Monteith Riverpark — Attraction in Albany

Definitely has some issues. Trash a lot of places. Homeless seem to always be taking over the covered areas. Trails can be a little sketch if your by yourself. The city needs to spend a little more effort and time doing some research and fixing some major issues to make this park better. The kids play area isn’t bad. Plenty for the kids to play on and they seem to love it. Can always feed the ducks and walk a lot which makes for some nice exercise. Overall it’s not my park of choice. But it’s not the worst.

Update as of September 2025:

I used to enjoy coming to this park, but sadly it’s gone downhill — even after the city spent millions on recent renovations. Yes, the new structures and splash pad are nice in theory, but the reality is disappointing. The splash pad is surprisingly small for a city of 60,000 people, especially given its downtown location and the amount of money spent.

More importantly, the same core problems still exist — transients and homeless individuals are constantly in the park, often leaving behind trash, needles, and drug paraphernalia. We’ve had multiple experiences where people were yelling, cussing, or even threatening my wife and kids, which makes it feel anything but family-friendly. That’s unacceptable in a space meant for children and families.

The city also removed the awesome bridge that once connected this park to Bryant Park, which used to be a great way to enjoy the river and walk the loop. Honestly, I’m not surprised given how poorly things are managed in Albany — but I am disappointed. They had a real chance to make this park something special again, and instead, it somehow feels less safe and less usable...

This is a major city park that is part of the boarders between historic downtown and the Willamette River. Pros: The park is a decent size. It is well maintained. It has some covered eating areas, a few built in spots for people to grill food. The paths are cement, wide and easy to navigate. It has a small walking pier to the Willamette river. There is a small permanent stage where free concerts are available in the summer. They have a playground area for kids. The main walking path is the beginning of the Dave Clark Trail. You can walk down to where the Calapooia River meets the Willamette River. Note:Don't try to swim there! The water is swifter than it looks and there have been many drowings. There are places along the Calapooia, which boarders the park where it is safe to swim. The park entrance is also the entrance to the local senior center and the city carousel is next door to the park. Cons: Although the parking lot is fine for regular daytime visits, it is highly inadequate for events. The playground structure is safe but small and limited. The playground is also by the railroad tracks and young children should be well supervised as various trains are common place in this city. The permanent structured bathrooms are only open from late spring through early fall and the exact dates for this are not easy to find out. If you are uncomfortable being around those who are homeless, some of whom are definitely addicts, be aware that the park's amenities once attracted a good number of these poor souls. Recent city changes have more than significantly reduced the numbers but there is the possibility of spotting or...

The new park is great, unfortunately the homeless are taking it over. Today a lady was bathing in the splash pad as kids tried to play. She was cursing out loud and got into it with a mom. Homeless guy with a giant axe was going in and out of the bathrooms. Homeless lady was yelling because there was no soap in the bathroom. Homeless were laying around the grass right near the new splash pad. This all happened in one hour (7-8 pm). I told my wife she’s not taking the kids there if she’s alone. Period. It’s a shame. The kids love the new playground. I hope APD pays attention to the on-line report I’m filing tonight (7-26-24). A patrol car passing by to make sure the homeless know it’s not their new hang out spot would...