Jackson Park | Hendersonville

Jackson Park, located in Hendersonville, North Carolina, is one of the largest and most comprehensive municipal parks in Western North Carolina, spanning an impressive 220 acres. It serves as a major recreational hub for the community, offering a diverse range of outdoor activities, sports facilities, and natural spaces, making it a popular destination for residents and visitors alike.

Location and Accessibility

Jackson Park is situated at 801 4th Avenue East, on the southeastern edge of Hendersonville. The park is accessible through two main entrances: one on Fourth Avenue East and another via Glover Street off U.S. Highway 176 (Spartanburg Highway). This convenient positioning allows easy access for local residents and visitors traveling from surrounding areas.

Operating Hours

The park is open every day from 7:30 a.m. until 11:00 p.m., providing ample time for early morning exercise, daytime recreation, and evening relaxation.

Recreational Facilities and Amenities

Jackson Park boasts a wide variety of facilities designed to cater to many interests and age groups:

Athletic Fields:
The park features nine lighted softball and baseball fields, which host leagues, tournaments, and casual play. In addition, there are two full-size soccer fields and two lighted basketball courts, supporting a variety of team sports and recreational activities.

Tennis Courts:
Eight lighted tennis courts allow for both daytime and nighttime play, serving tennis enthusiasts from beginner to advanced levels.

Mountain Bike Skills Park:
For mountain biking aficionados, Jackson Park offers a dedicated skills area designed to practice jumps, balance, and technical maneuvers. This space encourages both beginners and experienced riders to develop and refine their biking abilities.

Inclusive Playground:
One of the park’s standout features is the Donnie Jones All-Inclusive Playground. This playground is thoughtfully designed for children of all abilities, including those with disabilities. It includes wheelchair-accessible equipment and smooth rubberized surfaces, promoting inclusive play and social interaction for all children.

Nature Trails and Greenways:
The park contains a 1.2-mile nature trail winding through wooded areas, as well as the Oklawaha Greenway, a ¾-mile paved trail that runs along Mud Creek. These trails are ideal for walking, jogging, biking, and enjoying the local flora and fauna. They provide scenic views and a peaceful atmosphere, making the park an excellent spot for nature lovers and casual hikers.

Picnic Facilities:
Visitors can take advantage of four covered picnic shelters, which accommodate anywhere from 50 to 150 people, perfect for family reunions, parties, or community gatherings. Additionally, 20 woodland picnic tables are scattered throughout the park, offering scenic spots for casual meals or relaxation. Some shelters are available for rent, equipped with amenities like electrical outlets, lights, charcoal grills, fireplaces, and nearby restrooms.

Concession Stands and Restrooms:
Two concession stands operate during events or peak visitation periods, providing food and refreshments. Clean restroom facilities are conveniently located near major activity areas for visitor comfort.

Birdwatching and Natural Environment

Jackson Park is notable for its rich natural habitat, including mixed hardwood and pine forests, riparian zones along Mud Creek, and open meadows. This variety supports a vibrant bird population, making it a popular spot for birdwatching, especially during migration seasons. Bird species frequently observed include various warblers, tanagers, thrushes, and other songbirds. Dedicated trails like the Nature Trail and Warbler Trail provide excellent opportunities for birders to enjoy the park’s avian diversity.

Shelter Rentals and Group Events

The park offers several shelters for rental, suitable for social gatherings, celebrations, or group events. These include:

Shelter 1: Equipped with 12 tables, a working fireplace, electrical outlets, and automatic lighting, suitable for larger groups.

Shelter 2: Features 8 tables with electrical outlets and lighting.

Shelter 3: Comes with 8 tables, a charcoal grill, electrical outlets, and lighting.

Shelter 4: Similar to Shelter 3 but also includes attached bathrooms, ideal for convenience during events.

Rental fees typically cover a four-hour period and are modest, providing an affordable option for hosting outdoor events.

Contact and Additional Information

For more information, reservations, or inquiries, visitors can contact the Henderson County Parks and Recreation Department:

Phone: (828) 697-4884

Summary

Jackson Park is a multifaceted outdoor destination combining sports facilities, natural beauty, and inclusive recreational opportunities. Its expansive acreage and diverse amenities support everything from competitive athletics to peaceful nature walks, making it a cornerstone of community life in Hendersonville. Whether seeking active play, family outings, or tranquil moments in nature, Jackson Park delivers an enriching experience for visitors of all ages and interests.