Miller Woods

Experience and enjoy
the dynamic wonders of nature

Visit
Rules & Warnings
Activities
The Millers

Visit • Explore •  Adventure • Connect

Miller Woods provides opportunities for all ages to experience and enjoy the dynamic wonders of nature, and learn about forestry, wildlife, soils, watershed health, native plants, and the role of people in the landscape.

Located three miles west of McMinnville and available for public hiking and activities, Miller Woods is an educational venue that provides a wide array of outdoor experiences for people of all ages. The diverse property has ecosystems that include hayfield, oak savannah, timber stands, ponds, and streams which are home to a variety of native plants, birds, and other wildlife. Visitors enjoy hiking, running, exploring the many natural features, discovering critters, and so much more! Miller Woods hosts many outdoor camps and field trips, along with volunteer opportunities for groups wanting to contribute to conservation.

Guests are asked to contribute a donation for day-use, and frequent visitors/nature enthusiasts are encouraged to sign up for an annual membership. These property-use donations help protect and maintain Miller Woods for public use and provides necessary funding so we may offer quality outdoor experiences and education to our community. We ask that groups larger than 10 request use and schedule their visit. 

Miller Woods is owned and operated by the Yamhill Soil & Water Conservation District. The 130 acres of forest and grass land that make up Miller Woods were generously bequeathed to the District by Frieda Miller in 2004.  Frieda and her husband K.T. Miller settled on the property in 1967, and wanted to see the property used to advance outdoor education.


Discovery Loop Trail

The Discovery Trail, a short one-third mile loop, was made to increase the educational and recreational opportunities at Miller Woods by acquainting visitors to the rich environmental variety of Yamhill County. The interpretive signs around the loop introduces various plant and animal communities that are part of Miller Woods. Each includes suggested age-appropriate educational activities for visitors.

Wildlife Cover Boards

While exploring Miller Woods, take a moment to examine the Wildlife Cover Boards. The boards have a wood frame surrounding corrugated metal and have a handle so you can lift and see what critters may be underneath! Reptiles, amphibians, and/or small mammals may use the boards to stay cool and to hide from predators.
Use the map below to find the locations of all eleven boards. Below, you will find descriptions and photos to identify the various animals you may find hiding under or around the cover boards. Animals may not always be present… but you never know what you’ll find!

 

A collage of Frieda's Pond, Freida's Park, and Frieda Miller

Tribute to the Millers

The 130 acres of land which comprises Miller Woods was bequeathed to Yamhill Soil and Water Conservation District by Frieda Miller in 2004. Frieda and her husband K.T. Miller settled on the property in 1967 after retiring from a career as military contractors in Alaska. Both Frieda and K.T. had a deep appreciation for nature and for active management of their woodland which they managed for timber and wildlife.

As with The Miller’s vision for the property, Miller Woods is devoted to  providing quality outdoor education for Yamhill County adults and youth.

Over the years, the District has developed a comprehensive management and education plan for the property, with an emphasis on hosting guided groups that are engaged in educational activities.

We continue to honor the Millers for their generous gift to our nature-loving community and their vision for this beautiful, rich land.