Park of the Month: South Valley Park

South Valley Park is one of Montgomery Village’s largest parks, with the parking area located at 19003 Watkins Mill Road. The 32-acre park includes Dr. Gordon W. Bowie Music Pavilion, lighted athletic fields, a playground, creeks, ponds, picnic areas, gazebos, footbridges, paved paths and a restroom and concession stand that is open during events.

The athletic field at South Valley Park was renovated in 2018. The athletic field, which is host to a large amount of sporting events, was in less an ideal condition due to years of use, incorrect grading and various other issues. For part of 2018, the field was taken out of service to have an irrigation system installed, to be regraded and to install Bermudagrass for the field’s playing surface. The field reopened for reserved use later that summer.

The new grass type and renovations have created an ideal playing field for a variety of sports and MVF staff is excited to see residents using the field for the 2019 season. This field is by permit use only or for other MVF approved events. Applications to reserve the field can be found online at www.montgomeryvillage.com.

One of the unique and popular features of this park is the Dr. Gordon W. Bowie Music Pavilion. The pavilion was named after Dr. Gordon W. Bowie who was the director of the Montgomery Village Community Band from 1999 until 2012, when he lost his battle with cancer. The pavilion was dedicated in his honor on June 17, 2012. Dr. Gordon W. Bowie Music Pavilion hosts a variety of events and programs throughout the year, including the Flashlight Egg Hunt during the month of April. During the summer months the pavilion is home to Montgomery Village’s series “Summers at South Valley Park.” More information on the summer schedule of free activities can be found at www.montgomeryvillage.com/events/summers-south-valley-park.

In addition, the park offers a unique playground (installed in 2008) with activities for a variety of ages. The playground features a track ride, swings, a variety of climbers and selection of other fun features. Picnic tables can be found along various walking paths throughout the park. The park is a great place to spend some time on a weekend to enjoy a concert and the natural surroundings.