Reverchon Park

A Glimpse of Dallas History

Situated in Dallas's Oak Lawn neighborhood, Reverchon Park spans a generous 41.3 acres of green space that feels like a breath of fresh air in the urban landscape. Dating back to 1914, this community treasure was initially called Turtle Creek Park before being renamed in 1915 to honor Julien Reverchon, a French botanist who made this corner of Texas his home.

The park gently hugs Turtle Creek, a peaceful tributary flowing into the Trinity River. You'll discover the main entrance where Maple Avenue meets Turtle Creek Boulevard - a gateway to one of Dallas's most cherished green spaces.

Stone pathway and marker

Photo: Larry D. Moore (CC BY 4.0)

Natural Beauty & Thoughtful Design

At its core, Reverchon unfolds with winding paths that invite exploration, a spacious play area, and magnificent groves of oak and pecan trees providing natural shade. This central space sits between two wooded hills featuring stonework from the Works Progress Administration (WPA) projects completed between 1935 and 1937.

The Hillside Terrace might be our favorite feature - a network of stone stairwells, bridges, and lookout points that follow the park's bluff. There's something timeless about these handcrafted stone elements that makes you feel connected to another era. On the western hill, you'll discover a circle of stone benches surrounding a substantial stone picnic table - fantastic for gathering with friends.

Nestled at the northern base lies the Iris Bowl, a charming small stone amphitheater with steps, embraced by beds of irises that add seasonal color to the landscape.

Terraced stone garden next to Reverchon Recreation Center

Photo: Larry D. Moore (CC BY 4.0)

Recreation for Everyone

If you're bringing kids along, they'll love the large covered playground that thoughtfully provides shade during those scorching Dallas summers. This smart design makes it a practical year-round destination with modern slides and swings suitable for different ages.

Baseball enthusiasts will appreciate the historic baseball field that's been part of the park since the 1920s and recently received a facelift. The current field and bleachers likely date back to 1924, and it made history as the first lighted field in the Dallas Park system in the late 1930s. It's pretty cool to think that legends like Willie Mays and Johnny Bench once played on these grounds.

Active types can take advantage of the basketball courts or the open spaces that work perfectly for tossing a frisbee, playing catch, or letting your dog stretch its legs. The expansive grassy areas offer plenty of room to spread out a blanket for picnics, with numerous tables scattered throughout if you prefer not to sit on the ground.

Hillside steps in the east section of the park

Photo: Larry D. Moore (CC BY 4.0)

Getting There & Getting Around

One of the park's best features is its direct connection to the Katy Trail, a converted rail line that's now a popular recreational path. This makes Reverchon a wonderful jumping-off point for a jog or stroll along this treasured Dallas trail.

You can visit anytime since the park is open 24 hours. Street parking is available around the perimeter, however it tends to fill up quickly during peak times, so arriving early on weekends is a good idea.

The historic stone features throughout - curved bridges, cozy love seats, and reading benches (complete with a Little Library) - add character that's hard to find in newer parks. These touches make Reverchon a favorite among photographers and anyone seeking a moment of peace within the city.

From family outings and fitness routines to quiet moments with nature, this historic park offers a little something for everyone in the heart of Dallas. During the year, it hosts various community gatherings, including the annual Katy Trail 5K after-party held on the first Thursday of September.