Discovery Park

Park Overview

Positioned in the Gilbert landscape, Discovery Park spans a generous 48 acres of public recreation space that's been welcoming visitors since 2006. Located at the northwest corner of Santan Village Parkway and Pecos Road, this versatile park offers something for just about everyone.

What makes this spot special isn't just its size, but its thoughtfully designed terrain. The gentle hills and varied landscapes create pockets of serenity even on busy days. Whether you're looking to break a sweat or simply find a peaceful spot to unwind, the park accommodates both energetic activities and quiet contemplation.

Water Features

The two lakes are the park's centerpiece, using reclaimed water to create not just a beautiful focal point but a sustainable one too. These lakes are part of the community fishing program and are regularly stocked with catfish, bass, bluegill, and seasonally, trout.

Not into fishing? The lakes still have plenty to offer. They attract ducks, geese, and various bird species, making this a good spot for birdwatching. Bring binoculars if that's your thing, or simply enjoy watching the waterfowl go about their day.

Trails and Paths

Winding within the park is a network of multi-use trails that circle the lakes and connect different areas. These well-maintained paths work well for a morning jog, an evening stroll, or a family bike ride. The trails are wide enough to accommodate multiple users comfortably, including equestrians who frequent the park.

The paved sections are smooth and accessible, making them suitable for strollers, wheelchairs, or anyone who prefers a more stable walking surface. It's not uncommon to see people of all ages making use of these paths at various times of day.

Sports Facilities

Athletic types will appreciate the five multi-use fields, three of which have lights for evening play. These spaces host everything from casual frisbee tosses to organized youth sports like soccer, football, and rugby practices.

You'll also find two lighted basketball courts and two lighted sand volleyball courts that stay active well into the evening. The lighting extends the usability of these areas into the evening hours.

Children's Area

Kids have a dedicated playground area that combines education with fun. The play structures include climbing rocks, a mammoth skull-themed structure (nodding to the park's history), and giant bamboo climbing features that challenge little adventurers.

The entire playground is shaded, making it usable even during Arizona's warmer months. There are clean restrooms located nearby, which is helpful for longer visits with children.

Picnic and Event Spaces

Gathering with friends and family? The park offers eight reservable ramadas to accommodate groups of different sizes.

For larger get-togethers, three large group ramadas each come equipped with nine tables, grills, and power outlets. Smaller gatherings can make use of the five smaller picnic ramadas, each featuring two tables, grills, and electrical access.

You can reserve these spaces for a reasonable fee, which is worth it if you're planning something special like a birthday celebration or family reunion.

Educational Features

Discovery Park lives up to its name with thoughtful educational elements. The butterfly garden draws in pollinators and provides a close-up look at these beautiful insects. There's also a learning path that adds an interactive dimension to your visit.

Interestingly, the park's name isn't just a generic label - it honors the discovery of Columbian Mammoth fossils found near this very site during construction. This connection to prehistoric Arizona adds a layer of significance to your time here.

Scenic Views

While the entire park is visually pleasing, sunset brings a special magic to the landscape. Many visitors pause to take in the view of the Gilbert Temple in the distance, which creates a particularly striking silhouette as daylight fades.

The landscape with its hills, lakes, and greenery offers good spots for photography or quiet contemplation.

Accessibility

With over 400 parking spaces including designated accessible parking, getting to the park is straightforward. It's open daily from 5:30 AM to 10 PM, accommodating early birds and night owls alike.

All facilities, including restrooms, are handicap accessible, ensuring that everyone can enjoy what this community space has to offer, regardless of mobility needs.