The first half was largely uneventful apart from one glaring miss and an outstanding free-kick.
The culprit for one of the misses of the season was Burnley leading scorer Steven Fletcher, who managed to miss the target from only six yards out after winger Wade Elliott had dispossessed central defender Zat Knight.
The one piece of quality in the opening 45 minutes came from Matt Taylor, who scored with a stunning free-kick from the inside right channel which left Clarets goalkeeper Brian Jensen grasping at think air.
However, a fine save from Jensen prevented striker Ivan Klasnic from adding to the lead.
The second period was a different story however as the home side at last found their passing game and went on to create numerous opportunities.
Indeed midfielder Kevin McDonald was most unfortunate not to equalise with a fine left-foot shot from 20 yards which beat Jussi Jaaskelainen, but cannoned back off the underside of the crossbar.
A fine run down the left by Chris Eagles in which he beat two defenders set up another chance for Fletcher but he blazed over the crossbar.
Owen Coyle's side did manage to equalise when Elliott's cross was converted from close range by the head of David Nugent.
Eagles and Fletcher both drove wide of the target as the home side pressed hard for a winner, but goalkeeper Jaaskelainen was in outstanding form saving well from Nugent after the striker had been set up by Eagles and then saving from Eagles himself after the winger had controlled the ball well with his chest.
Nugent did have a great chance to win the game for the Clarets when he robbed Knight of possession, but shot wide with only Jaaskelainen to beat.
Burnley were almost made to pay for their generosity when Bolton substitute Mark Davies received a pass from Kevin Davies but pulled his shot wide of the target.
Burnley have now not won since the end of October but no doubt boss Coyle will feel that if they can continue to create chances the inevitable victory will follow.
Wanderers manager Gary Megson continues to have a love-hate relationship with the fans who once again questioned the use of his substitutes.