Bagley Community Park

Park Overview

Positioned in central Vancouver, Washington, Bagley Community Park spans 15.3 acres of recreational bliss in the Bagley Downs Neighborhood. This green space provides a retreat for folks from central Vancouver, including residents from the Bagley Downs, Fourth Plain Village, Meadow Homes, and Maplewood neighborhoods.

The park sits on mostly flat ground, however, the northern edge along Nicholson Road offers a bit more elevation for those looking for a slight incline. Nature enthusiasts might appreciate the wetlands in the northwest corner, which form the headwaters of Headache Creek - a little natural corner within the urban setting.

Location and Surroundings

Bagley's location is pretty ideal for families, as it borders several educational facilities including Eleanor Roosevelt Elementary School, the Jim Parsley Community Center, and the Bates Center for Educational Leadership. If you've got kids attending these schools, the park makes for a convenient after-school hangout spot.

The park has deep roots in the community, historically acting as the go-to venue for Vancouver's youth and adult sports leagues. Today, it continues this tradition, hosting various sporting events during the year.

Recreational Facilities

Regardless of whether you're a sports enthusiast or just looking to enjoy some fresh air, Bagley has something for you. The baseball fields, basketball court, and soccer fields accommodate both organized team sports and casual pickup games.

Kids gravitate toward the playground area with its swings, jungle gym, monkey bars, and slides set on a forgiving soft surface. Some of the wooden playground equipment shows its age with a bit of wear, but that doesn't seem to dampen any enthusiasm.

Need a spot for lunch or a small gathering? The picnic areas near the playground offer several tables, making it easy to host birthday parties or family get-togethers. And if you're just looking to toss a frisbee or let your dog stretch its legs, the expansive grassy areas provide plenty of room to roam.

Natural Features and Accessibility

On scorching summer days, you'll appreciate the mature shade trees scattered within the park. Dog owners make good use of the walking paths and grassy areas, with convenient dog waste bag dispensers positioned around the grounds for easy cleanup.

The park welcomes visitors daily from 5AM to 10PM, giving you plenty of time to enjoy its offerings. Since most of the park is flat, it's generally accessible for people of all mobility levels.

Future Development

Exciting changes are on the horizon! In August 2024, a new master plan for Bagley Community Park received approval from the Parks and Recreation Advisory Commission. The plan includes creating a colorful park that reflects the diverse cultures of the Fourth Plain corridor.

The redesign is intended to create an inclusive space where people of all ages can enjoy recreational activities. At the heart of the new design is a wide promenade cutting through the center of the park, offering a central gathering space.

This central walkway will offer spaces for strolling, sitting, playing, and hosting gatherings. As you wander along this promenade, you'll discover dedicated areas for picnicking, play, exercise, and relaxation.

Special Features

The upcoming redesign includes water features that will change during the rainy season, creating landscapes that shift with the weather.

The plans include a destination play area for children of all ages. This space should add to the park's appeal for families with young children.

If you want to cool off during the warmer months, the park is located near a public swimming pool - helpful for those hot summer days.

Restrooms are available in the park, however it's worth noting they're seasonal, and maintenance quality can vary year-round.