Dunsmore Park

A Glimpse into the Past

Positioned in Glendale lies a park with a story to tell. Once the grounds of the Mount Lukens Sanitarium (later known as Dunsmore Sanitarium), this space was transformed into a public park in 1957. The City of Glendale preserved pieces of the property's past, including the community house and the distinctive rock gateways and retaining walls.

These walls tell their own tale. Built in the 1940s and 50s by Milton Hofert (the former sanitarium's owner), they showcase an eclectic collection of local granite mixed with colorful geological fragments from across the western states. Look closely and you'll spot embedded artifacts ranging from decorative trinkets to industrial odds and ends. While some of these quirky additions have disappeared over time, the walls remain one of the park's most intriguing features.

What You'll Find

Spanning 9.63 acres, Dunsmore Park offers something for everyone. This local park, owned and operated by the City of Glendale, balances spaces for active recreation with quieter areas for relaxation. The grounds are generally well-kept, with regular maintenance to keep the area clean.

Get Moving

At the heart of the park sits a baseball field that draws sports enthusiasts year-round. Though it occasionally shows signs of wear, the field remains a popular spot for both casual games and organized activities.

If baseball isn't your thing, you can take advantage of the tennis courts or cool off in the swimming pool during warmer months. For those who prefer a more relaxed pace, the walking trails winding through the grounds make for pleasant strolls, jogs, or bike rides.

Kid-Friendly Zones

The park features two expansive play areas designed with different age groups in mind. The modern playground equipment features safer materials and provides plenty of space for little ones to burn off energy. The playgrounds have been updated over the years but continue to be a magnet for families with young children looking for a safe place to play.

Gather & Grill

Planning a get-together? The well-maintained picnic areas come equipped with grilling facilities, great for family reunions or casual hangouts. We appreciate how the layout creates separate zones for different groups, giving everyone their own space.

You'll also find benches scattered within the park, offering convenient spots to rest, enjoy a snack, or simply take in the surroundings. When the California sun beats down, the shaded areas become particularly valuable retreats.

Community Hub

Need an affordable venue for your next event? The park includes a recreational room available for reservations. This versatile indoor space has hosted everything from birthday parties to intimate weddings over the years. It offers views of the surrounding park and functions as a community gathering place.

Four-Legged Friends Welcome

While not officially designated as a dog park, Dunsmore has become a favorite among dog owners. The open spaces, especially the area behind the baseball field, provide room for dogs to stretch their legs and play. Just note that these areas aren't fully fenced, so you'll need to keep your pup under voice control and be mindful of other park users. Both large and small dogs seem to enjoy the spacious grounds.

Good to Know

The park features good lighting in the evening, making it suitable for twilight walks. Keep in mind that the hilly terrain and occasionally uneven concrete paths might be challenging for very young children or those with mobility issues.

One important heads-up: the park's location near wilderness areas means wildlife sightings happen occasionally, including mountain lions. Park staff post notices when such sightings occur to keep everyone informed about potential safety concerns.