Bowler Park

Park Overview

Located in Southeast Boise, Bowler Park is a 24.62-acre space that offers an excellent blend of recreation and nature. Donated by Beth and Bruce Bowler in 1995, this relatively new addition to Boise's park system officially opened its gates on July 13, 2021.

What makes this park special is how it balances developed fun with untouched wilderness. As you explore, you'll find nice views of the foothills and Hammer Flats that might have you wanting to take some photos - the views are quite picturesque.

Features and Layout

The park smartly divides its space with six acres dedicated to recreational facilities where you can play and gather, while the remaining 19 acres have been left natural - preserving the local ecosystem just as it is.

This design is part of Boise's participation in the America The Beautiful Campaign, a nationwide effort to conserve natural landscapes. Since Bowler Park is still in its youth, the trees haven't had time to mature yet, which means shade can be limited - something to keep in mind on those sunny Idaho days.

Recreational Facilities

Bowler Park offers several recreational options. The playground has modern equipment including a tall corkscrew slide popular with older children, while also offering safer options for the little ones.

If you're looking to stay active, you'll find a beginner-friendly disc golf course with clearly marked holes, a compact skate park that accommodates various skill levels, bocce ball courts for a more leisurely game, and an outdoor fitness area equipped with exercise stations. There's also a spacious grassy field meant for impromptu games of catch or just lounging with a book.

Dog-Friendly Areas

Your four-legged friends haven't been forgotten at Bowler Park. The dedicated dog park features separate sections for large and small dogs, giving them safe space to run and socialize off-leash. You'll appreciate that these areas are completely separated from the children's playground - keeping everyone's experience positive.

If you prefer to walk with your dog, the park's trails welcome leashed pets, making this a go-to destination for many local dog owners.

Amenities

You'll find all the essentials here - clean restrooms and convenient water stations with bottle fillers to keep you hydrated. Need a spot for lunch? The covered picnic shelter offers multiple tables, including wheelchair accessible options.

On those hot summer days, the water misters provide a refreshing respite from the heat - a thoughtful touch that helps make up for the limited natural shade. The park welcomes visitors daily from 6AM to 8PM.

Historical Significance

There's more to this park than just recreation - it carries a meaningful legacy. Named after Bruce Bowler, a dedicated Idaho conservationist, the park honors a man who worked tirelessly to protect Idaho's wild spaces. His impressive conservation efforts included shielding areas from mining in the White Cloud Mountains, preventing dam construction on the Snake River, and helping establish the massive 2.3 million-acre River of No Return Wilderness.

Location and Vision

Situated off South Surprise Way, below the cliffs of the Columbia Village neighborhood, Bowler Park offers visitors impressive panoramic views that showcase Idaho's natural beauty.

The park is part of Boise's urban planning approach, working toward the city's goal that every child should have just a 10-minute walk to reach a park.