Our Mission
To preserve and protect the environment, recreational, educational and cultural experiences provided at Mildred Kanipe Memorial Park through volunteer services, fund raising and civil advocation.
Mildred’s Gift
Mildred's house - Originally built pre-1900
In 1983, Mildred Kanipe, a colorful woman 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
Trail through one of the park's beautiful forests
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 the people.
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 paint and a new foundation. Next are windows, floors and roof. 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.
Male peacock displaying his colors
What we do
Work Party building the Nature Trail
- The Friends provide volunteer services to restore, improve, maintain, and protect the land, plants and animals, the historic structures and improvements present in the park.
- We raise funds for the purpose of providing monetary assistance to help with related costs.
- We are civil advocates raising community awareness and appreciation for maintaining these lands so that they can be enjoyed by the people.
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
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