Watson Park — Attraction in San Jose

Overall not the worst park, but still needs some maintenance after the flood. 3 separate parking lots (one by the school, one in the middle by basket ball courts, and another in the back by dog park/soccer field) 2 playgrounds, basket ball hoops, soccer fields (not sure how open they are to the public though) and a dog park with separate sides for big and small dogs.

DOG PARK: Finally open after the flood! The dog parks are big, but not maintained (even before the flood) big dog side is basically all dirt, and there's ALWAYS a mud puddle close by to the water (which means yes, your dog dog IS going to get dirty, whether they actually play in the puddle or not), Never any poop bags. But, there are 2 tables and benches in the front and back of the park (front has a little shade) and even more benches along the side, as well as a water fountain that you have to keep pushing every time your dog wants water, as well as a faucet on the far side. Someone has left a metal bowl at each fountain as of 8/11/17. Other people are usually pretty good about watching their dogs (there's a always someone that doesn't though :/ ) but won't ask before bringing small dogs to the big side or vice versa. Hope your dog isn't aggressive depending on size. so overall as long as you bring your own poop bags and dont mind your dog getting dirty, it's a great spacious park for you and your dog.

MAIN PARK: Also not maintained after the flood, the grass is terrible to walk in, but everything else is still good. Trash cans along the perimeter of the park and by the playground and basket ball courts. Fairly clean bathrooms for a public park, and working water fountains. Usually see some shady people in the middle parking lot that will just hang out there for hours, if you're going alone just be aware of your surroundings. Basketball courts and playground usually packed by about 7pm everyday. Walkers around the big circle pavement and joggers in the small circle pavement (no rule saying you have to do this,...

I would have liked to give this park a higher rating for its spacious dog parks. However, I felt very uncomfortable even letting my dog off leash in the large dog park because there were two adults smoking in the enclosed dog area and no dogs besides mine.

Things I would like to see in renovations: Rules posted clearly that prohibit people from (a) smoking in the dog area and kids areas (b) people loitering in the dog park without their own dog. Post a phone number of who to call to report people breaking park rules and regulations. Better lighting for later evening dog play. More...

This dog park has a lot going for it. Running water, benches, and even a small amount of shade. The dogs we've met are nice. The ground is dead grass and dirt, but I was told artificial grass is coming in November. Down sides... Not enough shade, the freeway is RIGHT THERE, and there is a homeless encampment just off the side. I couldn't see it from the park, but was told they'll come out and take stuff. Lights at night would be nice.

Separate parks for large and small dogs, and sturdy fences and gates are a plus. I'll check back when I'm near it with...