Blakely Park

Features and Recreation

Found in Bend, Blakely Park covers 3.4 acres of green space meant for a family day out. The popular playground is definitely the star attraction here, drawing in families from around the neighborhood. With its fenced play area, parents can relax a bit while keeping an eye on the little ones. The playground caters to kids of all ages - from toddlers just finding their feet to older children looking for more adventure - complete with swings and a pretty cool triple slide that seems to be a hit with everyone.

Beyond the playground, you'll find generous lawn areas dotted with shade trees - ideal for spreading out a blanket for a leisurely picnic or improvising a game of soccer or flag football with friends. If basketball is more your thing, the half court offers an excellent spot to practice your jump shot or enjoy a casual pickup game.

Trail Connections

One of the nicest things about Blakely Park is how it connects to the broader outdoor network of Bend. The park sits conveniently close to both the Deschutes River Trail and the Central Oregon Canal Trail, making it a great jumping-off point if you're in the mood for a longer walk, run, or bike ride.

There's also a paved path on the west side that links to the sidewalk along Brookswood Boulevard, plus a small walking trail within the park itself - well-suited for a gentle stroll or walking your four-legged friend.

Amenities and Hours

No need to cut your park visit short when nature calls - restroom facilities are available right by the playground. They're kept clean and well-maintained, which is always appreciated. You'll discover several picnic tables scattered near the playground and restrooms, but many visitors simply claim a spot under one of the large shade trees for their outdoor meals.

The park welcomes early birds and night owls alike, with gates open daily from 5 am to 10 pm. While Brookswood Boulevard can get busy, the fenced playground creates a nice buffer that helps parents feel more at ease.

Dog-Friendly Environment

Dog owners, rejoice! Blakely Park is dog-friendly, so your pup is welcome to join in on the fun (just keep them leashed). The thoughtful layout, with the playground area fenced off, creates natural separation between the kid zone and open grassy areas where dogs can stretch their legs.

History

There's a bit of local history tucked into this neighborhood park. Acquired in 1995, it was initially dubbed Penstemon Park during its 2001 design phase. A year later, it was renamed Blakely Park as a nod to the "Old Blakely" road that once passed nearby - a small but meaningful way of preserving a piece of Bend's past.

Field Rentals

If you're looking to organize something more formal than a spontaneous game, portions of the park are available for field rentals between April 1 and October 31. You'll need to make a reservation and secure the proper permits, but it's a nice option for team practices, friendly matches, or other organized activities that need a bit more structure and supervision.