Friendship Park

Park Overview

Found in Dallas, Texas, Friendship Park is a charming 10.8-acre green space that's been bringing neighbors together since 1974. This park sits at the north end of Lake Highlands, just north of Walnut Street and right beside Forestridge Elementary School. There's a peaceful quality about this park - a quiet retreat from the usual city hustle.

Entrance and Playground

As you approach the park, you'll be greeted by a vibrant native plant garden that adds a splash of color to your arrival. The playground area is thoughtfully designed with two separate play structures to keep kids of different ages happily occupied.

Little ones (ages 2-5) have their own play set with built-in toys and a small slide that's just the right size. Older kids can tackle the larger structure featuring a telescope for imaginary adventures and two slides for racing friends.

The playground doesn't stop there - you'll come across swings for bigger kids and babies alike, plus fun bucket seats for spinning and spring-loaded toys that bounce. Parents will appreciate the good shade coverage and nearby seating, fantastic for keeping an eye on the kiddos while taking a breather.

Park Amenities

The park offers a lovely balance of sun and shade, with mature trees creating cool spots to escape the Texas heat. A walking trail meanders through in gentle curves, making for a pleasant stroll through nature.

You'll find benches and picnic tables conveniently placed near the playground - ideal for family lunches or afternoon snacks. If you're in the mood for cooking outdoors, BBQ grills are available for an impromptu cookout.

Sports enthusiasts haven't been forgotten, with an outdoor basketball court featuring double hoops and pickleball courts complete with spectator seating. The expansive grassy areas provide plenty of room for impromptu soccer games, kite flying, or simply spreading out a blanket to relax.

Recreation Options

No matter your age or interests, Friendship Park has something for you. The walking and cycling paths are generously sized, allowing multiple activities to happen without crowding.

The pickleball courts attract regular players who tend to be welcoming toward newcomers. Dog owners will appreciate the open spaces for walking their four-legged friends, however do note that leashes are required as there's no fenced dog area.

Park Development

Friendship Park keeps getting better with time. Recent upgrades include a new parking lot with 16 dedicated spots, additional benches throughout, and freshly planted trees that will grow to provide even more shade in the coming years.

Ongoing improvements show continued investment in maintaining the park for neighborhood residents.

Visitor Information

A few practical things to know before you visit: the park doesn't have public restrooms or water fountains, so plan accordingly. You can park in the new lot or find street parking along Hornbeam Drive.

If you're looking for a quieter experience, you might want to avoid times when school lets out, as the playground can get lively when Forestridge Elementary is in session. The park welcomes visitors daily from 6 AM to 10 PM.