Medford Railroad Park: A Comprehensive Guide

The Medford Railroad Park is a sprawling, 122-acre park located in Medford, Oregon. It offers a unique blend of natural beauty, historical significance, and recreational opportunities.

History

The park was once home to the Southern Pacific Railroad's Medford Roundhouse and Shops, which played a vital role in the development of the city and the region. The roundhouse, built in 1927, was one of the largest in the West.

In the 1980s, the railroad yard was abandoned and the roundhouse fell into disrepair. However, in 1996, the city of Medford purchased the property and embarked on a major restoration project.

Features

Today, the Medford Railroad Park offers a wide range of amenities, including:

• Historic Roundhouse: The restored roundhouse is now home to the Southern Oregon Historical Society. It houses a collection of railroad artifacts and memorabilia, and hosts a variety of events throughout the year.
• Walking and Biking Trails: The park features over 5 miles of paved trails, perfect for walking, jogging, or biking. The trails wind through the park's diverse habitats, including wetlands, meadows, and forests.
• Fishing Pond: The park's 5-acre fishing pond is stocked with rainbow trout and is a popular spot for anglers of all ages.
• Picnic Areas: There are several picnic areas throughout the park, offering scenic views and grills for cooking.
• Playground: The park has a large playground with a variety of equipment suitable for children of all ages.
• Dog Park: The park includes a fenced-in dog park where dogs can run and play off-leash.

Benefits

The Medford Railroad Park offers numerous benefits to the community, including:

• Recreation: The park provides ample opportunities for outdoor recreation, including walking, biking, fishing, picnicking, and playing.
• History: The park preserves the region's railroad heritage and provides a glimpse into the past.
• Education: The Southern Oregon Historical Society offers educational programs and exhibits that teach visitors about the history of the railroad and the region.
• Economic Development: The park attracts visitors and helps to support local businesses.

Pros and Cons

As with any park, there are both pros and cons to consider:

Pros:
- Extensive amenities and activities
- Historical significance
- Beautiful natural setting
- Convenient location

Cons:
- Can be crowded during peak season
- Limited parking
- Some areas of the park are not well-maintained

Call to Action

The Medford Railroad Park is a valuable asset to the community. It offers a unique combination of history, recreation, and education. Whether you're a local resident or a visitor, be sure to take advantage of all the park has to offer.

Additional Information

Hours of Operation:
- Daily, 6:00 AM to 10:00 PM

Admission:
- Free

Location:
- 900 Railroad Park Dr, Medford, OR 97501

Contact Information:
- City of Medford Parks and Recreation
- (541) 774-2400

Tables

Table 1: Park Amenities

Table 2: Educational Programs

Table 3: Visitor Statistics