Russ Pitman Park

Russ Pitman Park is a lush 4-acre oasis in Bellaire, just inside the 610 Loop, offering individuals, families, and community groups a place to stroll, play, picnic, and explore nature. The Nature Discovery Center itself is housed in the historic Henshaw House at the north end of the Park.

The Park's mix of prairie grasses, tall pecans, native understory and wide lawns is home to a variety of animals, from butterflies and beetles to squirrels and birds. During spring and fall migration seasons, over 80 species of warblers, vireos, orioles and more stop in for food, rest and water - giving us a great opportunity to see and photograph them.

In addition to the resident wild animals, there is a rabbit hutch and a bob white quail cage near the Henshaw House, and an aviary with doves and pigeons near the fountain.

Come on over, enjoy the park, and see what we have to offer you and your family or community group!
 
Park hours are from 6 a.m. to 9:30 p.m. daily.

Russ Pitman Park is a City of Bellaire Park, so pets, alcoholic beverages, and smoking are not allowed on the grounds or in the parking lots.

Geocache in Russ Pitman Park

Visit this link to join in the hunt for the geocache recently added to Russ Pitman Park! Geocachers who have already made it to the cache have been rewarded with barred owl sightings and more during their time in the park! Bring your family, picnic in the park, and visit the Discovery Rooms before you leave.

Special places to check out during your next visit

Fountain – Rest and relax with the sound of falling water or peek into the pond for tadpoles, mosquito fish and snails.
 
Shady wetland - Look around – you might spot a turtle, frog or toad hiding in the water-loving vegetation. You're almost sure to spot aquatic insects and fish!

Herb Garden - Stop and smell the herbs. Rub the leaves gently and smell your fingertips. Can you find a plant that smells like lemon or licorice or chiclets?

Pocket Prairie - Wander through the tall grasses, enjoying the bright sunshine and colorful flowers that attract a myriad of insects, who, in turn, attract other animals. Imagine when this whole region was prairie….
  
Pavilions - Stop for a snack or lunch or just rest and watch the birds, bees and butterflies. It’s a great place for birthday parties, family get-togethers, even office picnics. You can also picnic on any of the lawns or eat and play at the playground.

Playground - A colorful pre-school playground complete with crawl tubes, monkey bars, slides, climbing ladders, rock walls, swings, and more. For elementary aged children, try the playground at Evergreen Park, just across the street. 

Beautiful Trails

Wildlife

Pocket Prairie