Bonesteele County Park

Location and History

Tucked between Salem and Aumsville along Aumsville Highway in Marion County, Oregon, Bonesteele County Park has an interesting past. What was once a commercial grass field is now transforming back to its natural state as an upland prairie ecosystem through the Natural Heritage Parks Program.

The park bears the name of the Bonesteele family, who made their mark on Oregon's history. Harry F. Bonesteele, the family patriarch, hailed from Rochester, New York, born on March 17.

Park Features

Spanning roughly 30 acres, this natural setting offers a beautiful blend of landscapes - about 10 acres of mature Oregon Oak and Douglas Fir forest alongside 20 acres of open grassland. The ongoing restoration efforts at Bonesteele aim to create a more biodiverse environment, enhance wildlife habitats, and provide both educational and recreational opportunities for locals.

Don't expect elaborate facilities here - the park intentionally keeps things simple with just a few picnic tables and basic restrooms. It's maintained primarily as a natural area rather than a developed recreation space, which adds to its peaceful charm.

Ecological Significance

One of the real treasures of Bonesteele Park is the chance to experience the upland prairie ecosystem - a landscape that once dominated the Willamette Valley but has become increasingly rare over time. This ecosystem acts as home to numerous plants and animals that have become scarce as these special habitats have disappeared.

The mix of open meadows and forest creates diverse habitats for local wildlife and birds. Depending on when you visit, you might catch wildflowers painting the meadows or witness the landscape's seasonal transformations.

Trails and Recreation

If you're looking for a bit more challenge than a flat stroll, the trails here deliver. They offer a true hiking experience with gradual climbs, descents into wooded areas along narrow paths, and uphill stretches that provide a surprisingly varied terrain to explore.

You can choose between a short 0.7-mile loop winding through the trees or take the longer perimeter trail that circles the entire park at just under a mile. Though not lengthy, these trails pack enough hills and diverse landscapes to make for a satisfying outdoor adventure close to the city.

Visitor Information

Bonesteele County Park has become a favorite spot for dog walkers, however you should keep your furry friends leashed and remember to clean up after them. The hilltop areas offer nice views of neighboring farms and fields - and if you time it right, you might see a beautiful sunrise or sunset.

You'll appreciate the park's quiet atmosphere, making it an ideal spot for reflection and connecting with nature just minutes from Salem. In winter, the hillside occasionally gets a dusting of snow, sometimes enough for a fun sledding adventure.