Playing outdoor pickleball is a fun way to get exercise and enjoy some friendly competition. If you’re looking for places to play pickleball outdoors near your location, there are a few things to consider. This guide will overview the best places to play outdoor pickleball and things to look for when choosing a location.
Local Parks
Many city and county parks now have designated pickleball courts for public use. This is often the most convenient and affordable option for outdoor pickleball near you.
What to Look For
When checking your local parks, look for the following:
- Multiple pickleball courts – more courts means more chances to play!
- Courts with pickleball lining – makes it clear the space is designed for the sport.
- Courts in good condition – check for cracks, fencing, etc.
- Net height set for pickleball – should be 36 inches at the sidelines.
- Nearby parking, bathrooms, water fountains.
- Shaded areas if playing in warmer climates.
- Posted pickleball play hours and rules.
Finding Local Park Courts
Not sure what parks near you might have pickleball courts? Try these tips:
- Search online for “pickleball near me” and your city/town name
- Check websites and social media pages for your local parks department
- Call the parks department office to ask if any parks have courts
- Drive by parks near your home to check for courts
- Ask pickleball-playing friends which public parks they use
With thousands of new pickleball courts being built nationwide, there’s a good chance parks in your area already have courts or are planning to add them soon. Get out and explore your local parks to discover new places to play outdoor pickleball close to home.
Community and Recreation Centers
Indoor and outdoor pickleball courts are often available at community centers, senior centers, YMCAs, JCCs, schools, and other recreation facilities.
Benefits of Playing Here
Some key advantages these centers offer:
- Reliable court availability for pickleball
- Equipment provided like paddles and balls
- Lessons or training programs
- Leagues and tournaments
- Consistent Court Conditions – usually indoors
- Restrooms and other amenities on site
Finding a Community Center for Pickleball
Start your search here:
- Check center websites for court listings and pickleball programs
- Call or visit to ask if they offer pickleball and outdoor access
- Search for pickleball leagues to find where they play
- Ask other players where they’ve found courts
While community centers may charge membership or court fees, they provide a structured place to learn, practice, and play with other pickleball enthusiasts.
Tennis Facilities
Many tennis clubs and stadiums are converting some tennis courts for dedicated pickleball use. Tennis courts have the same dimensions as pickleball courts, so the conversion is simple.
What to Look For
When checking tennis facilities for pickleball options, see if they offer:
- Permanent pickleball net set-ups and lining
- Designated pickleball court times
- Pickleball programs or lessons
- Courts in good repair (cracks, fencing)
- Adequate lighting for evening play
- Nearby amenities like parking, bathrooms, etc.
Finding Tennis Facilities with Pickleball Courts
Search for pickleball at these types of locations:
- Public and private tennis clubs
- Hotel tennis courts
- Tennis academies and stadiums
- School tennis courts
- HOA tennis courts
- Country club tennis facilities
Call ahead to see if converted pickleball courts are available for public play or if membership fees apply. Tennis centers offer excellent existing infrastructure at your disposal for outdoor pickleball.
Outdoor Pickleball Complexes
Dedicated outdoor pickleball complexes with multiple courts in one location are popping up across the country. These complexes cater to passionate pickleball players looking for full-time outdoor courts.
What Pickleball Complexes Offer
Look for these features at dedicated outdoor pickleball facilities:
- 8+ pickleball courts in one spot
- Permanent nets, fencing, and lining
- Restrooms, water, and shelter on site
- Programs, lessons, leagues, tournaments
- Reserved court time or memberships
- Strategic lighting for evening play
- Nearby parking and amenities
Finding a Pickleball Complex Near You
- Search for “pickleball complex near me”
- Look for complexes at sports centers and stadiums
- Check city and county parks for designated facilities
- Search pickleball websites and forums for recommendations
- Ask other local players if they know of any complexes
The excitement over pickleball has led to more and more dedicated complexes being built. Search in your area to find full-service outdoor pickleball facilities.
Schools and Universities
From elementary schools to major universities, you can find outdoor pickleball courts on educational campuses as the sport grows in popularity.
What to Look For
School and university pickleball courts may offer these advantages:
- Multiple outdoor courts in one spot
- Existing sports infrastructure to utilize
- Restrooms, parking, etc. on campus
- Ability to reserve courts
- Inter-school league and tournament play
Accessing Campus Courts
Options for accessing outdoor school pickleball facilities:
- Enroll in pickleball classes if offered
- Join school recreation programs with court time
- See if courts are open to public during certain hours
- Ask about reserving courts as an alum or community member
- Check if courts host pickleball leagues or meets
Connecting with school and university athletic departments can provide structured opportunities for outdoor pickleball through their facilities.
HOA and Retirement Communities
Homeowners associations and 55+ retirement communities often include pickleball in their amenities to appeal to active adults and seniors.
What to Look For
See if HOA or retirement communities in your area offer:
- Dedicated outdoor pickleball courts
- Pick-up games and leagues
- Lessons from resident experts
- Social mixers centered around pickleball
- Courts properly equipped for play
- Nearby parking and amenities
Accessing HOA & Retirement Community Courts
Options for using their outdoor pickleball courts:
- Move into the community
- See if they allow any public play
- Accompany a resident member
- Join their pickleball club as a non-resident
- Reserve courts as a guest for a nominal fee
The popularity of pickleball makes it a sought-after amenity in these communities, so take advantage if you can access their facilities as a resident or guest.
Outdoor Pickleball Court Care Tips
Once you find a suitable outdoor pickleball court near you, you’ll want to help keep it in top playing condition. Here are some tips:
- Abide by posted court rules and play hours
- Avoid play immediately after rain storms
- Keep wheels, chairs, etc. off court surface
- Report any cracks, holes or other surface issues
- Keep area clean – take all trash after playing
- Be careful not to spill food, drinks on court
- Help facilities maintain nets if able
- Alert staff if nets need height adjustment
- Follow posted guidelines for court reservations
Taking good care of outdoor pickleball courts will help ensure they remain an enjoyable place for you and others to play the game for years to come!
Conclusion
Pickleball’s growing popularity has led to more and more designated outdoor courts at parks, community centers, tennis facilities, schools, and dedicated complexes. With some research and planning, you can find great options to play outdoor pickleball right in your own neighborhood. Just grab your paddle and head out to enjoy this fun sport!