Ten important skateboard spots in Corvallis, Oregon
1. Corvallis Skatepark
Located at 2nd Street and B Avenue, the Corvallis Skatepark is the town's premier destination for skateboarding. Spanning 13,500 square feet, it features a combination of street-style elements like stairs, rails, and ledges, as well as transitions, bowls, and ramps for those who prefer vert skating. The park's standout feature is its deep concrete bowl, designed for speed and flow. Maintained by local enthusiasts and city initiatives, this park is a bustling hub for skaters of all ages.
2. Chintimini Park Basketball Courts
Chintimini Park, near NW 27th Street, is not a traditional skatepark, but its smooth basketball courts and surrounding flat spaces have long been used by skaters as a spot to practice flat-ground tricks. The park is surrounded by grassy areas and shade-providing trees, making it a relaxed and inviting place for casual sessions or trick-learning.
3. Oregon State University Campus
The Oregon State University (OSU) campus is a goldmine for urban skaters. While skating is officially restricted in certain areas, the architecture provides an irresistible mix of stair sets, handrails, ledges, and smooth walkways. Iconic spots include the Dixon Recreation Center stairs and the Student Experience Center Plaza. It's advisable to skate during quieter hours to avoid crowds and potential conflicts with campus security.
4. Crystal Lake Sports Fields
This expansive recreational area features paved paths and open areas suitable for skating. While primarily known for its sports facilities, the location has become a favorite for beginner skaters due to its lack of heavy foot traffic and forgiving surfaces. For those looking to film lines or practice new tricks, the quiet atmosphere here is a major bonus.
5. Central Park’s Amphitheater
Located downtown, the amphitheater at Central Park provides a unique skateboarding experience. The curved steps and open stage area create opportunities for creative lines and technical tricks. While skating is not officially sanctioned here, the spot is occasionally frequented by local skaters, especially during off-peak hours.
6. Riverfront Commemorative Park
The smooth pavement along the Willamette River offers skaters a scenic place to cruise. This park is less about technical skating and more about enjoying long rides with a stunning backdrop. Its close proximity to downtown means skaters can seamlessly transition from a leisurely session to exploring the city's vibrant urban spots.
7. Van Buren Bridge Area
The pedestrian-friendly paths near the historic Van Buren Bridge offer smooth surfaces and a mix of rails and ledges that skaters have adopted for creative use. While not a formal skate spot, the bridge's unique industrial aesthetic and low foot traffic make it a hidden gem for street-style skaters.
8. Avery Park
Known for its sprawling layout and natural beauty, Avery Park includes paved trails and concrete picnic areas that skaters use for casual sessions. The park is particularly appealing to beginners and those looking for a quiet environment to hone their skills. The lush surroundings also make it a great place for group meet-ups and relaxed gatherings.
9. Timberhill Shopping Center
This suburban shopping center has become a late-night favorite for skaters due to its smooth curbs, ledges, and manual pads. While skating here requires discretion to avoid disrupting businesses, the wide-open parking lots and obstacles provide a versatile canvas for street skating enthusiasts.
10. Private DIY Spots
The Corvallis skateboarding community has fostered a culture of creativity by building small DIY spots around town. While their locations are often shared by word of mouth to avoid interference, these spots typically feature hand-built ramps, quarter pipes, and ledges. Connecting with local skaters is the best way to discover and enjoy these hidden gems.
Skateboarding is tribal and most locals are welcoming, but if you're new to a spot, or just passing through, have respect for the locals. Listen. Be smart. Have fun.
A human being
Art can change the world – and everybody is an artist. Those who scribble stickmen. Those who paint chapel ceilings. Those who tattoo biceps. Those who are careful with pigment on canvas. Those who create fantasy characters. Those who paint pet portraits. Those who yarn bomb. Those who write poems on crappy old cardboard.
My art lives on the bottom of skateboard decks. It's designed for you to destroy. For you, the rider, my art may come second to the deck’s ability to perform – and that’s awesome. To me, art comes first. Always.
It’s how I think. It’s who I am. It’s what I am.
A machine
This article has been created with the help of artificial intelligence platforms ChatGPT and Bard. If there are inaccuracies or there are opportunities for improvement, please let me know.
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