Refuge Park

Refuge Park is a city park located off of S Hillhurst Rd and S Great Blue Rd. The park surrounds the entrance to the River 'S' unit of the Ridgefield National Wildlife Refuge and has been the site of the Off Leash Dog Park since 2016. The City, with input from the community, City Council, and parks board, has finalized a high-level concept plan for the Refuge Park property which contains the Dog Park, trails and open areas.

Project Background

The Ridgefield Off Leash Dog Park was developed at Refuge Park in 2016. It was initially a temporary project, but has since been made permanent with improvements made in 2020 and 2021.

In the summer of 2021 the City collected public input on possible features for a larger park surrounding the existing dog park. Input was collected online through a survey, an ideas board, and map as well as in person at an engagement event hosted by the Parks Board at the park. This feedback was used to develop three Master Plan Concepts for the park.

In March, 2022 the City collected public input on the three Master Plan Concepts for the park and the Master Plan was finalized with Parks Board and City Council input. The plan calls for a phased approach starting with improvements of the of the dog park including an area for smaller dogs, benches, improved grading, ground cover, and fencing. Click here to view the concept plan document.

In April and May 2023 Phase 1 of the Master Plan, improvements to the dog park, was constructed. The project included the addition of a small dog area, improved drainage of the water fountain, gravel perimeter path, new trees and landscaping, and targeted grading and reseeding.

Project Status

Planned Project - This project is in the long term plan for Ridgefield, but is not currently in Active development. Staff are looking for funding opportunities including grants and donations to build the park in phases.

Over the next several years, staff will be looking at funding opportunities including grants and donations to keep building the park in phases. There is a strong desire to add a restroom, playground, pickleball court, and other accessible and community friendly amenities over time.

Community members wishing to support installment of amenities at Refuge Park are encouraged to learn more through the Clark County Parks Foundation. Sponsorship opportunities include:

• Picnic Table
• Lamp Post
• Bike Rack
• Water Fountain
• Trash/Recycling Bin

Plaques on these items may be in memory of a loved one or a positive message, no advertising permitted.