NOTICE 10/06/24: Morgan Family Community Center, North Port Aquatic Center, Atwater Splash Pad, and Warm Mineral Springs Parks will be closed Monday, Oct. 7, until further notice to implement protective measures for the facilities, equipment and staff in advance of the storm.
Please note the following also remain closed at this time:
- George Mullen Activity Center
- Myakkahatchee Creek Greenway Disc Golf Course
- Myakkahatchee Creek Environmental Park
Please check the rainout line for field updates. Some small debris and standing water may be present in the parks. Play safe and avoid these areas, and know that our staff is continuing to clean up the parks.
The vision of the Parks & Recreation Department is to be a recognized leader in providing parks, facilities, and programs that increase wellness and enrich life experiences within our community. Our mission? To promote healthy and socially rewarding activities through the preservation of cultural resources and the provision of diverse high-quality parks and natural spaces.
The Department is accredited by the Commission for Accreditation of Park and Recreation Agencies for excellence in operation and service through the National Recreation and Park Association (NRPA). Accreditation provides quality assurance and improvement by providing agencies with a management system of best practices. CAPRA is the only national accreditation of park and recreation agencies and is a valuable measure of an agency’s overall quality of operation, management, and service to the community. To learn more about our agency accreditation, visit the NRPA website.
Established as a department in 2019, we are dedicated to meeting the needs of our rapidly expanding community. Our department comprises four divisions and manages over 600 acres of parkland, including two recreational facilities, one water park, and a nationally historic site, Warm Mineral Springs Park. We also offer numerous programs and events and provide access to over 80 miles of freshwater canals. With only 74 full-time employees, which is lower than the industry average that serves a community that now exceeds 90,000, we are able to provide a high-level of service and proudly hold national accreditation as a CAPRA agency.
2024 National Gold Medal Finalist
We are excited to announce that North Port Parks & Recreation has been selected as a 2024 American Academy for Park and Recreation Administration National Gold Medal Award Program Finalist for Excellence in Park and Recreation Management in Class III (population 75,001–150,000). This is an amazing accomplishment for our team as it is highly unusual for first time applicants to be selected as a finalist.
The Gold Medal Awards program honors communities in the United States that demonstrate excellence in parks and recreation through long-range planning, resource management, volunteerism, environmental stewardship, program development, professional development and agency recognition. Agencies are judged on their ability to address the needs of those they serve through the collective energies of community members, staff and elected officials. Four finalists in each class are chosen to compete for grand honors each year.
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Florida Festivals & Events Association (FFEA) announced the winners of its annual SUNsational Awards during their 30th annual convention and tradeshow. The program proudly honors the innovation, individuality, and creative collaboration of FFEA members.
Each category featured three budget levels and over 200 events submitted their materials for consideration. The nominations were judged by a distinguished panel, including experts from media outlets, printing companies, website design, photography, promotional marketing, and social media. We are thrilled to announce the following award recipients:
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Dillon George, Recreation Supervisor, secured a 2nd place award for his outstanding work on the “Go Green with Parks” initiative, a program that highlights the department’s commitment to environmental stewardship and sustainability.
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Whitney Bedard, Graphic Design Specialist, & Alex Sisson, Recreation Attendant, were also honored with a 2nd place award for their creative design of the Woofstock promotional flyer, showcasing their talent in engaging the community through visually appealing and effective marketing.
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Stacy Aloisio, Emergency Manager, Shelby Mendelson, Recreation Manager and the Incident Command System team received a 2nd place award for their meticulous development of the Event Safety/Risk Management Plan for the Poinsettia Parade & Festival, reflecting their dedication to ensuring a safe and enjoyable experience for all attendees.
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Additionally, Kimberly Lencki, Community Partnerships & Engagement Manager, was recognized with a 1st place award for her insightful analysis in the Department’s annual Impact Report, which highlights the economic contributions of local parks and recreation programs.
For a complete list of winners, visit www.ffea.com/sunsational-awards.
Joan Morgan, longtime North Port resident, was honored by the Florida Recreation & Park Association (FRPA) at their annual state conference Awards and Installation Ceremony on Aug. 28, 2024. Joan was honored with the 2024 FRPA Voluntary Service - Individual Award for her exceptional commitment and tireless service to the North Port community. Through her involvement in various park and recreational activities, events and programs, Joan has made a lasting impact by fostering community engagement, enhancing the quality of life for residents, and contributing to the growth and success of North Port's recreational initiatives. Her dedication exemplifies the true spirit of volunteerism and community leadership.
View FRPA Award Video: https://youtu.be/U2ERQpX_5bc
For more information about FRPA and this award, visit www.frpa.org/conference/awardsconf
City of North Port Parks & Recreation Department Master Plan
The purpose of the City of North Port Parks & Recreation Master Plan is to provide the City of North Port Parks & Recreation Department with future direction regarding the City's parks, facilities, programs, and activities. The master plan identifies and organizes how specific objectives will be met and achieved.
We invite you to review the City of North Port Parks & Recreation Master Plan.(PDF, 12MB)
Meet Ranger Oakley, the North Port Parks & Recreation Gnome
Ranger Oakley, originally from Oaks Park, became known as the North Port Gnome through his dedication to the local community. The North Port Parks & Recreation adopted Ranger and created the motto "There's Gnome Place Like North Port" in recognition of his spirit and love for the City.
His first public appearance was at the Poinsettia Parade & Festival in 2023. Since then, he has been a regular presence at signature events, ribbon cuttings, and community programs, fostering a sense of home and belonging among residents.
When you see Ranger Oakley, don't be shy — shake his hand, give him a hug, or even a high-five! He loves his community and is always ready to share his enthusiasm with everyone.
View Digital Playbook
Learn more about our other upcoming events, facilities, programs, and parks by reviewing our Playbook, it's your guide to all things Parks & Recreation in the City of North Port.
Sign up for the Parks & Recreation quarterly e-newsletter!
Give the Gift of Parks!
Discover the perfect gift with the City of North Port Parks & Recreation Department's Gift of Parks gift cards! These versatile cards open the door to endless fun and adventure, from exciting programs and facility admissions to tasty treats at the North Port Aquatic Center. Fully refillable with no fee limits, they're the gift that keeps on giving. Grab yours today at the Morgan Family Community Center, George Mullen Activity Center, or the North Port Aquatic Center. For more information, call 941-429-PARK (7275) and start gifting unforgettable experiences!
Contact Us
Parks & Recreation Department
City Hall, Third Floor
4970 City Hall Boulevard
North Port, FL 34286
(941) 429-7275 Office
(941) 429-3557 Fax
Follow us on Facebook @NorthPortParksAndRec