Bend of the River is Temple's only park on the Leon River

The Reuben D. Talasek Bend of the River park is a 30-acre piece of land on the Leon River, and it came to the city the old-fashioned way: Bernice Talasek and her family donated it to Temple in 2011 in memory of Reuben Talasek. It is the only City of Temple park property that actually touches the river.

The land has a history of its own. Over the years it hosted civic gatherings and family events, and that sense of a gathering place on the water is part of what makes it worth knowing about. For a city where most parkland sits well back from any river, having one spot that opens onto the Leon is its own kind of amenity.

Because it is a special property rather than a standard neighborhood park, public access and event use can be limited or by arrangement. Check the Temple Parks page for current access, rental rules, and any closures before you plan a visit.