Discovering Fresno Parks: A Local’s Guide to Outdoor Fun

Fresno, CA is home to several parks that offer a wide range of outdoor activities for its residents and visitors. From lush green spaces and scenic trails to fun-filled playgrounds and picnic areas, there’s no shortage of options when it comes to enjoying the outdoors in Fresno. Here are some of the top parks for visitors or locals who own a home or rent an apartment in Fresno. 

1. Woodward Park

Woodward Park is a large public park which covers an area of around 300 acres and features a variety of recreational amenities and attractions for visitors of all ages.

The Shinzen Friendship Garden stands out as one of the key attractions of Woodward Park. This is a Japanese-style garden that features a koi pond, waterfalls, and a variety of plants and flowers. It is a popular spot for quiet contemplation and relaxation.

Another popular activity at the park is bird watching. Woodward Park is home to a variety of bird species, including hawks, eagles, and owls. There are designated areas for bird watching, and visitors can often see the birds flying overhead or perched in trees.

For children, Woodward Park has several playgrounds that are great for kids of all ages. They feature swings, slides, and climbing structures, as well as picnic tables and benches for parents to relax on.

For those who enjoy outdoor exercise, there are several miles of trails that wind through the park. These trails are great for jogging, walking, and biking.

Finally, the Woodward Park Amphitheater is a popular spot for events and concerts throughout the year. It has seating for up to 2,500 people and features a stage, sound system, and lighting.

2. Roeding Park

Roeding Park is known for its lush green spaces, mature trees, and beautiful landscapes.

The Fresno Chaffee Zoo, located within the park, features a variety of animals from around the world, including elephants, lions, tigers, and bears. 

Another popular attraction in Roeding Park is the Rotary Storyland and Playland amusement park. This park features a variety of rides and attractions for children, as well as a theater that stages live performances of classic children’s stories.

For those who enjoy outdoor recreation, Roeding Park offers several amenities, including a lake for fishing, picnic areas, and playgrounds. There are also several miles of walking and jogging paths that wind through the park, making it a popular spot for exercise and outdoor activities.

Roeding Park is also home to the Fresno Art Museum, which showcases a variety of contemporary and modern art from around the world. The museum also hosts regular events and exhibitions throughout the year.

3. Kearney Park

One of the highlights of Kearney Park is the Kearney Mansion Museum, which is located within the park. The mansion was built in 1903 and features original furnishings, art, and artifacts from the early 1900s. The museum offers tours throughout the year and is a popular spot for history buffs and those interested in the region’s past.

Another popular attraction in Kearney Park is the Kearney Disc Golf Course. This course features 18 holes and is a popular spot for disc golf enthusiasts of all skill levels. The course offers challenging terrain and beautiful views of the park and surrounding area.

Kearney Park offers picnic areas, playgrounds, and walking paths. There are also several miles of trails that wind through the park, making it a popular spot for hiking and biking. The park also features many event spaces that can accommodate large groups, and it is a popular spot for weddings, concerts, and festivals throughout the year.

4. Oso de Oro Lake Park

The park covers an area of 18 acres and features a small lake where visitors can fish, kayak, or pedal boat. The park also has a playground area, picnic shelters, and walking trails that offer beautiful views of the lake and surrounding hills. Additionally, the park includes a dog park area where dogs can run and play off-leash.

Oso de Oro Lake Park is a popular destination for families and individuals who enjoy outdoor activities such as hiking, fishing, and boating. The park’s serene lake provides a peaceful retreat from the hustle and bustle of the city, making it an ideal location for a picnic or a leisurely stroll. The park is also home to a variety of wildlife, including ducks, geese, and turtles, which can be seen around the lake. Overall, Oso de Oro Lake Park is a wonderful place to spend a relaxing day in nature with family and friends.

5. Figarden Loop Park

Figarden Loop Park is a popular community park located in Fresno, California. The park features several picnic areas with tables and barbecues, as well as a large playground with swings, slides, and climbing structures for children to enjoy. There are also multiple sports fields for soccer, baseball, and softball, as well as a basketball court and a horseshoe pit.

The dog park is a notable feature of Figarden Loop Park, and it is a favored destination among dog owners and their four-legged friends. It’s fully fenced and offers separate areas for small and large dogs to play and socialize off-leash. There are also several benches for owners to relax and watch their dogs play.

In addition to the recreational facilities, Figarden Loop Park also has a walking path that winds through the park and provides a scenic route for joggers and walkers. The park is known for its lush landscaping, with plenty of trees and green spaces that offer a peaceful retreat from the hustle and bustle of the city.

6. Todd Beamer Park

Todd Beamer Park is popular community park in Fresno. The park is named after Todd Beamer, one of the passengers on United Airlines Flight 93, who helped to foil the hijackers’ plans on September 11, 2001. 

Todd Beamer’s skate park is a top attraction and is a popular spot for skateboarders and BMX riders. The skate park features several ramps, rails, and other obstacles for riders to perform tricks and stunts.

Another popular feature of Todd Beamer Park is its playground, which is a great spot for children to climb, slide, and play. The playground features a variety of equipment, including swings, slides, and climbing structures, and is suitable for children of all ages.

Todd Beamer Park offers several amenities, including a walking path, picnic tables, and barbecue grills. The park is also home to several sports fields, including a soccer field and basketball court, making it a popular spot for team sports and outdoor activities. The park features a covered pavilion that can accommodate large groups, and it is a popular spot for picnics, parties, and other events throughout the year.

7. Eaton Plaza

Eaton Plaza is a public park located in the heart of downtown Fresno.One of the highlights of Eaton Plaza is its large central fountain, which is a popular spot for visitors to relax and cool off during the hot summer months. The fountain features several water jets and is surrounded by benches and shaded seating areas.

Eaton Plaza’s stage is another prominent attraction that hosts concerts, performances, and various events all year round. The stage is enveloped by a grassy expanse that is perfect for picnics and other outdoor recreational activities.

In addition to its recreational facilities, Eaton Plaza also serves as an important historical landmark in the city. The park features a number of monuments and memorials, including a statue of the famous writer William Saroyan, who was born and raised in Fresno. The plaza is also home to several art installations, including murals and sculptures, that celebrate the rich cultural heritage of the city.

Learn more about Fresno

Fresno Attractions: Top Sights and Activities to Experience as a Local or New Resident

Is Fresno a Good Place to Live? Exploring the Pros and Cons

Road Trip Worthy: 10 Day Trips from Fresno You Can’t Miss

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