Hendricks Bridge is where Highway 126 crosses the McKenzie River just east of Springfield. Historically, this is where Caswell Hendricks operated his ferry across the river from 1862 to 1897, transporting livestock and goods using cables that were anchored between the north and south banks. It’s also the site of a large county park that is a popular spot for boaters launching on the McKenzie River, locals looking to cool off and find some fish, and day use visitors. This capacious park features plenty of shaded, open grass that make the place a great choice for group functions; individual picnic tables are available on a first-come, first-served basis. The park is best known for its boat ramp, which is highly trafficked year round, and the fishing on this stretch can be quite good. An informal area has been constructed out of stones to demarcate a swimming and wading pool, though this tends to be quite shallow in summer when the days are warm enough to make the chilly McKenzie a tempting option. Still, this can be a good choice for families, and grabbing a picnic table for the day is easy. Volleyball and horseshoe pits are also available, and a picnic shelter can be reserved. The park has restrooms and running water and is open year round from dawn to dusk.

Located on Summit Avenue, Hendricks Park is an 80-acre municipal park close to the University of Oregon. It is the oldest park in the city and is famous for its native plant garden as well as its 12-acre rhododendron garden. A forest with 200-year-old Douglas fir trees features many paths and trails for birders and hikers, all within the boundaries of the city of Eugene. In addition to the trees and rhododendrons, other plants in the park include ferns, irises, trilliums, wildflowers, and many more. The Francis M. Wilkins Shelter was built in 1938 to honor one of the park’s founders. The shelter can be rented for events.

The 80 acre Hendricks Park is also the oldest city park in the city of Eugene. The park is very popular amongst bird-watchers, joggers and hikers for its wonderful trails. For casual visitors, the park has an exciting treat in store as it has a world-renowned rhododendron garden in the premises. Also present in the park are 200-year old Douglas fir trees, ferns and flower species like trilliums and irises. One can easily spend hours walking in the park, and admire all the tranquil beauty.