Friends of Laurelhurst Park

The historic Laurelhurst Neighborhood is located in Southeast Portland, Oregon, with approximately 1,800 residences. Within its boundaries sits Laurelhurst Park, a 32-acre crown jewel of the Portland parks system, featuring winding paths, Firwood Lake, play areas, broad meadows, and a wide variety of trees and plantings. The park is enjoyed not only by Laurelhurst neighbors and Portlanders, but also by visitors from throughout the metro area and beyond.

Emanuel Mische, Portland’s park superintendent from 1908 to 1914, designed Laurelhurst Park in 1912 using the experience he acquired as a longtime horticultural expert for the Olmsted Brothers landscape design firm. Guided by the firm’s natural approach to landscaping, Mische created seven distinct areas within the park: the concert grove, Firwood Lake, children’s lawn, plateau and broad meadows, picnic grove, and Rhododendron Hill.

Today, visitors come to Laurelhurst Park for concerts, special events, recreation, and quiet enjoyment of its natural beauty. The Friends of Laurelhurst Park volunteer group was established in 2003 to help advocate for, care for, and preserve this treasured public space. Working in partnership with Portland Parks & Recreation staff, the group organizes seasonal work parties focused on horticultural care, stewardship, and park beautification. Friends of Laurelhurst Park also serves as an important connection between the park and the broader community, helping ensure that Laurelhurst Park remains healthy, welcoming, and vibrant for generations to come.