The bullet hit the teen in the groin at about 7:30 Friday night at DiNapoli Park in Canarsie.
Police spent the evening searching the playground for any clues they could find in the shooting.
The victim was rushed to Brookdale Hospital, where he is in stable condition.
The shooting happened on a basketball court near East 92nd Street and Seaview Avenue.
Neighbors believe this is an isolated incident, saying this is a safe and quiet area.
"It's terrible, never had any incidents like that. I've been here for 7, 8 years," said Jason Mills, a resident.
"I jog in the park. It's a beautiful park with lots of activities, never any problems," said Allan Joseph, a resident.
Witnesses tell police the shooter was wearing a blue hooded sweatshirt.