Woodward Park

The late Ralph Woodward, a long-time Fresno resident, bequeathed the major portion of his estate in 1968 to provide a regional park and bird sanctuary in Northeast Fresno on the South bank of the San Joaquin River between Highway 41 and Friant Road. The initial 235 acres, combined with additional acres acquired later by the City brings the park to an amazing 300 acres. Now packed with amenities, Woodward Park is the only Regional Park of its size in the Central Valley.

The Southeast corner of the park harbors numerous bird species offering bird enthusiasts an excellent opportunity for viewing. The park has a multi-use amphitheatre that seats up to 2,500 people (to reserve, call (559) 621-2900), authentic Japanese Garden, fenced dog park, two-mile equestrian trail, exercise par course, three children's playgrounds, a lake, 3 small ponds, 7 picnic areas (with barbecues, electricity and water fountains) and five miles of multipurpose trails that are part of the San Joaquin River Parkway’s Lewis S. Eaton Trail. When complete, the Lewis S. Eaton trail system will cover 22 miles between Highway 99 and Friant Dam. The park also has many uncovered picnic tables that are available on a first come, first-served basis!

There are six shelters throughout the park, each with 7 tables seating 25-30 people per table accommodating a maximum of 210 people for the entire shelter. These tables may be reserved for a half day (7:00AM - 2:00PM or 3:00PM - 10:00PM) for $12.50 each or a whole day (7:00AM - 10:00PM) for $25 each.

Additionally, a seventh shelter, the Gazebo, has 6 tables accommodating a maximum 60 people for the entire shelter. The Gazebo is $60.00 for a whole day and $30.00 for a half day.

Weddings in the Shin Zen Garden may only be held in the grass area at the back of the Garden near the rear gate. The area is shaded by large pines and will accommodate a maximum of 200 people. The area is backed by an attractive wooden fence with a gate suitable for the bride's entry. The fence separates the Garden from a service road and small parking area (several cars only). It would be possible to use this area for a recreational vehicle or access for a delivery vehicle. Two electrical outlets with a combined capacity of 20 amps are near the fence line. Weddings may be scheduled on weekends or holiday mornings from 8 a.m. until 10 a.m. All reservations are first come, first served and must be made in person at the Parks Division Office at 2326 Fresno St., Rm. 101 at least 30 days in advance. No reservations will be accepted more than one year in advance of the wedding date. Fees for weddings in the Shin Zen Garden are necessary to provide the added maintenance and security required to accommodate these group events.

The Fees are: $250.00 (for the first 100 people): or $500.00 (for 101-200 people) Maximum of 200 people.

Weddings can also be held free of charge in the Redwood Glen Area, this area is south of the parking lot to the Japanese Garden.

Photograghers may take photos in the Japanese Gardens for Weddings and/or other events such as graduations, family pictures, and Quincineras, etc. The current charge is $25.00 for one professional photo / per day / per one hour session.

The park is open April through October, 6am to 10pm and November through March, 6am to 7pm. ADMISSION is $3.00 per vehicle, No Charge during the Winter months Monday through Friday, except for Weekends and selective Holidays.