Avery Park, nestled next to downtown Corvallis, is a well-developed city park offering a variety of attractions and activities. Encompassed partially by the serene Marys River, this natural area provides a perfect retreat for picnicking, swimming, hiking, running, and more.

Avery Park Rose Garden & Other Attractions

During the summer, Avery Park comes alive with vibrant colors and activities. The Marys River warms up, creating a refreshing spot for a swim, while multiple shaded areas invite visitors to relax and enjoy a picnic with loved ones.

The park's beautiful rose garden, home to over 250 types of roses blooming from May to October, is a highlight. June is the best time to visit, as the roses are in full bloom, filling the area with vivid colors and enchanting scents.

Rhododendron Garden is another colorful area of the park, offering a beautiful and vibrant display for visitors to enjoy.

The park also boasts two unique attractions: a historic Georgia Pacific Locomotive and a set of dinosaur bones. The locomotive, a gift from the Georgia Pacific company, is a piece of history open to the public. The dinosaur bones, though not real, are an art project created by OSU students in the late 70s. Designed as a playground for kids, this quirky attraction draws families with its distinctive style.

Avery Park's green lawns provide ample space for various fun activities, including softball, croquet, volleyball, horseshoe, and more. The park office offers equipment rentals for these sports, and the natural area even hosts a regional horseshoe tournament annually.

For a tranquil picnic, Avery Park is an ideal destination. You can enjoy a meal on the lush lawns or at one of the many picnic tables scattered throughout the area. Additionally, the park features five picnic shelters available for reservation, perfect for events or parties. The Lions, Thompson, Fire Side, Townsend, and Maple Grove shelters are equipped with barbecues, potable water, electric outlets, and picnic tables.

Avery Park Swimming and Other Water Sports

Summer is the best time to enjoy the park. The Marys River warms up nicely, providing a refreshing spot for a swim. The slow current makes it perfect for the entire family to swim and play in the water.

It’s also ideal for other water activities like tubing, paddle boarding, and canoeing. Multiple shaded spots invite you to sit and enjoy a picnic with loved ones, while beautiful flowers impress with their bright colors.

Avery Park Hiking

The park has multiple pathways for hikers, bike riders, and runners.

The Avery Park Loop, a 1.3-mile (2.1 km) easy trail, leads you around the natural area and along the Marys River, offering a scenic and enjoyable route.

Open: Year-round
Managed by: City of Corvallis

Amenities: Restrooms, picnic tables, playground, BBQ grills, drinking water, horseshoe pits and volleyball nets
Activities: Swimming, paddle boarding, tubing, biking, hiking, volleyball, horseshoeing and picnicking

Distance from the parking: Short
Road access: Any passenger vehicle
Day-use fees: None

Elevation: 200 ft (61 m)

Avery County Park is located: