Butcher Park

Recreation Facilities

Nestled at the corner of Camden Avenue and Lancaster Drive, Butcher Park spans a generous 10 acres in the heart of urban San Jose. If softball's your thing, you can find an unlighted field excellent for both casual games with friends and more organized competitions.

Soccer enthusiasts can also use the field, but you'll need to snag a permit first. Basketball more your style? The park has two basketball courts that are open to the public - and we've got to say, these courts are something of a local favorite, with many players specifically calling them out as a highlight.

Rounding out the sports options is a hard top volleyball court, giving you yet another reason to gather your crew for some outdoor fun.

Family-Friendly Areas

If you're bringing the little ones along, Butcher Park offers age-appropriate playground zones. There's a dedicated play area for the 2-5 year crowd and a separate section designed for 5-12 year olds, complete with a nice play structure that keeps kids entertained.

Just a heads-up though - if you're planning a visit with very young toddlers, you might find the activities somewhat limited. For families with older children, however, there's plenty to keep them engaged.

The park previously featured a water play area that was ideal for cooling off on hot days, but unfortunately, this attraction is currently closed.

Dog-Friendly Spaces

Four-legged friends are welcome at Butcher Park, making it a go-to spot for local dog owners. Your pup can romp around in both grassy areas and dirt patches throughout the grounds. The park typically provides poop bag dispensers, but you might want to bring your own just in case they're empty.

Note that there's no dedicated water source for dogs, so remember to pack some H2O for your furry companion. Several benches and shaded spots offer comfortable places to relax while your dog explores.

Amenities

Planning a get-together? The park offers non-reservable picnic sites and BBQ facilities that make it easy to enjoy a meal outdoors. Just remember that you can't reserve these spaces in advance, so it's first come, first served.

You'll also find restroom facilities around the park - a convenience that parents especially appreciate when spending the day with kids.

While Butcher Park does offer some nice shaded areas, these coveted spots can fill up quickly on sunny days. The same goes for parking - spaces near the park can be limited, so you might want to arrive early if you're visiting during peak hours.

Current Status

As of now, Butcher Park is undergoing some renovations, particularly in the playground areas. Recent upgrades include synthetic turf installation in certain sections, giving the park a fresher, cleaner look. Due to this ongoing work, the park may be temporarily closed until further notice.