Capps Park

A Slice of Fort Worth History

Found on Fort Worth's south side, Capps Park spreads across an entire city block, carrying with it over a century of community memories. Named after William Capps, a notable attorney and real estate developer who gifted the land to the city in 1910, this park has been a neighborhood fixture ever since. By 1915, it proudly hosted Fort Worth's largest public tennis court of the era. For many locals, this green space holds decades of personal memories and has been a meeting point for generations of Fort Worth residents.

Architectural Charm

The park's centerpiece is a distinctive shelter built in 1929, designed by Wilford S. Bogue and constructed by O. B. Johnson. This unique structure features two pergolas connected by a concrete platform that once served as a performance stage. What makes it special is its facing of Palo Pinto sandstone - the same material you'll spot in structures at the Fort Worth Botanic Garden. The platform, stairs, and pergolas underwent reconstruction in 1981. Here's a fun bit of history: until the late 1960s, restrooms were actually located beneath the pergola - which explains the differently colored rocks you might notice in parts of the wall.

Artistic Touches and Modern Updates

In 1999, the park gained an artistic dimension with the installation of "to be with me" - a three-piece stone sculpture by artist Chris Powell at the north end. The playground facilities got a significant facelift in 2004, funded through grants from the U.S. Department of Interior's Urban Park and Recreation Recovery program and Texas Parks and Wildlife Department Community Development Block Grant funds. The playground equipment continues to be updated, making it a hit with the younger crowd.

Recreation for Everyone

The park offers various recreational options for visitors. The tennis courts double as pickleball courts, and they're rarely crowded - good for a casual game without long waits. Sports enthusiasts will appreciate the baseball backstop, while fitness-minded visitors can take advantage of the outdoor exercise equipment for a quick workout.

The walking path that loops around the park measures about 0.25 miles per lap, offering a flat, squared route that's ideal for your morning jog or evening stroll. Within the park, you can find several swings where you can sit back and take in the peaceful surroundings.

A Neighborhood Haven

Today, Capps Park continues to be a popular green space where the community comes together. With about five picnic tables scattered throughout, it's a natural choice for family gatherings or casual meetups with friends. The park is generally clean, tranquil, and safe - offering a peaceful spot to relax, exercise, or spend time with family.

Bring your four-legged friends along too - the park is dog-friendly with plenty of open space to explore. Capps Park welcomes visitors daily from 6AM to 11PM. Just note that there are no public restrooms available on the grounds.