Craven Park was built in 1931, largely as a result of the efforts of supporters of Barrow RLFC, 500 of whom volunteered to construct the ground. The total cost of the building project came to £7,500 which was an unbelievable figure in those days.

The stadium was named after Commander G. W. Craven, a local war hero, who had started the appeal fund with a donation of £500. It should not be confused with Craven Park in Hull, another rugby league venue.