By Milton Kirby | Atlanta, GA | March 18, 2025

DeKalb County, Georgia, is home to an extensive network of parks, recreational centers, and performing arts facilities, offering its residents a diverse range of opportunities for fitness, leisure, and cultural engagement. With 113 parks spanning 1,728.5 acres, the county ensures that nearly every neighborhood can access green spaces, many within walking distance of the neighbors they serve, fostering a strong sense of community and well-being.

Neighborhood Parks and Walkable Recreation

Many of DeKalb’s parks are easily accessible on foot via sidewalks and bike paths, making outdoor recreation an effortless part of daily life. These small, walkable neighborhood parks provide a tranquil escape for residents seeking solitude, exercise, or social gatherings. Larger parks, such as Sugar Creek Golf Course (310 acres), Mystery Valley Golf Course (265 acres), and Wade Walker Park (176 acres), offer extensive facilities for sports, golf, and outdoor activities.

A Commitment to Community Well-Being

Under the leadership of Chuck Ellis, Director of DeKalb County’s Recreation, Parks, and Cultural Affairs Department, the county continues to enhance the quality of life for its residents.

“It is our job to create an opportunity for a better quality of life for the communities of DeKalb County through people, parks, programs, and partnerships,” Ellis states. “We encourage all members of the community to join us in promoting active and healthy lifestyles through participation in parks and recreational activities.”

The department’s mission is to connect communities with exceptional parks, top-tier recreation facilities, and cross-generational programs designed to encourage physical activity and social engagement. Their work is guided by the DeKalb County Recreation, Parks, and Cultural Affairs Citizens Advisory Board, an 11-member body providing direction and oversight.

Recreational Centers and Facilities

DeKalb County boasts ten state-of-the-art recreational centers, each with multipurpose halls, classrooms, dining rooms, fitness areas, game rooms, and locker facilities. Many centers also feature 30′ x 75′ saltwater lap pools, which provide specialized fitness programs aimed at improving agility, balance, and coordination—especially for senior citizens. All facilities are ADA-compliant, ensuring accessibility for individuals with disabilities.

DeKalb County Recreation Centers:

• East Central DeKalb Community and Senior Center
• Exchange Recreation Center
• Gresham Recreation Center
• Hamilton Recreation Center
• Lucious Sanders Recreation Center
• Mason Mill Recreation Center
• Midway Recreation Center
• N.H. Scott Recreation Center
• Redan Recreation Center
• Tobie Grant Recreation Center

Youth Sports and Community Engagement

The county’s recreational programs extend beyond facilities, offering a variety of youth sports and instructional clinics. From track and field to specialized training programs, DeKalb County encourages young residents to develop lifelong athletic skills while promoting mental and psychological well-being.

How to Register

Parents can sign up their children for youth sports programs through the county’s website or by contacting Sports Coordinator S.L. Summerour at slsummerour@dekalbcountyga.gov.

Upcoming Sports Programs

• Spring Track and Field: This event is open to participants ages 5 to 14. Registration starts February 1 and ends March 1, with four scheduled track meets.

Pavilion Rentals and Community Events

For those looking to host gatherings, DeKalb County offers pavilion rentals for family outings, reunions, and celebrations. The county provides well-maintained spaces for leisure and social events, with reservations available online.

Pavilion Rental Fees

• Small pavilions: $100 (accommodates up to 50 people)
• Large pavilions: $150 (accommodates up to 100 people)
• Out-of-county residents: Additional $30 surcharge

For reservations, visit DeKalb County Pavilion Reservations.

A Future of Recreation and Cultural Enrichment

DeKalb County’s vast park system, high-quality recreational facilities, and cultural programs play a vital role in fostering a healthy, active, and connected community. Whether it’s a five-minute walk to a neighborhood park, a youth sports program, or a cultural arts event, residents have endless opportunities to enjoy the best that DeKalb County has to offer.

For further inquiries, contact DeKalb Parks and Recreation at dekalbparks@dekalbcountyga.gov.