Allen Pond Park facts for kids
Quick facts for kids Allen Pond Park |
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The Allen Pond Gazebo
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| Type | Urban park |
| Location | Bowie, Maryland |
| Area | 85 acres (34 ha) |
| Founder | James Allen |
| Managed by | City of Bowie, Maryland |
| Open | All year |
Allen Pond Park is a large, fun park in Bowie, Maryland. It covers about 85 acres, which is like 64 football fields! The City of Bowie manages this amazing park. It's a great spot for people of all ages to enjoy outdoor activities.
The park has many cool things to do. You can go ice skating at the Ice Arena or watch shows at the Amphitheater. There's also a Skate Park for skateboarders. If you love being on the water, you can rent a boat on the pond.
Allen Pond Park is also home to Opportunity Park. This special area is designed for everyone. It has playgrounds, a fitness area, and even fishing spots that are 100% accessible. This means kids and adults with different abilities can easily enjoy them.
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Fun Things to Do at the Park
Allen Pond Park is packed with activities. You'll find something fun to do no matter what you like!
Sports and Games
- Ballfields: There are six lighted fields for baseball or softball. You can play day or night!
- Basketball: A lighted court is perfect for a game with friends.
- Fitness Station: Stay active and get some exercise outdoors.
Relaxing and Exploring
- Picnic Areas: Enjoy a meal with your family or friends at one of the picnic spots. Some even have pavilions for shade.
- Trails: Walk or bike along the scenic trails. They are great for exploring the park's natural beauty.
- Playgrounds: Kids can have a blast at several playground areas.
Allen Pond: The Heart of the Park
| Allen Pond | |
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 Allen Pond
Location in Maryland
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| Location | Prince George's County |
| Coordinates | 38°56′01″N 76°44′23″W / 38.9334803°N 76.7398567°W |
| Type | Reservoir |
| Primary outflows | Collington Branch |
| Surface area | 10 acres (40,000 m2) |
| Surface elevation | 112 feet (34 m) |
Allen Pond is a 10-acre lake right in the middle of the park. It's a man-made lake, which means people created it. The pond is a great place for fishing.
Fishing at the Pond
Many people enjoy fishing at Allen Pond. You can often catch fish like bass and crappie here. It's a fun way to spend a quiet afternoon.
In the past, there were some exciting rumors about unusual fish in the pond. In 1993, a few people reported catching Piranhas! One was even said to be over 11 inches long. These were likely pet fish that someone released, as piranhas are not native to Maryland.
Park History
The land where Allen Pond Park now stands has an interesting history. It was once owned by a farmer named James Allen. He and his family used the land to raise cattle and grow tobacco.
James Allen was the one who created the pond. He made it a place where people could come to fish. He even sold yearly passes for ten dollars so people could enjoy fishing there.
In 1965, James Allen sold his land to a company called Levitt & Sons. This company was building the community of Belair at Bowie. When he sold the land, Mr. Allen asked that the pond and the area around it be turned into a park for everyone in the community to enjoy. His wish came true!
The Robert V. Setera Amphitheater was built in the park in the late 1960s. This outdoor stage has been a place for performances and events ever since.
