Wilshire Park

Natural Features

At the center of Wilshire Park is a nature patch, completed in 2018, which includes flowering native plants to support pollinators, split-rail fencing, and a path with natural seating features. This area provides habitat for wildlife and offers opportunities for education and exploration.

The park is known for its mature trees, including Douglas firs, which create a sense of seclusion within the urban environment. These towering trees contribute to the park's peaceful atmosphere despite being surrounded by the city.

Recreation Options

A 0.6-mile loop trail circles the park, popular among walkers and runners seeking exercise in a natural setting. The park also contains open grassy areas suitable for picnics and casual recreation.

For families, Wilshire Park offers a playground with various equipment, though as of 2023, parts of the play structure were undergoing repairs and upgrades. Sports enthusiasts can make use of the park's baseball fields, while dog owners appreciate the off-leash area where pets can run freely.

History

Wilshire Park has a rich history, having narrowly escaped development as a campground in the 1920s and later as a housing development. The park's creation was largely due to community efforts in the 1930s, with local residents initially maintaining the space before its official acquisition by the city in 1940.

Today, this 14.4-acre public park serves as a valued green space in northeast Portland, offering a blend of natural beauty and recreational facilities for the Beaumont-Wilshire neighborhood and the broader community.