Oquirrh Highlands Park

Description

Oquirrh Highlands Park in West Jordan is one of those places that surprises you the first time you visit. It’s not the biggest park in Utah, but it has this open, airy feel that makes you want to slow down and just breathe for a bit. The park is well-kept, with wide grassy areas that seem to invite impromptu soccer games or a quiet picnic under the shade. And for families, it’s a bit of a gem—there’s a playground with slides that kids never seem to get tired of, plus plenty of space for them to run without you feeling like you have to keep them on a short leash.

What makes it stand out to me is how it balances being a community space with still feeling like a little retreat. You’ll see parents chatting on benches while their kids play, people walking their dogs (yes, dogs are welcome here), and the occasional jogger looping around the paths. It’s also wheelchair accessible, both in terms of the entrance and parking, which is something I think should be standard everywhere but sadly isn’t. The vibe here is friendly and relaxed, but not overly busy—you can usually find a quiet corner if that’s what you’re after.

Of course, like any public space, it’s not perfect. Some folks might find it a bit too simple if they’re used to parks with big splash pads or elaborate gardens. And on windy days, the open layout can make it feel a little exposed. But honestly, that’s part of the charm—it’s straightforward, no-fuss, and feels like a real neighborhood park rather than a tourist trap. If you go in with the right expectations, you’ll likely leave with a smile and maybe a bit of grass on your shoes.

Key Features

• Wheelchair-accessible entrance and parking for easy access
• Playground with slides, ideal for younger children
• Open grassy areas perfect for sports, picnics, or lounging
• Picnic tables for casual outdoor meals
• Dog-friendly environment with space to walk or play fetch
• Quiet atmosphere compared to larger, busier parks

Best Time to Visit

If you’re aiming for the sweet spot, late spring and early fall tend to be the most comfortable times to visit Oquirrh Highlands Park. Summer can be lovely too, but the midday sun can be intense, and there’s not a ton of dense shade. Morning visits are great year-round—you’ll often have the place mostly to yourself, except for a few early risers and dog walkers. Winter has its own charm if you don’t mind bundling up; the park gets a peaceful, almost hushed quality when the air is crisp. Personally, I think autumn here is underrated—the cooler air makes it perfect for a long stroll, and the trees put on a subtle but pretty show.

How to Get There

Reaching Oquirrh Highlands Park is straightforward if you’re already in the West Jordan area. It’s tucked into a residential neighborhood, so you won’t be battling heavy traffic or complicated intersections to get there. Most locals drive, and parking is free and easy to find right by the entrance. For those without a car, public transit options can get you reasonably close, but you might still have a short walk from the nearest stop. If you’re using a rideshare, just be sure to double-check the drop-off point so you don’t end up on the wrong side of the park—it’s not huge, but walking around the block can feel longer than it sounds when you’re carrying picnic supplies.

Tips for Visiting

First off, bring water—there are drinking fountains, but I’ve learned the hard way that they’re not always turned on early in the season. If you’re planning on a picnic, the tables are a nice option, but they can fill up quickly on weekends, so arriving earlier is your best bet. Dog owners should remember to bring waste bags, even though the park does provide a few stations. For parents, the playground is in good shape, but keeping an eye out is still important since it’s close to the open field where older kids sometimes play ball games.

And here’s a little personal tip: if you’re the kind of person who likes a quiet read outdoors, head to the far side of the park in the late afternoon. The light is softer, the noise dies down, and you might just have a bench to yourself. Also, don’t be afraid to visit in winter—just dress in layers. I once came here after a light snowfall, and the crunch of the snow under my boots with no other sound around was oddly calming. It’s those little moments that make a place like this stick in your memory.

Location

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