Russ Pitman Park

Russ Pitman Park is a peaceful 4-acre park nestled just inside the 610 Loop within the City of Bellaire (see map). The park is an oasis within the sprawl of the city, offering individuals, families, and community groups a place to relax, play and learn about nature. Park hours are from 6:00am to 9:30pm. Because Russ Pitman Park is a City of Bellaire Park, pets, alcoholic beverages, and smoking are not allowed on the grounds or in the parking lots.

The Nature Discovery Center is located within the historic Henshaw House, a prominent feature at the north end of the park.

The additional features highlighted below are just some of the jewels of our park.

Wildlife - A variety of animals are attracted to the refuge and resources provided by the park. Please visit our Discover Nature Pages to see some of the animals you may encounter here.

The Nature Center's Outdoor Animals - We keep one or two rabbits, and a Bobwhite Quail named Bob, in hutches next to the Henshaw House for visitors to see and for staff to bring on visits to classes, camps and library groups. Please stop by and see them ... they love it when kids come by!

Fountain & Fish Pond - Right along the main path through the park you'll find a soothing fountain. Have a seat on a nearby bench and listen to the water falling into the pond below. Most visitors, especially the young ones, can't resist a peek into the pond for tadpoles, mosquitofish and godfish.

The Bog - At the other end of the park, just off the flagstone path, you'll find a small bog where you might spot a turtle, frog or toad hiding in the water-loving vegetation. You're almost sure to spot squatic insects and fish!

Our Pocket Prairie- In the sunny area to the East of the main path through the park, you'll find a small "pocket prairie" with native Texas coastal prairie plants. This small prairie planting resembles the assemblage of plants that would have been here long before people lived in Bellaire and Russ Pitman Park was developed.

Plantlife - The gardens around the Henshaw House have been planted with hummingbirds, butterflies and other pollinators in mind. You'll find lots of flowers of different colors and shapes and sizes that pollinators find attractive. The native wildflower garden was planted out back this winter. Check it out on your next visit to see how the plants are growing. For pictures of some of the plants you'll find in the park see our Discover Nature pages.

Herb Garden - Take a moment to stop and smell the herbs in the herb garden behind the Henshaw House. Kids love to rub the leaves gently and smell their fingers. See if you can find a plant that smells like lemon or one that smells like licorice candy. There are lots of other wonderful aromas that await you!

Trails - Flagstone, brick and mulch trails meander through Russ Pitman Park. Take a leisurely walk in the shade of the pecan trees or just rest a while on a park bench and watch the local wildlife.

Playground - A modern playground complete with crawl tubes, monkeybars, a slide, climbing ladders, rock walls, and more is located at the south end of Russ Pitman Park at the corner of Evergreen and Newcastle. Unfortunately there was a fire at the playground in April of 2008. Hopefully it will be available for use again soon. The play area also includes swings and a sandbox. For a change of pace once you know this playground, you might try the playground at Evergreen Park just across the street.

		Picnic spaces - There are several meadows and lawns throughout the park and around the Henshaw House where you might throw a blanket and have a quiet picnic. However, if you don?t have a blanket or just want up off the ground try one of the many picnic tables conveniently located throughout the park. In case of rain, or if you prefer a little more shade, try out the covered pavilions that are located behind the Henshaw House. Note that these pavilions can be reserved for parties. For more information about pavilion party reservations, check out our facilities and Birthday Party links then call 713-667-6550.

Come on over, enjoy the park, and see what we have to offer you and your family or your community group!