Fruitvale Norris Park

Park Overview

Positioned in North Bakersfield, California, Fruitvale Norris Park offers a generous 17.6 acres of green space where the community comes together. This well-kept park has become something of a local retreat, providing a clean, safe environment where everyone from toddlers to seniors can find their happy place outdoors.

Sports Facilities

The park features five baseball diamonds that cater to players of all skill levels. Two larger fields serve the grown-ups, while three smaller ones are fantastic for the kiddos, with the tiniest diamond even padded for the little leaguers just finding their footing. Night owls can take advantage of lighting on two fields for those perfect summer evening games.

But baseball isn't the only game in town. You'll find two basketball courts for shooting hoops and two tennis courts that get some TLC with occasional renovations. If you're into more traditional pastimes, head to the back of the park where horseshoe pits await your best throw.

Picnic Areas

When hunger strikes or you're just looking to hang out, the park offers several picnic areas. Scattered throughout are family picnic pads well-suited for smaller gatherings, while two group picnic shelters complete with tables and BBQ pits make hosting larger get-togethers a breeze.

Many of these spots are nestled under mature shade trees, offering a natural respite from the California sun - particularly welcome during those warmer months.

Playground

Kids light up at the sight of the two playground areas with their variety of play structures. From slides and swings to monkey bars and a sandbox, there's plenty to keep young imaginations busy. One playground area is thoughtfully designed to be adaptive, ensuring that children of all abilities can join in the fun.

The play areas are kept in tip-top shape, giving parents peace of mind while their little ones climb, slide, and make new friends.

Leisure Spaces

Sometimes you just need to take it easy. For those mellow days, the park's open play areas and abundance of mature shade trees create perfect spots for reading a book, having a picnic, or simply watching the clouds drift by. These shaded havens are particularly welcome when Bakersfield's temperature starts climbing.

The park's recreation building adds another dimension to what's possible here, hosting community programs and occasionally functioning as a venue for pet vaccination clinics run by local animal services.

Amenities

Yes, there are restroom facilities around the park. While their condition might vary from day to day, the dedicated park rangers and maintenance crew work hard to keep everything in good shape. They're pretty quick to tackle issues like graffiti when they pop up.

No need to circle around looking for a spot - ample parking is available across the park, with some coveted shady spots under the trees for those who arrive early.

Location

You'll come across this shared escape at the southeast corner of Fruitvale Avenue and Norris Road, making it easy to reach from most parts of the city. The park welcomes visitors daily from 6AM to 10PM, giving you plenty of time to enjoy all it has to offer, whether you're an early bird or prefer evening strolls.