Riverway Sports Park

A Sprawling Sports Haven

Right next to North Dinuba Boulevard in Visalia, California, Riverway Sports Park stretches across 83 acres of recreational space. Open daily from 6 a.m. to 10 p.m., this park offers something for everyone, whether you're an early bird or prefer evening outings.

Where Athletes Play

The park features ten lighted soccer fields that get quite busy during weekend tournaments. There's also a lighted four-diamond softball complex for those softball showdowns, and baseball fans can head to the lighted four-diamond baseball complex - the CR Shannon Baseball Complex - which has hosted some pretty significant events including the Cal Ripken World Series in 2011 and the Western Regionals the following year.

Fair warning: during soccer season, weekends transform the park into a bustling hub of activity with games running simultaneously across multiple fields. The energy is contagious, but sometimes overwhelming if you're seeking tranquility.

Family Fun Zones

Beyond organized sports, Riverway offers delightful spaces for families looking to play more casually. Kids of various ages have their pick of playgrounds, including a tot lot for the little ones and the community-built 1,000 Hands Playground with modern equipment for children of all ages.

When summer heats up, the Splash Pad provides welcome relief from the heat. Open daily from 11 a.m. to 7 p.m. between Memorial Day and Labor Day weekends, this interactive water feature provides a refreshing escape from those warm California days.

Gather and Celebrate

Planning a get-together? The park features five reservable picnic areas complete with barbecue grills, fantastic for family reunions or birthday celebrations. If you're feeling more spontaneous, informal picnic spaces dot the grounds, many blessed with shade trees to keep you comfortable while you eat and chat.

The park's thoughtfully designed central promenade is a versatile space for special events, while the expansive lawns welcome impromptu frisbee games or peaceful afternoon lounging with a good book.

Practical Matters

With parking for 800 cars spread across multiple lots, you'll typically find a spot without hassle. That said, during major tournaments or busy weekend play, you might need to park further from your destination field and enjoy a bit of a walk.

When nature calls, restroom facilities are available within the grounds, but cleanliness can vary depending on when you visit. Concession buildings offer refreshments during organized events, saving you the trouble of packing extensive snacks.

Beyond the Fields

Feel like exploring beyond the park? Riverway connects to the St. Johns Parkway Trail, making it an excellent jumping-off point for extended walks or bike rides. The network of walking paths within the park itself attracts morning strollers and dog walkers (yes, your leashed furry friends are welcome here).

For the most peaceful experience, try visiting on weekday mornings when the crowds thin out and the spacious grounds feel almost like your personal backyard. Spring and fall bring youth sports leagues in full force, creating a lively - sometimes hectic - atmosphere.