South Bend Park

Natural Features

Found in the Lakewood Heights neighborhood of Southeast Atlanta, South Bend Park spreads across a generous 76.6 acres of land. The park features a blend of recreational spaces and forest areas that make you momentarily forget you're still in the city.

At the heart of the park flows a South River tributary stream, cutting through the landscape like a natural divider. The stream's cascades are an unexpected feature within Atlanta's city limits. These water features create a soothing soundtrack for your hike through the park trails.

The park is alive with nature's residents. Keep your eyes peeled for bright cardinals flitting between trees, or if you're observant (and a bit lucky), you might spot eastern box turtles or deer tracks marking the soft ground along the paths.

Restoration and Conservation

The western section of South Bend Park, which represents the main entrance for most visitors, has seen quite the transformation in recent years. Trees Atlanta is working with the Friends of South Bend Park and the City of Atlanta to remove invasive plants like kudzu and replace them with native species.

This isn't just about making the park prettier - though that's definitely a perk. The ongoing restoration aims to boost the park's ecological health, expand Atlanta's precious tree canopy, and create a more natural, enjoyable space for everyone who visits.

Trail Connections

South Bend Park connects to the Southtowne PATH trail, a 2.7-mile network weaving through South Atlanta. This makes the park a gateway to even more recreational possibilities for walkers, joggers, and cyclists.

The trail features a winding paved path with curves and elevation changes that provide a good workout. Most sections are shaded by a generous tree canopy, keeping things comfortable even during Georgia's warmer months. For those wanting to explore further, the trail also links up with Swann Nature Preserve, effectively expanding your adventure options.

Recreational Facilities

South Bend Park doesn't skimp on recreational options. Multiple playgrounds are scattered across the grounds, including smaller play areas that you'll discover along the trail system.

Sports enthusiasts will appreciate the variety of facilities: basketball courts, tennis courts, baseball fields, and soccer fields cover all the bases for team and individual activities. When summer heat hits, the public swimming pool becomes the neighborhood hotspot for families looking to cool down.

Amenities

Within the park, you'll find several covered pavilions equipped with tables and benches - perfect spots for anything from a simple picnic to larger family gatherings or community events. These areas are well-maintained and offer welcome shade on sunny days.

Note that while parking is available, spaces can disappear quickly during busy times and special events. If you're planning something with a group, arriving early is your best bet. As for restrooms, they're located near the pool area, but be aware they might only be accessible when the pool is open for the season.

Pet-Friendly Features

South Bend Park features a dedicated dog park where dogs can run free in a secure environment. The dog park offers plenty of shade and ample space for canine exercise and socialization.

Beyond this designated area, leashed pets are welcome around the park's trails and grassy spaces, making this a go-to destination if you're looking for a scenic place to walk your dog that you'll both enjoy.