The Park is open year-round, however the campground closes for the winter. Reservations can be made at Douglas County Website.
Follow the Friends of Mildred Kanipe Memorial Park facebook page, then 'like' us and you'll know about all the fun happening at your beautiful park where you can camp, picnic, ride horses, hike, watch birds, see native wildflowers and experience Mildred's love of her land.
See our 2023 newsletters >>
Published irregularily, our free newsletter keeps you up-to-date on happenings at the park. If you would like it delivered to your INbox as soon as it is published, send your email address to kanipe@yahoo.com.
Watch our video! Mildred Kanipe Video >>
Get a glimpse of the beautiful park and learn a little about Mildred. Please feel free to share as this is a great way to 'advertise' our wonderful park!
Purchase a
Friends of Mildred Kanipe Mug!
They can be found locally at Central Feed and Books Gallery in Sutherlin, and Triple Oak Wine Vault and Riley's Ice House Emporium in Oakland.
Mildred's house - Originally built pre-1900
Our Mission
The mission of this organization shall be to provide volunteer services for the purpose of restoring, improving, maintaining and protecting the natural resources of the park such as land, plants and animals, the historic structures present in the park and other park improvements such as fences, restrooms, picnic areas, etc. for the purpose of providing recreational, educational and cultural experiences for the public, in accordance with the conditions of Mildred Kanipe’s Will and to raise funds to cover as much as possible of the related costs.
Mildred’s Gift
In 1983, Mildred Kanipe, a colorful farmer passed away, and left her beloved ranch to the public as a county park. Mildred’s gift included almost 1,100 acres of land consisting of pastures, creeks, rolling hills, orchards and forests. Historical structures include a turn-of-the-century schoolhouse, a farmhouse, and outbuildings. She wished the buildings to be preserved, a ranch museum developed, equestrian trails to be available and the land was to remain an animal refuge, the land and plants preserved.
The Friends’ Origins
In 2005, due to the financial burden, the Douglas County Commissioners were considering returning the park to the Mildred Kanipe Trust. People organized to help the park remain in the public domain and open to the people, and, The Friends of Mildred Kanipe Memorial Park Association, Inc. (501 c 3, nonprofit tax exempt) was created. We are committed to keep the park as public land for the enjoyment of visiters.
Trail through one of the park's beautiful forests
Our Community’s Treasure
Today the park has much to offer a visitor -- Extensive trails pass thru majestic forests, oak woodlands, lush pastures, over creeks and offers spectacular views. The trails are open to horses March 16th through October 31st, and year-round for hikers. A pavilion next to equestrian parking offers a place to sit, eat or chat.
- Mildred’s home, sheep barn, horse barn and buggy shed still stand. Due to lack of monies, sorely needed renovations have not occurred, but the structures are just as interesting in their deteriorating condition. Some of Mildred’s old farm machinery is on display. Mildred is buried next to her home.
- A picnic area under shady trees is enjoyed in the Farmstead area. Colorful peacocks cry out among the trees.
- A relaxing and enjoyable nature trail has been designed and constructed by Friends of the Umpqua Hiking Club and the Douglas Soil & Water Conservation District. Native plants, many provided by Native Plant Society, are being planted.
- The old schoolhouse has received new foundation, paint, windows and a new roof. Next is refurbishing interior. Educational events are planned for the future.
- Special events, such as organized equestrian rides, weddings, family reunions and festivities occur regularly.
- The land is leased for cattle which roam most of the acres in the park. This lease is a major source of income for the park.
What we do
Male peacock displaying his colors
Work Party building the Nature Trail
- The Friends provide volunteer services to restore, improve, maintain, and protect the land, plants and animals, and historic structures.
- We raise funds to help Douglas County with the park's expenses.
- We advocate for heightened community awareness and appreciation for the unique nature of the park's lands and structures.
We Can Use Your Help
We are supported by those who cherish Mildred’s land. Join The Friends or get involved and see how you can contribute to the park or become a volunteer.
Find the Park
Mildred Kanipe Memorial Park is located 8 miles northeast of Oakland, Oregon at 16513 Elkhead Road. Click here for map.
Together we help care for Mildred’s Land
Tyee Outdoor Experience
Douglas County Historical Society
Oregon Cultural Trust
Douglas County Parks
Oregon Equestrian Trails
Friends of the Umpqua Hiking Group
Douglas Soil and Water Conservation District
Native Plant Society of Oregon
Historic Oakland
Roseburg Road Runners
Douglas County Cultural Coalition
Oregon Dressage Society
Bureau of Land Management
United States Fish and Wildlife Service
Douglas Forest Protective Association
Wolf Creek Job Corps
Yoncalla High School
Wildlife Safari
American Bird Conservatory
Oakland Elementary and Middle School
The Northwest Youth Corps
Eagle Scouts
Douglas County Public Works