About This Playground
🌳 Story Mill Park's playground is a modern, nature-inspired play area within Bozeman's 60-acre community park. It features unique play structures designed to blend with the natural environment while offering children diverse play experiences.
Visitor Experience: The playground at Story Mill Park consistently receives positive reviews, with visitors praising its innovative design, variety of play options, and integration with the surrounding natural landscape.>
More about this playground
Playground Type
Address
698 Bridger Dr, Bozeman, MT 59715, USA
Phone
(406) 582-2290
+1 406-582-2290
Coordinates
45.70114, -111.02636
Hours of Operation
Hours may vary during holidays. Please call ahead for confirmation.
Playground Features
Age Suitability
Designed for children of all ages with separate areas for toddlers (2-5) and older children (5-12), offering age-appropriate challenges and play experiences.
Equipment Available
Features natural wood climbing structures, rope courses, slides, swings, spinners, musical instruments, balance beams, and nature-inspired play elements.
Shaded Areas
Partial natural shade from trees strategically planted throughout the playground area, with some shade structures over select play areas.
Seating For Parents
Multiple benches and seating areas positioned around the playground providing good visibility of play areas.
Restroom Availability
Clean, modern restroom facilities located near the playground area.
Drinking Fountains
Several drinking fountains available, including accessible height options and bottle-filling stations.
Safety Accessibility
Fencing
The playground area is partially defined by natural landscaping rather than complete fencing, with strategic barriers near any hazardous areas.
Surface Material
Mix of engineered wood fiber mulch and rubberized surfaces in high-impact areas, providing good fall protection while maintaining a natural aesthetic.
Ada Accessibility
The playground includes accessible pathways, transfer platforms for equipment access, and several inclusive play features designed for children of all abilities.
Cleanliness Maintenance
Well-maintained with regular cleaning schedules, equipment checks, and prompt repairs when needed.
Additional Amenities
Nearby Parking
Ample free parking with designated accessible spaces close to the playground entrance.
Pet Policy
Dogs allowed in the park but must be leashed; not permitted within the playground area itself.
Bike Racks
Multiple bike racks available near the playground entrance and throughout the park.
Nearby Food Options
Picnic areas with tables near the playground; no food vendors in the park, but downtown Bozeman restaurants are approximately 1 mile away.
Sports Areas
The larger park includes sports fields, basketball courts, and open recreation spaces.
Walking / Biking Trails Nearby
Extensive network of paved and natural trails throughout the 60-acre park, connecting to the East Gallatin River and offering scenic wetland views.
Community Reviews
User Submitted Photos
Numerous photos show children enjoying the natural play elements and families appreciating the park's integration with Montana's landscape.
Recent Reviews
Visitors frequently comment on the playground's creative design, cleanliness, and how it encourages imaginative play in a natural setting.
Crowd Levels
Moderately busy on weekends and summer afternoons; rarely overcrowded due to the spacious design.
Special Events
Hosts seasonal community events, nature programs, and occasional children's activities organized by Bozeman Parks and Recreation.
User Experience
Entrance Fee
Free admission to the park and playground.
Space For Groups
Generous open areas adjacent to the playground suitable for birthday parties and group gatherings, with some reservable picnic shelters nearby.
Nature Connection
Exceptional integration with natural surroundings, featuring native plantings, views of the Bridger Mountains, and proximity to the East Gallatin River wetlands.
Noise Level
Moderate noise levels from children playing, but the open design and natural surroundings help buffer sound.
Aesthetic Design
Award-winning design that harmonizes with Montana's natural landscape using sustainable materials, earth tones, and nature-inspired play structures.
Safety Regulations
Security Presence
Regular park ranger patrols, especially during peak hours.
Rules Restrictions
Standard playground rules posted regarding age-appropriate use, adult supervision requirements, and prohibited activities.
First Aid Availability
First aid kits available at the main park office, with staff trained in basic first aid; emergency services can quickly access the playground area.
Community Interaction
Community Activities
Regular community programs including nature education events, seasonal celebrations, and family-friendly activities.
Social Interaction
Layout encourages cooperative play and social development with multiple children able to use structures simultaneously.
Sustainability Environment
Eco Friendly Practices
Designed with sustainable materials, native landscaping, and storm water management features that serve as educational opportunities.
Renewable Energy
Solar-powered lighting in some areas of the park, though not specifically at the playground.
Walkability Bike Access
Excellent connectivity to Bozeman's trail system with dedicated bike lanes on approaching roads and secure bike parking.
Reviews
Randi modin
9 months ago
So much space and the playgrounds are great. Had clean bathrooms and a community garden. There are covered picnic areas and uncovered tables as well. Lots of room for the whole family and get togethers
View on GoogleAmanda Hamell
5 years ago
Loved, loved, loved this park. The playground was awesome with lots of shade. Had a cute little toddler bike path area. Slides and swings. A climbing Boulder as well. My toddler loved the labryrinth even though one section was wet. We did not make it to the dog park area it was so large.
View on GoogleBarton Dobbs
a year ago
Great park close to town! My son had a ball on the slides, climbing walls, and various swings. *Also most of the park structures are under the big cottonwood trees so there is plenty of shade, which is nice.
View on GoogleDENIT33
2 years ago
Story Mill Community Park is 60 acres. The northern part of the park features an adventure playground, picnic pavilions, panoramic views, amphitheater, gardens and a future community center. The southern part of the park is a natural area with restored wetlands accessible by trails and walkways with bird and wildlife viewing opportunities.
View on GoogleBonne Hotmann
2 years ago
Wow! What a great park. Stopped here on a road trip, and my kids didn't want to leave! So much to do and so beautiful. Lots of shade too. Great trails, shelters, clean bathrooms, and nice layout.
View on Google