Fort Rock
Park
Location: Sunriver, OR
Project Partners
TBD
Slated for 2028 completion, SZABO Landscape Architecture is working with the Sunriver Homeowners Association to reimagine the community’s Fort Rock Park as Sunriver’s signature community destination, aligning its amenities with how residents and visitors use the space today. As the largest and most centrally located park in the system, it carries the responsibility of hosting everyday recreation, special events, and regional‑scale play experiences, yet many of its facilities had become outdated, underutilized, or difficult to maintain. The master plan establishes a clear roadmap for renewing aging infrastructure, such as restrooms, the pavilion, and older courts, while strategically expanding amenities like picnic areas and rest stops so the park feels more welcoming and functional for a wide range of users.
A centerpiece of the effort is the complete transformation of the playground area, which previously relied on dated equipment, inaccessible layouts, and pea gravel surfacing that no longer met safety standards. The new concept treats the playground as an iconic, place‑specific destination that celebrates the “Sunriver” identity. A flowing “river” of paving weaves through the play zone, creating an accessible spine from the parking lot into the broader trail network and connecting each play node in a way that works for children and caregivers of all abilities. Swings, natural play elements, and a variety of structures are organized along this route to encourage exploration, imaginative play, and social interaction.
Equally important is the experience of adults and caregivers who spend time in the park. The plan introduces generous seating areas, shaded plazas, and clear sightlines so parents can comfortably supervise children while also enjoying the landscape. New gathering spots and waypoints create intuitive connections to other park amenities, including upgraded courts, picnic facilities, and open lawn areas. Throughout the design, materials, forms, and plant choices reflect the natural character of Sunriver, ensuring that the renewed Fort Rock Park feels both fresh and distinctly rooted in its high‑desert forest setting as it moves toward its anticipated 2028 completion.
