Hendricks Bridge Park

Hendricks Bridge is where Highway 126 crosses the McKenzie River just east of Springfield. Historically, this is where Caswell Hendricks operated his ferry across the river from 1862 to 1897, transporting livestock and goods using cables that were anchored between the north and south banks. It’s also the site of a large county park that is a popular spot for boaters launching on the McKenzie River, locals looking to cool off and find some fish, and day use visitors. This capacious park features plenty of shaded, open grass that make the place a great choice for group functions; individual picnic tables are available on a first-come, first-served basis.

The park is best known for its boat ramp, which is highly trafficked year round, and the fishing on this stretch can be quite good. An informal area has been constructed out of stones to demarcate a swimming and wading pool, though this tends to be quite shallow in summer when the days are warm enough to make the chilly McKenzie a tempting option. Still, this can be a good choice for families, and grabbing a picnic table for the day is easy. Volleyball and horseshoe pits are also available, and a picnic shelter can be reserved.

The park has restrooms and running water and is open year round from dawn to dusk.