B.C. Barnes Park

History and Namesake

B.C. Barnes Park bears the name of a remarkable individual who not only served his country as a veteran of World War II and the Korean War but also shaped young minds as a Professor of Business Administration at the University of Texas at Arlington (UTA). Barnes later stepped into the role of Vice President of Fiscal Affairs at UTA, leaving a lasting legacy in both military service and education.

Park Overview

Found in a residential pocket of Arlington, this 9-acre green haven offers an ideal escape from the daily grind. While not massive in size, B.C. Barnes Park packs in plenty of charm with its mix of wooded areas and open fields that cater to all sorts of outdoor enthusiasts.

One of the park's biggest perks? The shaded areas that feel like absolute bliss during Texas summer days. The park maintains a clean, welcoming atmosphere whether you're flying solo for some peace and quiet or bringing the whole family for an afternoon of fun.

Amenities and Features

Kids hit the jackpot here with two separate playgrounds thoughtfully designed for different age groups. The little ones (ages 2-5) have their own space, while older children (5-12) can enjoy more challenging equipment. You'll come across all the playground classics: swings (including baby swings for the tiniest visitors), a fun tire swing, monkey bars for the climbers, rock climbing ropes for the adventurous, and spinning play equipment that never seems to go out of style. Parents will appreciate that most play areas sit under shade, making afternoon playdates much more comfortable.

Active types can take advantage of the multi-purpose practice fields for impromptu games or workout sessions. There's also a walking trail circling the park that's fantastic for your morning jog, evening stroll, or walking Fido (just remember to bring those doggy bags).

Picnic and Gathering Areas

The park's covered pavilion makes a great spot for small gatherings, with about 4-6 picnic tables sheltered from sun and rain. It comes equipped with an electrical outlet and nearby water fountains - handy for those family reunions or birthday celebrations. Just note that you'll need to plan bathroom breaks elsewhere, as there are no public restrooms on site.

Trash cans are conveniently placed around the grounds, which helps keep the park looking tidy. You'll also find plenty of benches scattered around, great for when you need to take a load off and simply enjoy watching the clouds drift by.

Accessibility and Hours

Getting here is straightforward with a dedicated parking lot for visitors. The park welcomes early birds and night owls alike, operating from 5 AM to 10 PM daily. Just a heads-up that if you're planning an evening gathering at the pavilion, you might want to bring extra lighting since it gets pretty dark after 8 PM. Since the park neighbors a school, you can find it's often quieter during school hours and tends to come alive with energy once the final bell rings.