Wildflower Park came as two-for-one special on our journeys today. We had pulled Foxborough Park out of the jar, and took a long way home to swing by Wildflower Park while we were out. This was partly because we left Foxborough Park early, because we weren’t feeling it. Wildflower Park is in the middle of the one of the new subdivisions off of Brookswood Ave.
Wildflower Park has two play structures for younger and older children. There is one bench facing each structure. There are two regular swings and two infant swings. There are also a climbing wall. Our son enjoyed much of both of the structures. The smaller structure has some fencing around it, making it easier to keep track of little runners. It is does fully emcompass the play area, so helicopter parents will still need to hover.
There is a large picnic shelter looks amazing. It only has two picnic tables underneath. The Park and Rec website says the shelter has a capacity of 18 people. I would say with those two benches, it would be more 10-12 comfortably. I also noticed there was not water fountain or bathroom facility. When we first arrived I was thinking perfect birthday park, but once we walked around I realized it doesn’t have some of the basic amenities you would need for a birthday party.
There is a doggie station.
There is also a sign that points you in the direction of the river trail. I find this sign deceiving, because the park itself is not on the river trail. It is just close to an entrance to the famed Deschutes River Trail. The Park website says it has pedestrian connections to River Rim Park, Hollygrape Park, River canyon Natural Area, Elk Meadow Elementary School as well.
My husband wanted a good picture of the Dinosaur
Wildflower Park is excellent at first glance. The play structures are varied and fun. There is plenty of grass to run in. The picnic shelter looks amazingly, like a cabin out in the woods. There are some pangs of disappointment when you get closer and start looking at it with a skeptical eye. Among the many small things missing from this park, I also wish there were was more seating around the play structure.
There are no safety concerns. The park is far enough from the roads. As always, the grounds are in excellent condition. There is only street parking for this park , which would make it a headache on busy days.
Ratings:
(A scale of 1 to 5 where 1 is the least desirable and 5 is the most desirable)
Size: 5
Condition: 5
Amenities: 3.5
Safety: 5
Fun: 5
Overall Score: 4
Wildflower Park is beautiful from far away. But when you get close you see some blemishes. There is a picnic structure, but only with two picnic tables and no bathroom or water fountain. Some of the play structure is partially fenced, though not enough to make it easier for parents. This park has pedestrian connections to other close parks and the river trail, which would make it a pit stop on a walking tour. The park itself does not have enough walking trails to be worth it. This park is high on looks, but low on amenities.
Bend Family Park Tour 