Hidden Creek Park West, the newest addition to Hillsboro’s parks, is an absolute gem!
Thanks to the unwavering dedication of the City of Hillsboro Parks & Recreation Department and the generosity of local families, companies, and nonprofits, this park has become a shining example of play equity.
Hidden Creek Park West features specialized equipment and safety components:
- inclusive play elements
- stable surfacing areas
- generously sized all-gender restrooms
- Six accessible parking spaces
- and, not to miss, a 50-foot-long friendly forest giant made of cedar
- water play
- looping pathways
- exercise equipment
- swinging benches
- shade structures
- a hammock grove
- game areas
- a mural
- Table Tennis (Ping-Pong)
- Obstacle Course
- Cornhole (how to play Cornhole)
Community Support
We had the pleasure of visiting Hidden Creek Park West, a fully inclusive park and playground funded in part by over $500,000 in private donations. It’s heartwarming to see how the Hillsboro community has come together to create a space where “Hillsboro Plays Together.”
All-Inclusive Park That’s Cool
While all parks in Hillsboro meet the requirements of the Americans with Disabilities Act, Hidden Creek Park West goes above and beyond to break down barriers to play. It recognizes that true inclusion means removing any obstacles that may prevent children with cognitive, emotional, sensory, or physical disabilities from fully engaging with play elements.
The new inclusive playground at Hidden Creek Park West is not just ADA-compliant; it’s a haven for creativity and interaction. Designed by a renowned inclusive play expert, this playground promises to be an elegant and practical space that caters to children of all abilities.
Park Address: 225 NE 53rd Avenue
More Than a Playground
What makes this park truly exceptional is the commitment to inclusivity. It features accessible surfacing, fencing, restrooms, parking spaces, and even additional shade structures, ensuring that everyone can enjoy the park to the fullest.
Serving “2,800 Local Children Who Experience Disabilities”
Hidden Creek Park West owes its existence to the incredible support of private donors, ranging from individuals who contributed $50 to organizations that generously donated $250,000. Their generosity has made it possible to serve more than 2,800 local children who experience disabilities, making this park a symbol of unity within the Hillsboro community.
Meet Oro (means “gold” in Spanish)
As you explore Hidden Creek Park West, you’ll be delighted by its many features, including inclusive play elements, stable surfacing areas, all-gender restrooms, ample accessible parking spaces, and the charming 50-foot-long cedar giant known as “Oro,” named by the community, which means “gold” in Spanish. Oro is not just a playmate but a symbol of the park’s golden commitment to inclusivity.
But that’s not all – this park offers so much more, from water play areas and looping pathways to exercise equipment, swinging benches, shade structures, a hammock grove, and game areas. Plus, there’s a vibrant mural that adds a touch of artistry to the park’s landscape. While game equipment isn’t provided, Hillsboro’s Library of Things offers items for those looking to relax and have some fun in this stunning setting.
As a testament to its commitment to the environment, Hidden Creek Park West also features over 200 newly planted trees and native shrubs, adding to the natural beauty of the area.
In summary, Hidden Creek Park West is a triumph of inclusivity and community spirit. It sets a shining example of what can be achieved when a community comes together to create a space where everyone can play, explore, and enjoy the outdoors. We wholeheartedly recommend a visit to this extraordinary park – it’s a true testament to the heart and soul of Hillsboro.
Watch Your Children
I know that goes without saying, but seriously, watch your children. This place is awesome, however, there are several climbing walls, tunnels, ladders, and entryways where someone could get hurt and ruin it for the rest of us with a 100% preventable injury.
Notice in the gallery below how my son seems to be alone in the 1st image, however, as you pan out you see children above him who could drop down at any second as he enters/exits the structure. Watch your children, especially if they are climbing.
Please watch your children and do not let them climb up too high if they are not ready. My son is 4 years old and fearless, but he wasn’t down for the descent part if you know what I mean. Up is not a problem, climbing down is the only worry so I climbed up to guide him down step by step because he was over the wooden section. The turf is super soft, but there are climbing sections over wood/entrances, just be mindful of that. Anyway, be safe and have fun.
Drain Issue
There was a weird smell (sewer/drain) near the playground entrance. Hopefully, that will be resolved soon because it looked like a drain issue near the sandlot section.
Federal Grant
In addition to donations and private funding, Hillsboro Parks & Recreation received a $3 million federal grant to support the development of Hidden Creek Park West All-Inclusive Playground. That said, get out and enjoy this investment if you’re in the area.
Google Maps
Google Maps is taking people to the front of the Community Center, and the playground is in the back along with additional parking. We recommend that you do not park in the main community center entrance, and we recommend that you drive to the back parking lot. We wish we had, it’s not a short walk once you’re done playing.
Park Address: 225 NE 53rd Avenue
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Sources:
https://www.hillsboro-oregon.gov/Home/Components/News/News/14889/4300
https://www.hillsboro-oregon.gov/Home/Components/News/News/14117
