Jastro Park facts for kids

Jastro Park is a public park located in Bakersfield, California. It was built on two city blocks at the corner of Truxtun Avenue and Elm Street. This park is in an area of Bakersfield called Westchester. It's a great place for families and friends to have fun outdoors!

The Story of Jastro Park

Jastro Park first opened in 1917. The land for the park was given by a company called the Kern County Land Company.

How the Park Got Its Name

In 1925, a kind person named Henry A. Jastro helped make the park beautiful. He donated many plants and trees. This is why the park is named after him! You can even find a special plaque there that remembers his gift.

The Outdoor Stage

In 1927, Mr. Jastro also gave money for an outdoor stage, called an amphitheater. It was designed by Charles H. Biggar. Jastro Park's amphitheater is one of three open-air stages in Bakersfield. The other two are at Beale Park and Jefferson Park. Jastro Park's stage is special because it doesn't have built-in seats for the audience.

Park Improvements Over Time

Since 1927, Jastro Park has gotten many cool updates. Two picnic areas were added that you can reserve for parties. There are also many other picnic spots for smaller groups.

A swimming pool was built, which was used by the Bakersfield High School swim team. Several outdoor sports courts were also added.

In 2004, a new aquatics center opened in downtown Bakersfield. Around that time, many park pools, including the one at Jastro Park, needed repairs. The city decided to remove the pool at Jastro Park instead of fixing it. The old pool was replaced with a fun spray park where kids can cool off!

What Can You Do at Jastro Park?

Jastro Park is one of the best-equipped parks in Bakersfield. There are so many things to do!

Picnic Areas and Barbecues

The park has two picnic areas that you can reserve for events.

• One area can fit 128 people. It has lights, two barbecues, and a covered serving table.
• The other area can fit 80 people. It also has lights, two barbecues, and an uncovered serving table.

There are also many smaller picnic spots for 8 or 16 people. Each of these has its own barbecue.

Sports and Games

If you love sports, Jastro Park has a lot to offer:

• One lit basketball court.
• Six lit tennis courts, each with a seat for an umpire.
• Two lit horseshoe pits.

There are also poles for a volleyball net and open grassy areas. These are perfect for playing all sorts of lawn games.

Fun for Everyone

The park also has clean restrooms, a fun playground, and the awesome spray park. The outdoor amphitheater has a stage and a large, flat space. This area is great for performances or even dancing!