Woodward Park is Fresno’s largest public park — 300 acres of trails, gardens, sports zones, and open space in northeast Fresno. Here is everything inside the park.
Things To Know Before You Go
- Address: 7775 N Friant Rd, Fresno CA 93720
- Hours: Sunrise to sunset daily
- Admission:
- Dogs: Welcome on leash — off-leash at Woodward Dog Park only
- Horses: Equestrian Trail only
Cultural & Memorial Sites
Shinzen Friendship Garden
A 5-acre authentic Japanese garden. Best known for the Spring Blossom Festival and the Clark Bonsai Collection. Ideal for photography, quiet reflection, and cultural events.
Clark Bonsai Collection
Located inside Shinzen. World-class rotating displays of ancient bonsai trees — a unique look at living art.
Art of Life Healing Garden
Southeast corner near the lake. A sanctuary dedicated to those touched by cancer featuring the Survivor’s Grotto, intricate sculptures, and native plantings for healing and reflection. artoflifecancer.org/healing-garden
Survivor’s Grotto
A specific quiet reflection area within the Art of Life Healing Garden.
Fresno County Veterans Memorial
Near the park entrance. A dedicated space honoring local service members.
Rotary Amphitheater
The park’s main outdoor stage. Hosts large-scale concerts, festivals, and community events year-round.
Sports & Recreation
Woodward Legacy Disc Golf Course
18-hole championship course on the north side. Diverse terrain and elevation changes — welcoming to casual players and tournament competitors alike.
Mountain Bike Skills Course
Northeast section. Dirt obstacles, balance beams, and technical features for riders of all ages.
BMX Free Ride Course
North-central section. Jumps and freestyle lines for multiple skill levels — a hub for Fresno’s BMX community.
Multi-Use Activity Field
Large open grassy area in the center-east. Used for soccer, ultimate frisbee, and cross-country meets.
Fitness Parcourse
A series of outdoor exercise stations along segments of the paved trails.
Cross-Country Courses
Professionally mapped 5K and 10K courses — the premier venue for championship meets in Central California.
Woodward Dog Park
Fully fenced off-leash area near the Friant Road entrance. Separate sections for large and small dogs. Shaded seating for owners.
Trails
Lewis S. Eaton Trail
Paved multi-use trail — ideal for cyclists, runners, and strollers. Connects to the San Joaquin River Parkway for longer treks.
Thomas MacMichael Sr. Loop
Unpaved hiking trail through natural terrain. Quieter atmosphere with local flora and fauna up close.
Equestrian Trail
Horse-friendly soft-surface path along the San Joaquin riverbank. Separated from paved paths.
Scenic Points of Interest
Sunset View Point
Northwest corner at the park’s highest elevation. Unobstructed views of the San Joaquin River bluffs — best at golden hour. Favorite for photographers.
Lake View Point
Western side. Panoramic views of the main lake. Perfect for watching reflections or local fishermen.
Raptor Point
Eastern edge. Overlooks open fields where hawks and eagles hunt. Premier birding spot near river cottonwoods.
San Joaquin River Overlook
Wooden overlook platform on the northern edge. Clear views of the river and bluffs.
Redwood Grove
A small shaded stand of Sequoia trees near the southern end. Feels like a completely different ecosystem from the rest of the park.
Water Features
Main Lake
The park’s primary lake — a known birding hotspot. Home to wood ducks and occasional bald eagles.
Three Small Ponds
Scattered throughout the park — quiet spots for reflection and wildlife watching.
Duck Pond & Gazebo
Near the Shinzen Garden entrance. Popular for wedding photos and family gatherings.
Family & Gathering Spots
Redwood Shelter
The largest picnic pavilion — hub for large community events and gatherings.
Playground North
Primary children’s play structure near the north entrance.
C.A.S.T. for Kids Fishing Pier
Accessible pier on the main lake designed specifically for youth fishing.
Get Involved
Shinzen Garden Volunteer Program
Monthly volunteer days open to the public — one of Fresno’s best kept civic secrets. See volunteer schedule
Quick Facts
- Address: 7775 N Friant Rd, Fresno CA 93720
- Hours: Sunrise to sunset daily
- Admission:
- Dogs: Welcome on leash — off-leash at Woodward Dog Park only
- Horses: Equestrian Trail only
- Admission/ Parking: Free weekdays / paid weekends
The Full Guide
Ready to plan your visit? Read our complete Woodward Park guide — everything Fresno locals need to know. Read the full guide