Picnic sites are booked on a first-come, first-served basis.
For booking times see the Picnic Site Booking FAQ.
Please view the Picnic Site Amenities for details about each site's amenities, capacities, fees, power outlets, washroom accessibility and more.
Dogs are allowed in the park if they are on a leash, or in off-leash areas.
Alcohol is permitted only in designated areas which are clearly signed. Alcohol is strictly prohibited in all areas of the park.
Bowness Park cannot be booked on long weekends due to the high volume of citizens using the Park.
Picnic Site and Special Events Application Information
Picnic Site vs. Special Event
Picnics: Gatherings using the existing picnic site amenities (picnic tables, fire pit, barbeque, pavilion/shelter or power) or back-yard propane BBQs.
Special events: Events that have an impact on neighbouring communities and require equipment brought to the park (tents, inflatables, large BBQs, vehicle access, etc).
Weekend or weekday bookings - must be made 5 days before the booking.
Picnic sites cannot be reserved without payment.
Picnic Site Payment Information
Full payment is due immediately upon booking.
Once full payment has been made, you will be issued a permit and a receipt. Your permit is your confirmation of your picnic site booking. Bring the issued permit with you to the site as confirmation of your booking as sites can be used on a first-come, first-served basis if not booked. A facility rental permit holder will always have priority over a non-permit holder, for the specific date, time and location booked.
Cancellations and amendments require a minimum of 7 calendar days’ notice prior to the rental date.
A $10.00 administration fee plus applicable GST will apply for cancellations or changes that result in freeing up a bookable space.
Within 7 calendar days of the booking, it is non-refundable.
To cancel a booking, logon to Calgary Live and Play to use the self-serve option online. Contact Facility Bookings if you require assistance or you do not have a Calgary Live and Play account.
In order to amend a picnic site booking, make changes to the date, time or location, the renter must notify the Recreation Facility Bookings office.
Inclement weather refunds are not provided. It is the permit holder’s responsibility to check the upcoming weather forecast at least 8 days before the event to decide if you wish to keep or cancel a booking.