Ruby Grant Park

History and Legacy

Found in Norman, Oklahoma, Ruby Grant Park spans a generous 144 acres at 3110 W. Franklin Road. The park opened in December 2020 as part of the Norman Forward initiative - a grassroots effort to improve the city's recreational spaces.

The park bears the name of Ruby Grant, a dedicated local teacher who spent most of her life in a modest home on this very land, built by her parents shortly after the 1889 Land Run. Before Ruby passed away in 1998, she arranged for her family assets to benefit the University of Oklahoma's School of Music and a reading program - a testament to her lifelong commitment to education. Later, the City of Norman purchased the property to transform it into the public park we enjoy today. If you're curious about Ruby's remarkable life, check out the informational displays adorning the pavilion walls.

Park Amenities

Ruby Grant Park has a little something for everyone. Outdoor enthusiasts can explore the network of walking and running trails, including a competitive cross-country trail facility. These well-kept paved and gravel paths meander through the grounds, offering peaceful views of nature and interesting art installations along the way.

Sports fans haven't been forgotten - practice fields dot the landscape, and disc golf lovers can tackle the 18-hole disc golf course that weaves through varied terrain from open meadows to narrow wooded sections and creek-side paths.

The inclusive playground welcomes children of all abilities, including those using wheelchairs. And for the four-legged members of your family, there's a dedicated dog park where they can romp off-leash to their heart's content. Remember that leashed dogs are welcome throughout the rest of the park's trails too.

Playground Features

The playground at Ruby Grant Park is notable among Norman's park facilities. Parents can relax a bit thanks to the completely fenced-in play area with secure gates - a thoughtful touch that helps keep curious toddlers from wandering off.

Kids are drawn to the unique play equipment, from musical toys to exhilarating zip line swings, a classic merry-go-round, and a smooth roller slide. The modern surfacing materials (no wood chips here!) make for a cleaner play experience and better accessibility for all.

You'll find multiple benches and some shaded spots to sit while supervising the little ones. One thing to note: the playground has limited lighting, which might cut playtime short during the earlier sunsets of fall and winter.

Accessibility and Facilities

Inclusion is clearly a priority at Ruby Grant Park. The thoughtful design makes the park wheelchair friendly throughout, creating a welcoming environment for visitors of all mobility levels.

When nature calls, you can find clean restroom facilities conveniently located within the grounds, including separate men's and women's facilities plus a family restroom. Water fountains are positioned near the restroom area for quick hydration breaks.

Planning a gathering? The park offers several picnic pavilions with tables, including a spacious main pavilion with plenty of covered seating. There's even a practical boot cleaner with bristle brushes near the restrooms - a lifesaver on those muddy Oklahoma days.

Natural Setting

As a park still in its youth, Ruby Grant is gradually developing its tree canopy. The currently open landscape means plenty of sunshine - which can be quite intense during Oklahoma summers. You might want to bring a hat, sunscreen, and water during the warmer months.

A charming creek winds through parts of the park, adding a refreshing natural element to the landscape. Keep your camera handy for shots of local wildlife and seasonal scenery all year long.

Ruby Grant Park is a nice addition to Norman's outdoor spaces, offering a clean, peaceful setting for recreation and relaxation.