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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.
Resources:
![Gold Award Video](/files/assets/main/v/1/community-amp-recreation/video.png?w=650&h=367)
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
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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
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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