Waukegan Greg Petry SportsPark | Waukegan

Location:
3391 W. Beach Road, Waukegan, IL 60085

Size:
Approximately 135 acres

History and Purpose

Waukegan’s Greg Petry SportsPark was developed to provide high-quality sports facilities for both recreational and competitive athletes. It is named after Greg Petry, a respected local figure committed to promoting youth sports and community development. The park is managed by the Waukegan Park District and stands as one of the largest and most modern sports complexes in the region.

The facility was designed with an emphasis on sustainability and environmental stewardship, incorporating native landscaping and eco-friendly infrastructure alongside top-tier sports amenities.

Facilities and Amenities

1. Soccer Fields:

The SportsPark features 14 soccer fields, including a premier championship-level synthetic turf field.

The turf field is designed for durability and high performance, suitable for competitive play, tournaments, and large events.

The remaining grass fields cater to practices, league games, and casual play across various age groups and skill levels.

2. Softball Fields:

There are 4 lighted softball fields available, which enable evening games and tournaments.

The fields are well-maintained with proper lighting, dugouts, scoreboards, and spectator seating to support competitive softball leagues and events.

3. Playground and Splashpad:

A thoughtfully designed environmentally themed playground provides an engaging space for children to play and explore nature-inspired features.

The splashpad offers a fun way to cool off during the warmer months, making the park family-friendly and accessible to visitors of all ages.

4. Walking Trails:

The park includes approximately 4 miles of walking and jogging trails winding through scenic areas.

These trails promote fitness, outdoor activity, and connection with nature, appealing to both casual walkers and serious runners.

5. Native Landscaping and Environmental Design:

Over 16 acres of native plants, rain gardens, and bioswales are integrated into the park’s design.

These features help manage stormwater, support local wildlife habitats, and enhance the park’s natural beauty.

Sustainable practices reduce environmental impact and improve the visitor experience by creating a healthier ecosystem.

6. Visitor Amenities:

The park provides well-maintained restrooms and concession stands for comfort and convenience during events.

Parking is ample with a large 685-space lot. A nominal $5 parking fee applies on weekends and during special events to support maintenance and operations.

Sports Programs and Events

The SportsPark is a vibrant hub for organized sports, community leagues, and tournaments:

Adult Softball Leagues: Offering both men’s and coed leagues, active during spring, summer, and fall seasons.

Youth Soccer and Softball: Programs are available for children and teenagers to develop skills, teamwork, and sportsmanship through structured leagues and clinics.

Regional and National Tournaments: The complex hosts major tournaments drawing teams from across the region and country, benefiting local tourism and community engagement.

Open Recreational Use: When not scheduled for leagues or tournaments, fields and trails are available for general public use.

Visitor Information

Operating Hours: Open daily from 5:00 AM to 9:00 PM, allowing for early morning exercise and evening games.

Contact: (847) 782-3622 for general information.

Parking: Available onsite with a fee applied on weekends and event days to support facility upkeep.

Accessibility: Facilities are designed to be accessible, with paved paths and accommodations for visitors with disabilities.

Community Impact

Waukegan’s Greg Petry SportsPark plays a crucial role in the community by:

Promoting physical activity and healthy lifestyles among residents of all ages.

Supporting youth sports development through quality facilities and programs.

Hosting events that foster local pride and bring economic benefits through tourism.

Emphasizing environmental responsibility through native landscaping and sustainable design.

Summary

Waukegan’s Greg Petry SportsPark is more than just a collection of fields — it is a comprehensive, thoughtfully designed sports complex that serves athletes, families, and the broader community. With its extensive facilities, modern amenities, and strong community programming, it stands as a regional leader in sports and recreation, welcoming everyone from casual players to elite competitors.