The Bainbridge Island Parks & Trails Foundation was formed under the leadership of former Bainbridge Park District Director, Chuck Field. The first volunteer Board of Directors were elected into office on June 5, 1997. Upon incorporation as a nonprofit organization, BIPF partnered with local agency One Call For All and awarded the first round of grants for local community groups in 1998. In that time, the Parks & Trails Foundation has served as Fiscal Sponsor for specific parks projects initiated by Bainbridge Islanders, including the original KidsUp! playground at Battle Point Park and the Yeomalt Cabin restoration.

In the fall of 2014, with donor vision and support, the Parks Foundation hired its first Executive Director, and brought on new Board Directors to expand Parks & Trails Foundation programming.

The Bainbridge Island Parks & Trails Foundation now supports and expands recreational opportunities for all on Bainbridge Island. The Foundation facilitates trail acquisition and maintenance, supports parkland stewardship, provides fiscal-sponsorship for community-led park projects, and continues to grant support for capital improvement projects for recreational activities.