Recreation

Thanks to an ideal climate and a dynamic Parks, Recreation and Community Services Department, the Fresno area is a virtual playground.

Two of the 47 parks in Fresno are regional parks that offer plenty of opportunities for a myriad of
outdoor activities, as well as unique settings that offer a picturesque backdrop for weddings and other special occasions.

Woodward Park encompasses 300 acres, and includes the Rotary Amphitheater – which seats up to 2,500 people for outdoor entertainment. In addition to the scenic equestrian trails and walking paths, the park is home to the stunning Shinzen Japanese Gardens – a popular spot for outdoor weddings.

Roeding Park features a fishing lake, a Japanese war memorial, the Chaffee Zoo, Rotary playland and Storyland – making it a favorite with residents and tourists of all ages. Roeding also provides for numerous outdoor activities, and the Pergola area of the park is also perfect for weddings.

The 26,000-square foot Lions Den Skate Park at Lions Park is one of the newest additions to the long list of Parks Department offerings. Visitors here will also find baseball and softball fields, volleyball and tennis courts and a children’s play area.

The Parks, Recreation and Community Services Department oversees seven community centers. Strategically located throughout town, these centers offer a wide range of activities, programs and community services for all residents. Programs and activities include arts & crafts, physical fitness, sports, day games and special events (such as dances, field trips and holiday activities).

Four large swimming pools (Airways, Mosqueda, Ivy Neighborhood and Frank H. Ball) make a big splash with all ages. Reservations are accepted for pool parties, barbeques, birthday parties and company picnics.

For those who enjoy a day on the links, Fresno offers three municipal golf courses (Airways, Riverside and Palm Lakes), and all three have 18 holes, a driving range, putting greens and coffee shops.

Other local courses include Brighton Crest Golf Course and Country Club. Located 20 miles north of Fresno, this semi-private club is rated among the top 10 courses in California. Fig Garden’s 18 holes offer a scenic round, while Riverbend Golf Course follows the natural contours of the San Joaquin River. Fresno West Golf Course and Country Club is 15 miles southwest of Fresno County in Kerman, and Sherwood Forest Golf Course (20 minutes east of Fresno in Sanger) offers great golf and beautiful views of the Kings River.

If walking or biking are favorite pastimes, there are two beautiful trails. Lewis Eaton Trail is four miles of pathways perfect for jogging, walking, cycling and horseback riding. Benches adorn the paths, and trail patrons can see the Sierra Mountains on a clear day. The Sugar Pine Trail boasts nearly 4,500 trees planted by 3,000 volunteers – setting a Guinness World Record. The paved trails accommodate skaters, bikers, walkers, cyclists and horseback riders.

Camp Fresno at Dinkey Creek is perfect for families and friends who enjoy the wilderness. Located along the Sierra Nevada Mountains approximately 60 miles east of Fresno, the city-run camp is a family oriented facility that offers 51 rental cabins, along with swimming, boating, fishing, hiking and horseback riding.

The Parks, Recreation and Special Services Department also sponsors a host of year-round activities designed for all ages, including summer day camps, after-school recreation programs, sports teams, youth clubs, science programs, playground programs and swim classes. There are also nutrition programs and activities designed especially for senior citizens.

Numerous independent and privately-run clubs, organizations and organized team sports are also available.