Located on Colvin Avenue in Albany, NY 12206, Frank T. Waterson Park, commonly known as Westland Hills Park, is one of the Capital Region’s best-kept secrets when it comes to family-friendly recreation and community engagement. Stretching across nearly 24 acres in Albany’s western corridor, this park is more than just a green space—it’s a well-rounded public resource offering playgrounds, athletic fields, dog-friendly zones, and year-round activities for all ages.
Surrounded by residential neighborhoods, schools, and small businesses, Waterson Park is an essential part of the Westland Hills area’s charm. Its central location, just a short drive from downtown Albany and easily accessible via public transit, makes it a popular gathering place for families, athletes, pet owners, and outdoor enthusiasts throughout the city.
A Park With Two Names and One Purpose
Though officially named Frank T. Waterson Park in honor of a dedicated local community leader and advocate for public recreation, the park is widely referred to by its original name: Westland Hills Park. This dual naming reflects both the personal legacy it honors and the neighborhood identity it continues to serve.
Frank T. Waterson was known for his commitment to youth sports and civic improvement, and naming the park after him ensures his contributions to Albany live on through daily enjoyment and community use.
Youth Sports at the Heart of the Park
One of the defining features of Westland Hills Park is its extensive sports facilities. The park serves as home to the Westland Hills Little League, which has operated for decades and provides organized baseball and softball opportunities for children of all ages.
The park features:
- Nine baseball and softball diamonds
- Two fields with stadium lighting for evening games
- Bleachers and shaded dugouts
- On-site concession stand during league events
Games are played throughout the spring, summer, and fall, often drawing families, neighbors, and fans from surrounding areas. The field layout allows for multiple games to occur simultaneously, giving the park a vibrant, festive atmosphere during tournament weekends.
From T-ball beginners to competitive youth teams, Westland Hills fosters a love of baseball and community from the first pitch to the final inning.
Playgrounds and Splash Pad Fun
Westland Hills Park is exceptionally well-designed for families with children. The modern playground features safe, durable equipment suited for toddlers, school-age kids, and preteens. Designed with both safety and creativity in mind, the area includes:
- Slides of various heights
- Climbing structures and jungle gyms
- Interactive panels and balancing elements
- Shaded picnic tables nearby for parents and guardians
In the summer months, the park’s splash pad becomes one of the most popular attractions. This water play zone includes sprinklers, spray cannons, and bubbling fountains that keep kids cool and entertained. Open seasonally and free to the public, it’s a great way for families to beat the Albany heat without leaving the city.
Dog Park and Pet-Friendly Perks
Pet owners in Albany are especially fond of Westland Hills Park for its fenced-in dog park, located on the western edge of the grounds. This well-maintained, off-leash area provides dogs a safe space to run, socialize, and stretch their legs.
Amenities at the dog park include:
- Separate zones for small and large breeds
- Benches and shaded areas for owners
- Dog waste stations for easy cleanup
- Double-gated entry for added security
It’s a great resource for local residents who want to give their pets outdoor time in a secure, sociable setting. The park’s pet-friendly design makes it a standout among Albany’s recreational areas.
Paths, Trails, and Open Space
Waterson Park isn’t all structured activities. The park features scenic walking trails that loop around the fields and weave through tree-lined sections of the property. These paths are popular with walkers, runners, and casual strollers who want to enjoy the beauty of Albany’s west end without venturing far from home.
The flat terrain, wide lanes, and natural shade make the park a go-to for:
- Morning joggers
- Afternoon dog walks
- After-dinner strolls
- Seniors seeking a comfortable, accessible walking route
There’s also ample green lawn space for casual sports, sunbathing, and picnics. On weekends, you’ll often see residents playing frisbee, tossing footballs, or relaxing under the trees with a book or a blanket.
Hosting Events and Seasonal Activities
Frank T. Waterson Park is a hub for community events and seasonal gatherings. The Westland Hills Little League regularly hosts opening day parades, skills clinics, and end-of-season parties at the park. Local organizations sometimes partner with the city to offer:
- Summer movie nights
- Outdoor yoga and fitness classes
- Youth sports camps and clinics
- School field days and cultural festivals
The park’s layout—with multiple parking areas, accessible walkways, and flexible-use spaces—makes it ideal for small to medium-sized events. Neighborhood block parties, fundraising events, and even political rallies have used the park as a friendly, community-centered venue.
Well-Maintained and Safe
Operated by the City of Albany Department of General Services, Frank T. Waterson Park is known for being well-kept, clean, and safe. City staff regularly mow the lawns, maintain the fields, and inspect play equipment for safety compliance.
Trash bins and recycling containers are located throughout the park, and the walking paths are plowed and salted during the winter to ensure year-round accessibility. Lighting is installed along key paths and fields, giving the park a secure atmosphere even in the early morning or evening hours.
Security patrols, combined with the park’s high visibility from Colvin Avenue and nearby residences, contribute to its reputation as a safe, family-friendly destination.
A Neighborhood Anchor
Waterson Park is more than a public park—it’s a neighborhood anchor, giving west Albany residents a place to come together, build relationships, and create memories. Whether it’s a first baseball game, a weekend picnic, or an afternoon on the splash pad, the experiences made here become part of the community’s collective memory.
With its easy access from I-90 and nearby roads like New Scotland Avenue and Western Avenue, the park is also convenient for families from neighboring communities like Guilderland, Bethlehem, and Colonie.
Final Thoughts
Frank T. Waterson Park, also widely known as Westland Hills Park, is a standout example of what urban parks can be: inclusive, vibrant, and centered on community needs. It brings together the best elements of city living—convenience, accessibility, and variety—with the restorative benefits of nature and outdoor activity.
Whether you’re chasing your dog through the off-leash area, watching your child hit a home run, or enjoying a peaceful walk at sunset, this Colvin Avenue park delivers something for everyone. It’s a testament to Albany’s investment in public spaces and a model for how parks can enrich urban life.
If you find yourself in Albany and want to experience a true local gem, make your way to Frank T. Waterson Park—where community, recreation, and nature come together in the best possible way.
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