Woodmansee Park

Natural Beauty Spot

Found in Salem, this 7-acre urban retreat offers something for everyone. Walking through Woodmansee Park, you'll find yourself on a mix of soft and hard trails that meander through mature trees and open meadows - well-suited for your morning jog or an afternoon wander.

The park's peaceful small creek adds a touch of tranquility to your visit, with two foot bridges helping create a nice loop trail around the grounds. We love how they've placed several creekside picnic tables where you can sit and enjoy lunch while listening to the gentle sound of water flowing by.

Nature enthusiasts will appreciate the variety of native plants thriving here, including Low Oregon Grape, Tall Oregon Grape, Sweet Cherry, and Camas. If you're visiting in summer, keep an eye out for wild blackberries growing in the wooded sections - a sweet natural treat in this urban oasis.

Get Active

If you're looking to break a sweat, Woodmansee offers several options. There's a full-size soccer field that's meant for organized games or just kicking a ball around with friends.

Disc golf fans will find a 18-hole disc golf course using 9 baskets. The course offers a nice balance of open long shots and technical wooded challenges, making it interesting whether you're just starting out or have been playing for years.

The recently resurfaced tennis courts now include five pickleball courts as well, catering to the growing popularity of this sport. You'll also find a multi-purpose court for basketball and a wall ball court if you're looking to mix up your activities.

Family-Friendly Features

Kids will make a beeline for the playground area, which has equipment suitable for various ages. One standout feature is the nostalgic merry-go-round - one of the few remaining in Salem and sure to bring back childhood memories for the parents watching.

Planning a gathering? The park offers a reservable covered shelter complete with a working sink and power outlets. There are plenty of picnic tables scattered across the grounds, both open-air and covered, with built-in BBQs ready for your cookout needs.

Practical Information

When nature calls, you'll discover two spacious unisex restrooms with locking doors near the playground and courts. Note that these facilities may have seasonal hours, so plan accordingly.

Bringing your four-legged friend? Woodmansee Park is dog-friendly, but you'll need to keep your pup leashed. The combination of open fields and varied trails makes for excellent dog-walking territory, and you'll discover waste bags and trash cans around the park.

There are two parking lots available, with the back lot typically being less busy if you prefer a quieter entry point. The blend of wooded areas and open spaces creates a refreshing escape with multiple recreational options in a natural setting right in the city.