughtfully maintained, creating homes for local wildlife. Keep your eyes open for great blue herons wading in the water, along with garter snakes, gulls, frogs, fish, and a variety of birds going about their day.

Plant lovers can spot purple iris, sedges, nodding beggar-tick, knotweed, jewelweed, and Veronica throughout the seasons, adding splashes of color and texture to the landscape.

Park Development

Turner Creek Park has evolved nicely over the years. In the early 1990s, nearly 100 trees were donated by a local nursery and Portland General Electric, with community volunteers stepping up to plant them.

Between 1993 and 1994, the parks department collaborated with civic groups to enhance the natural areas - streamlining trails, adding new plantings, and installing birdhouses. A wildflower garden joined the mix in 1997, adding even more natural beauty.

Amenities and Accessibility

You'll discover portable restroom facilities for when nature calls. The park welcomes four-legged friends, with waste bags provided, however you'll need to keep your dog leashed at all times. One thing to note: parking can be tight, especially during busy times, so you might want to plan accordingly.

Community Value

Turner Creek Park truly is a neighborhood sanctuary, blending active recreation with peaceful natural spaces. The thoughtful layout means families can multitask - watch one child's softball practice while another explores the playground. It's particularly beloved by families with young children and dog walkers looking for a calm, green retreat in the midst of suburban Hillsboro.