Emerald Park

Park Overview

Tucked away in Mesa, Arizona, Emerald Park spreads across 16.2 acres of public space, offering locals a green escape from the desert surroundings. There's plenty of room to stretch your legs and breathe in some fresh air.

You'll come across well-kept walking paths winding through lush grassy areas, well-suited for a leisurely stroll or morning jog. Mature trees dot the landscape, providing welcome patches of shade on those scorching Arizona days - though on particularly hot afternoons, you might find yourself wishing for a few more shady spots.

Natural Features

The park's centerpiece is a lake that adds a pleasant element to the scenery. Home to a cast of regular duck residents that have become local celebrities of sorts, the water creates a peaceful backdrop for your visit. Bringing some duck-friendly snacks can turn into a delightful activity, especially if you've got kids in tow.

Interestingly, Emerald Park doubles as a water retention basin, which explains the slight dips and rises around its edges. After heavy rainfall, you might notice some areas temporarily underwater - nature's way of transforming the landscape every now and then.

Recreational Facilities

The disc golf course is perhaps what Emerald Park is best known for. With 9 thoughtfully designed holes that can be played in reverse for a full 18-hole experience, it's a great spot for both newcomers and seasoned players. The course features concrete tee boxes, clear signage, and an efficient layout that maximizes the available space. Most of the fairways are open and grassy with minimal tree obstacles, making this an ideal course for beginners worried about losing discs. Just be careful on the few holes that play near the water! For the best experience, download the UDisc app to help navigate the course.

If disc golf isn't your thing, shoot some hoops at the lighted basketball court or bump, set, and spike at the cement volleyball court. The lighting extends your play options well into the evening - meant for those who want to avoid the midday heat.

Amenities

The park offers several picnic tables and BBQ grills for outdoor dining. There are also non-reservable ramadas scattered within the grounds, particularly near the playground and basketball areas, providing some much-needed shelter from the sun.

On the east side of the park, a modern playground awaits the younger visitors. It goes beyond the standard swing-and-slide setup with spinning, hanging, and climbing equipment that's somewhat distinctive. Parents can breathe easy knowing the play area sits at a comfortable distance from both the lake and disc golf activity, creating a safer zone for energetic little ones.

Additional Information

Four-legged friends are welcome at Emerald Park, with plenty of dog-friendly spaces to explore together (leashes required, please). You'll find pet waste stations with bags around the grounds, making it easy to keep the park clean for everyone.

Note that there are no permanent restroom facilities on site, although you might find temporary portable toilets. If nature calls, your best bet is to head to one of the nearby shopping centers.

The park opens daily from 6AM to 10PM. The grounds are generally well-maintained with green grass and clean facilities.