Help support our state parks
State park spotlight: Sarah Helmick State Recreation Site
Discover the charm of Oregon’s first state park. Plan a visit and experience the natural beauty that’s waiting for all Oregonians.
Nestled along the Luckiamute River, Sarah Helmick State Recreation Site holds the distinction of being Oregon’s first state park, established in 1922. Located six miles south of Monmouth off Highway 99W, the park spans about 35 acres and offers a tranquil retreat amid the lush Willamette Valley. This land was gifted to the state through multiple donations, beginning with Sarah Helmick and her son in the early 20th century, and later expanded with parcels tied to Camp Adair’s WWII history.
Ecological importance
As part of the Willamette Valley ecoregion, the park boasts a diverse range of habitats, including riparian zones along the river. These areas support an array of native plant species like bigleaf maples and Oregon white oaks, which provide essential cover and resources for wildlife. This ecosystem is critical for species such as Western pond turtles and red-legged frogs, both recognized by the Oregon Department of Fish and Wildlife as species of concern. Bird enthusiasts might spot acorn woodpeckers, red-tailed hawks, or even the elusive marbled murrelet in surrounding areas.
Recreational opportunities
While modest in size, Sarah Helmick offers activities that cater to various interests. Two group picnic areas, shaded by the towering trees, accommodate up to 150 people each, making it a popular spot for gatherings. Its proximity to the Luckiamute River invites visitors to explore the area’s natural beauty through leisurely walks or birdwatching. The serene environment is perfect for those seeking a quiet escape.
A legacy worth preserving
Beyond its recreational value, the park stands as a tribute to the Helmick family’s pioneering spirit and their vision of preserving natural spaces for public enjoyment. Today, it also highlights the importance of conserving habitats vital to the Willamette Valley’s unique biodiversity. With proper stewardship, this historic site will continue to provide refuge for wildlife and a serene getaway for visitors for generations to come.
If you take some time to visit Sarah Helmick State Recreation Site, or have in the past, please share your stories and photos with us to help with our work to educate more Oregonians about the wonders of our state parks.
You can help support Oregon State Parks
Sarah Helmick State Recreation Site is a testament to the power of conservation and public generosity, offering Oregonians a peaceful retreat while safeguarding vital habitats. But to ensure the long-term health and accessibility of not only this park but all of Oregon’s state parks, we need greater legislative support. By advocating for robust funding and policies that eliminate financial barriers, we can make our parks more accessible to all and better equipped to protect Oregon’s natural heritage.
Help support our state parks
Support our parks: Secure robust and reliable funding for the well-being of all Oregonians.
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Authors
Justin Boyles
Conservation Advocate, Environment Oregon Research & Policy Center
As the Conservation Advocate for Environment Oregon, Justin runs our campaign to protect and restore Oregon’s special places and the myriad wildlife that call them home. Justin has worked on campaigns to protect the Roadless Area Conservation Rule, clean up superfund sites along the Willamette River and promote solar energy in Oregon. In recent years, he was part of the Public Interest Network’s Creative and Editorial team where he developed campaign logos and materials connected to dozens of campaigns, turned deep-dive research into digestible interactive features for our websites, and created myriad tools for campaigns to help win real results for the environment and the public interest. Justin lives in Portland with his children where they regularly explore the diversity that Oregon’s environment has to offer: From the coast to the high desert and the many amazing rivers, lakes, forests and mountains in between.
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