Anderson Bonner Park

A Touch of History in North Dallas

Tucked along White Rock Creek in Dallas, Texas sits the 44.1-acre Anderson Bonner Park. Established in 1976, this green sanctuary offers locals and visitors a peaceful retreat from the city buzz.

The park bears the name of Anderson Bonner, a remarkable individual born into slavery around 1839 who later became a successful Texas landowner and businessman. Bonner's entrepreneurial spirit helped him acquire over two thousand acres in what is now known as North Dallas and Richardson. Pretty impressive, right?

This park actually sits on a portion of Bonner's original property - a fitting tribute to a man who transformed his life after slavery. His story remains an inspiring piece of significant Black history in both Dallas and Texas.

What You'll Find Here

Winding through the park is a well-maintained walking, running, and biking trail that follows the natural course of White Rock Creek. It's great for a quick nature fix or a solid workout.

One cool thing about this path? It connects to the larger White Rock Lake trail system, so if you're feeling ambitious, you can extend your journey through more of Dallas's green spaces. The wide paths easily accommodate everything from leisurely walks to serious training sessions.

In the midst of North Dallas's busy roads, this park offers a surprisingly tranquil escape. The peaceful sounds of flowing water and the abundance of greenery make it easy to forget you're still in the city.

Places to Play

Looking to kick a ball around? The park features soccer fields that serve both organized local teams and casual players. These open spaces provide plenty of room for various activities when they're not occupied for games.

Families with kids will appreciate the small playground located near the soccer fields. It's typically clean and rarely crowded - a nice low-key option when you need to let the little ones burn some energy.

While there aren't designated picnic areas with tables and grills, you'll come across plenty of spots to sit and relax across the grounds. Some folks come here just to meditate or enjoy a quiet moment surrounded by nature.

Good to Know

If you're driving, you can find parking lots available for visitors. The park welcomes early birds and night owls alike, with hours running daily from 5 AM to 11 PM.

You can find drinking water within the park, but plan ahead as there are no public restroom facilities on the grounds.

Dog owners, rejoice! The park is dog-friendly, making it a great spot to exercise your four-legged friends while enjoying the trails. The mix of open spaces and shaded paths keeps both humans and pets happy.

Honoring a Legacy

In 2022, the park received a meaningful addition with the dedication of a historical marker and sculpture honoring Anderson Bonner, further cementing his importance to the local community and ensuring his story continues to be shared with new generations of park visitors.