McKinley Park

A Hidden Urban Oasis with a Fascinating Past

Located in Oklahoma City, McKinley Park spans 9.4 acres of green tranquility amid the urban landscape. What we find particularly interesting isn't just the park's amenities, but the remarkable story of how it came to be.

Believe it or not, this peaceful retreat was once a 60-foot deep brick pit owned by the Oklahoma Brick Company, abandoned in 1913 and posing quite the hazard for neighborhood kids who ventured too close.

From Dangerous Pit to Community Treasure

When local residents saw children playing near the dangerous pit, they didn't just complain - they took action. The Oklahoma Brick Pit Improvement Association formed as neighbors banded together, raising funds to help the city transform this eyesore into something beautiful for everyone.

It wasn't a quick fix, though. The land acquisition and filling of the massive pit took years, with serious park development only beginning in 1928.

Depression-Era Determination

Even the Great Depression couldn't stop this park from becoming reality. Workers from the Works Progress Administration (WPA) built distinctive stone castle clubhouses - one for boys and one for girls - that still stand as the park's most charming historical features.

What we find particularly touching is how the community pitched in wherever they could. Local tradesmen donated time to install lighting, while neighbors literally uprooted trees from their own yards to help green the new space.

McKinley Park finally opened in 1933, becoming an important addition to Oklahoma City's park system. Those historic stone castles remain today, silent witnesses to what community determination can accomplish.

Room to Play and Move

For those wanting to stay active, McKinley has walking paths that loop around the perimeter. Each circuit gives you about half a mile of gentle exercise - meant for morning strolls or afternoon cool-downs.

The park includes four basketball courts, two soccer fields, a baseball field, and tennis courts. Whether you're organizing a pickup game or practicing your backhand, you'll find space for various outdoor activities.

Kid-Friendly Fun

The modern playground features slides, swings, monkey bars, and a rock climbing feature. Parents can relax a bit knowing the playground surface is covered with rubber material that cushions inevitable tumbles.

On hot Oklahoma days, many visitors head to the splash pad. Kids love cooling off in the water while parents appreciate the nearby shaded areas that make supervision comfortable even in summer heat.

Picnics and Peaceful Moments

Gathering with friends? The park offers a pavilion with covered seating, wheelchair-accessible picnic tables, and benches scattered across the grounds. Mature trees create plenty of shady spots meant for reading, meditation, or simply watching the world go by.

The proximity to the Plaza District makes McKinley Park easily accessible and an ideal stop to combine with other activities in the area.

Good to Know Before You Go

You can find parking facilities and bike racks available if you're coming from further away. If you're bringing your four-legged friend, you'll appreciate the waste bag stations along the walking trail.

Note that restroom facilities are limited to portable toilets, so plan accordingly. The park welcomes visitors Monday through Friday from 8AM to 5PM, but is closed on weekends.