Parks and recreation in Brookings, SD: how outdoor fun ties into economic development

Many communities tout the outdoor amenities and local events that drive summertime fun for residents and visitors alike. Brookings, SD, however, truly has the results to match those expectations.

“Between the Brookings Summer Arts Festival, a youth baseball tournament and a local tennis tournament, we had about 50,000 people in town over a recent weekend,” said Kristin Zimmerman, Brookings Director of Parks, Recreation & Forestry. “There is always something going on in Brookings!”

Parks & Recreation

That excitement underlines the significance accompanying National Parks and Recreation Month, celebrated every July for nearly 40 years. The summer months are a great time to explore Brookings. Parks in the city comprise more than 640 acres, with numerous hiking trails and natural wonders to explore, along with playgrounds, ball diamonds and more. Recreation in the parks and other areas provides a wide range of leisure activities for youth, adults, and families at an affordable cost, which is not feasible or easily provided by the private sector.

“Municipal parks and facilities play a pivotal role in building a strong community and a greater sense of belonging for the entire Brookings community,” said Zimmerman.

Valuable amenities

Pickleball courts will soon be added to the list of Hillcrest Park amenities, such as an Aquatic Center, lighted biking and walking trail, playground equipment and more. Eight new courts are set to be ready for use once construction is completed in the fall. The project cost is approximately $750,000, of which about 80% was provided by resident and business donations. 

The Hillcrest Aquatic Center has four outdoor pools, including a 50-meter pool with one- and three-meter diving boards, a large wading pool, a plunge pool and a zero-depth leisure pool, each with multiple water features, slides and other family fun opportunities. 

Pioneer Park is the site of the Brookings Summer Arts Festival, and the Pioneer Park Historic Bandshell is a compelling backdrop for the event. The bandshell, initially constructed in the 1930s,  just received a facelift thanks to an approximate $214,000 restoration, which included stucco and drainage repairs, an ADA ramp and railings and other improvements.

Those seeking peaceful tranquility outdoors head to the Dakota Nature Park. Open year-round, the park covers 135 acres with trails, ponds and the Larson Nature Center. 

Edgebrook Golf Course challenges experts and novices, whether from the regulation 18 holes at 6,200 yards and par 70 or the nine-hole junior course.  The experience includes a clubhouse, driving range, large practice green and chipping green, a pro shop, and more.

And summertime is still an excellent time to lace up the skates at the Larson Ice Center! The ice sheet is typically opened around August 1 and offers recreational skating and group usage for hockey, figure skating and more.  

For a complete listing of all the Brookings parks, please visit the City website. 

Parks support regional economic development 

There is a direct correlation between visiting local parks and economic growth in Brookings. Increasing attendance could lead to additional funding for parks and programs for kids, families, and adults. Funding and personal contributions or fees support the upkeep of the parks, including removing invasive species and litter that can harm local wildlife. This maintenance improves the quality of life in Brookings and makes it a desirable place to live now and for future generations. Parks can then remain an asset, attracting residents to Brookings and growing the workforce. 

The City of Brookings and Brookings Economic Development Corporation strive to support the recreational assets of the area. Learn more about the Brookings Parks & Recreation Master Plan (PDF) and the efforts put into improving the quality of life and economic development of Brookings today!