Braden Park

Park Overview

Braden Park is a neighborhood park located in Tulsa, Oklahoma. Situated in the White City area of Tulsa near E 7th Street, the park covers approximately 10 acres.

Originally part of the White City Jersey Dairy Farm in the early 20th century, the park has been a community fixture for decades. Today, it provides a peaceful retreat for local residents, offering a blend of recreational facilities and natural beauty.

Natural Features

The park features a small pond, which was once one of two cattle ponds from the original dairy farm. This pond has historically been a focal point for community activities and today is home to numerous waterfowl including ducks, geese, and occasional swans.

The natural setting provides valuable green space for the surrounding neighborhood with plenty of mature trees offering shaded areas throughout the park. Several benches around the pond allow visitors to relax and enjoy the scenery.

Recreational Amenities

Braden Park offers multiple recreational options for visitors of all ages. The park features two playgrounds – one designed for younger children and another for older kids – with swings, slides, and climbing equipment.

Active visitors can enjoy the tennis courts, which are also used for pickleball. During summer months, the splash pad provides a refreshing escape from the heat.

The park includes several picnic areas with tables and a covered pavilion that can be reserved for events. Scattered grills throughout the park make it ideal for family gatherings and cookouts.

Fishing Opportunities

The pond is regularly stocked with fish by the Department of Wildlife, making it a popular spot for fishing. Visitors can catch various species including channel catfish, sunfish, crappie, and bass.

This makes Braden Park an excellent location for introducing children to fishing in an accessible urban setting.

Historical Development

Over the years, Braden Park has undergone various changes and improvements. In 1938, a WPA flagstone sidewalk was added to the park.

During the late 1930s through the late 1940s, the park contained a popular wading pool, which was later closed due to concerns about polio.

Wildlife

The pond attracts abundant wildlife, particularly waterfowl. Visitors often come specifically to observe and feed the ducks and geese (though experts recommend bringing appropriate feed like cracked corn or oats rather than bread).

The park is also home to numerous squirrels and various bird species, creating a small urban wildlife sanctuary within the neighborhood.

Community Connection

Braden Park has a rich history of community use. In the past, residents enjoyed activities such as ice skating on the pond, bonfires, and weenie roasts.

The park was also a venue for annual casting tournaments sponsored by the Tulsa Anglers Club.

More recently, the park has been enhanced through community efforts, including seasonal planting of flowerbeds and pond clean-up projects spearheaded by local groups like the White City Garden Club.

Many locals consider this hidden gem a perfect spot for family gatherings, walking dogs (on leash), or simply unwinding in a tranquil natural setting within the city.