Westmoreland Park

A Slice of Portland History in Green

Found in southeast Portland's Westmoreland neighborhood, this 42-acre green space has been a community gathering spot since 1936. Westmoreland Park stretches along McLoughlin Boulevard, with the gentle flow of Crystal Springs Creek running through its heart, just downstream from the colorful Crystal Springs Rhododendron Garden.

From Concrete to Creek: An Eco Comeback Story

If you visited before 2014, you might barely recognize parts of Westmoreland today. The park underwent a remarkable transformation that year, focusing on bringing Crystal Springs Creek back to life. Gone are the concrete-lined banks, replaced with a meandering, natural waterway complete with logs, pools, and riffles - all designed to welcome native salmon back home.

The restoration team didn't stop there - they planted nearly 15,000 native species throughout the wetland and riparian areas. Their efforts have paid off beautifully. On any given day, you might spot great blue herons stalking the shallows, turtles sunning on logs, or even evidence of the occasional beaver visitor. It's become something of a wildlife sanctuary right in the middle of the city.

Before It Was a Park

Before becoming the green space we know today, this land wore many hats - from farmland to golf links and, believe it or not, a brief stint as Broomfield Field, a small airstrip. The City of Portland purchased the property in 1936, and architect Francis Benedict Jacobberger designed its original layout. The distinctive casting pond, still a centerpiece of the park today, was constructed during the Depression era by the Works Progress Administration.

Not Your Average Playground

Forget plastic slides and metal swings - Westmoreland's nature-based playground invites kids into a world of imagination and exploration. Part of the 2014 renovation, this play area features logs for climbing, boulders for scrambling, and a glorious sand area complete with a hand-pump water feature that lets kids create their own rivers and dams.

While it's especially fantastic for children 3 and older who love to climb and balance on the natural log structures, there's something here for kids of all ages. Parents appreciate how the design encourages open-ended play and connection with natural elements - a refreshing alternative to typical playground equipment.

Recreation for Everyone

Sports enthusiasts will find plenty to love here. The park features well-maintained baseball diamonds, soccer fields, tennis courts, and basketball courts. It's also home to the Portland Lawn Bowling Club green, where you might catch members practicing this precise and strategic game.

Planning a gathering? You'll discover picnic tables scattered across the park, many with barbecue facilities. For larger events, covered picnic shelters are available for reservation - excellent for family reunions or birthday celebrations.

A Wetland Oasis

The wetland areas of Westmoreland Park offer a peaceful retreat from city life. Wooden boardwalks guide you through these sensitive ecosystems, where you can observe native waterfowl, amphibians, and various mammals in their natural habitat.

Bring your binoculars - wildlife watching here is rewarding year-round. Beyond the resident great blue herons and diverse duck species, spring visitors might be treated to the sight of fuzzy goslings taking their first swims. With some luck, you might even spot river otters playing in Crystal Springs Creek.

One-of-a-Kind Features

The park's casting pond stands out as a unique Portland landmark. Though typically drained during winter months, in warmer seasons it hosts events like the quirky and beloved Royal Rosarian Milk Carton Boat Race.

Take a moment to appreciate the towering giant sequoia trees planted during the WPA era. These magnificent sentinels have watched over generations of Portlanders and provide welcome shade on hot summer days. Combined with the restored creek and wetlands, they create a tranquil setting that draws people for walking, relaxation, and a much-needed dose of nature in the city.