Wes Bennett Park

Neighborhood Favorite

Situated in southeast Salem, Wes Bennett Park spans a modest 4.43 acres but packs a surprising punch for its size. Just a short walk from Pringle Creek Elementary School, this clean, well-maintained space has become a daily gathering spot for locals seeking a breath of fresh air and a moment of recreation.

Layout and Features

The park rolls out across gently sloping terrain with lush green grass and convenient cement paths winding throughout. Despite not being huge, the thoughtful design makes great use of the available space, balancing open areas with dedicated activity zones.

One of the smartest features here is the dual playground setup - a smaller area with age-appropriate equipment for the little ones and a separate section where older kids can challenge themselves without overwhelming younger visitors. Parents will appreciate the open sightlines that make keeping an eye on energetic youngsters much less stressful.

Recreation Opportunities

No matter if you're looking to get your steps in or burn off some competitive energy, the park offers several options. The paved paths welcome walkers and joggers of all levels, while the half-court basketball area offers a smooth surface for shooting hoops or playing quick pickup games.

Come summer, the splash pad becomes the park's main attraction. Kids love activating the push-button water fountains, creating a refreshing escape from Oregon's warm summer days. The park's connection to nearby school grounds effectively extends the space, giving you more room to roam.

Amenities

When hunger strikes, you'll discover several picnic tables scattered throughout, plus plenty of grassy spots great for spreading out a blanket for an impromptu picnic. The park doesn't have permanent restrooms, but there's typically a portable toilet available when nature calls.

Dog owners frequently stroll the paths with their four-legged friends, and convenient waste bag stations help keep the grounds clean. Just remember that this isn't a designated dog park - your pup needs to stay leashed during your visit.

Visitor Information

Parking can be a bit tricky, with limited street spaces directly in front of the park. During busy times, you might need to scout the surrounding streets or use the school parking area when it's available.

The park welcomes visitors daily from 5AM to 10PM, providing a safe environment for families throughout the day. With its mix of play structures, splash pad, basketball court, and open green space, there's something here for almost everyone.

Community Legacy

Though Wes Bennett didn't live to see his namesake park come to life, the space has become a popular recreational spot for the Southeast Mill Creek neighborhood, where residents of all ages come to enjoy the outdoors.