Big Sky Park

Park Overview

Sprawling across 97 acres on the east side of Bend, Oregon, Big Sky Park offers a breath of fresh air for outdoor enthusiasts. At its heart sits the Luke Damon Sports Complex, a popular spot for athletic activities in Central Oregon. Regardless of whether you're a sports fanatic, biking enthusiast, dog lover, or just looking for a family day out, this expansive green space has something for everyone.

Sports Facilities

Athletes of all stripes will feel right at home here. The park features four multi-purpose fields where you'll find everything from lacrosse and rugby to soccer, ultimate frisbee, and football games in full swing. Baseball players can enjoy a full-sized diamond with a grass infield, while softball enthusiasts have several dedicated fields at their disposal.

These fields buzz with activity during tournament seasons and league play, particularly when spring and summer roll around. Just a heads-up: some infield areas might have a few uneven spots, but that rarely dampens the competitive spirit that thrives here.

Biking Features

Big Sky Park has excellent biking facilities. The BMX track run by Bend BMX has seen recent upgrades that take the racing experience up a notch. As of June 2023, the park expanded to include a comprehensive bike park with features catering to everyone from wobbly beginners to confident experts.

The popular pump track comes in both paved and dirt varieties, giving riders options based on their preference. Tiny cyclists will love the tot zone designed specifically with the youngest riders in mind. For those looking to improve their skills, there's a dedicated trials area, skills development section, and single-track trails weaving around the park.

The pump track tends to be a hotspot for families with kids, particularly filling up after school lets out and on weekends. Many visitors come specifically for these biking amenities.

Pet-Friendly Areas

The off-leash dog area in the northeast corner is quite impressive. Spanning several acres, this area features multiple fenced sections with both wide-open spaces and shaded trails winding through tree-lined areas. Your four-legged friend can romp across varied terrain, from spacious grassy fields to natural walking paths.

On hot days, water spigots provide much-needed refreshment for thirsty pups, although be aware that some sections can get dusty during dry spells. Both locals and visitors often consider this one of the better off-leash areas in the region.

Family Amenities

Kids have plenty of room to let their imaginations run wild at Big Sky's multiple playground areas, each designed with different age groups in mind. The main playground features a generously shaded play structure complete with built-in musical instruments that add an interactive twist to playtime. Safety comes first with wood chip surfacing throughout these areas.

Planning a gathering? Three covered picnic shelters are available for reservation, some equipped with built-in grills - fantastic for birthday celebrations, team meetups, or family reunions. Clean restroom facilities are scattered within the park, but you might need to walk a bit depending on where you're playing.

With recent improvements adding 93 new parking spaces, finding a spot is usually straightforward - except during major sporting events when spaces can become premium real estate.

Trails

Lace up your walking shoes and hit the soft-surface perimeter trail that loops around the park for over 1.5 miles of scenic pathway. This versatile track welcomes walkers, joggers, and casual cyclists alike, offering access to various park features along the way. Some visitors particularly enjoy the approximately two-mile hiking path that meanders through the park's more natural sections.

The trails cutting through sagebrush areas have become favorites among dog owners looking for on-leash walking options beyond the dedicated off-leash zones. These pathways invite you to explore the full extent of this generous park and discover quieter pockets away from the more active areas - excellent for when you need a moment of peace amid nature.