Golden Gardens Park

Golden Gardens Park is a 223-acre public park located in the Bethel neighborhood of northwest Eugene, Oregon. The park features a unique landscape that includes artificial quarry ponds, which were originally created from gravel extraction for the construction of the Randy Papé Beltline Highway. These ponds now serve as habitats for various wildlife, including the threatened western pond turtle and native painted turtles.

The park's landscape is diverse, with areas of open fields, wetlands, and wooded sections. A mile-long soft surface walking path circles the ponds, providing visitors with opportunities for exercise and nature observation. The park's natural areas have been enhanced with native trees, shrubs, and grasses to improve wildlife habitat and create a more diverse ecosystem.

Golden Gardens Park is currently in a development phase, with plans to add various recreational facilities while maintaining a focus on habitat conservation. The City of Eugene has proposed a concept that includes sports fields, neighborhood park amenities, and protected natural areas. The development aims to balance the needs of the local community with broader recreational demands and environmental preservation.

The park serves as an important natural area in the Bethel neighborhood, offering residents and visitors a chance to experience nature within the city limits. It's a popular spot for bird watching, with various species of waterfowl and other birds frequently seen around the ponds. The park also provides educational opportunities, with interpretive signs offering information about the local ecosystem and wildlife.

As of now, much of the park remains undeveloped, with some areas being leased for grass cultivation. However, the City of Eugene is working on a master plan to guide the park's future development, which may include additional recreational facilities while preserving significant portions as natural habitat.