Harrison Park

A Bit of History

Situated in Wichita, Kansas, Harrison Park has been a local treasure since 1957 when it was donated by William Benson Harrison (hence the name!). With its gently rolling hills, this green space offers a peaceful escape from city life, featuring well-kept buffalo grass and a diverse collection of trees that provide welcome shade on hot Kansas days.

Gone Fishing

The park features a place for fishing enthusiasts. The park's one-acre fishing pond was added in 1993 thanks to funding from the State of Kansas Department of Wildlife and Parks. Home to largemouth bass, bluegill, and channel catfish, it's actually the only public fishing spot in all of southeast Wichita. Nothing beats a quiet afternoon by the water, even if the fish aren't biting.

Pup Paradise

Dog owners will appreciate that Harrison Park boasts an impressive off-leash dog park that has become something of a community hub. It's thoughtfully divided into areas for small dogs and large dogs (with the large dog section rotating seasonally to keep the grass healthy).

Your four-legged friends can test their skills on various agility equipment or work on commands in designated training areas. The area is often frequented by a regular group of pet owners who know each other well.

Stay Active

Feeling energetic? Take a spin around the 0.75-mile paved trail that loops through the entire park. Along the way, you'll come across several "Health Beat" outdoor fitness stations designed to give you a complete workout.

Sports enthusiasts haven't been forgotten either. The park features tennis courts, basketball courts, a softball diamond, and even a rugby field that is home turf for the Wichita Barbarians Rugby Football Club. The open spaces are versatile enough for impromptu football or soccer games too.

Kid-Friendly Fun

Bringing the little ones? They'll have plenty to do at two different playgrounds suited for various ages.

The newest addition to Harrison Park came in 2023 - a cool splash pad that is the final piece of a larger aquatics plan. Kids especially love the giant scorpion feature that shoots water from multiple directions! The splash pad runs daily from 10 am to 8 pm during summer months, offering a wonderful way to cool down when Kansas temperatures soar.

The Practical Stuff

You'll come across all the basics covered here with clean restrooms, water fountains, and several picnic areas for outdoor meals. Parking is available in two spots: a smaller paved lot on the west side and a larger gravel area to the east.

Need a breather during your walk? Numerous benches line the walking path, providing perfect spots to take a moment, watch the birds, or simply enjoy some quiet time in this local park.