Grafa Park

Park Overview

Tucked away near the intersection of Midkiff Road and Ma Mar Avenue in Midland, Texas, Grafa Park spans a modest 5.9 acres but packs plenty of charm into its neighborhood-sized footprint. This little green oasis functions as a breathing space for locals seeking a break from the Texas heat, with beautiful trees casting much-appreciated shade across its clean, peaceful grounds.

Recreational Features

A well-maintained concrete walking path loops around the park's perimeter, well-suited for your morning jog or an evening stroll to clear your head. The path encircles areas of excellent turf that remain surprisingly lush despite the challenging West Texas climate.

Kids gravitate toward the playground area, which, while showing some signs of being well-loved (especially those swings), remains a solid spot for little ones to burn off energy. You can almost hear the laughter just thinking about it.

Picnic Facilities

Fancy an outdoor lunch? Picnic tables and benches dot the landscape, offering perfect perches for people-watching or enjoying a sandwich in the sunshine. Just remember to pack ready-to-eat food since there aren't any grills available for cooking on-site.

History and Namesake

The park bears the name of Clinton Barney Grafa, though the story behind this namesake remains something of a mystery in local lore. Nestled near both Midland Freshman High School and Travis Elementary School, the park has become an extension of these campuses in many ways, with students frequently crossing its grounds.

Community Use

In recent years, impromptu soccer games have become a common sight here, with the open fields providing just enough space for friendly matches. The park rarely feels crowded, making it a wonderful refuge when you need some quiet outdoor time. Just a heads-up: if you're visiting around dusk, you might want to bring some mosquito repellent.

Pet Amenities

Four-legged friends are more than welcome at Grafa Park, provided they stay on leash. Your pup will appreciate the open spaces, and you'll appreciate the dog waste bag dispensers stationed across the grounds. Trash cans are somewhat limited though, so you might need to hold onto that bag for a bit longer than ideal.

Additional Information

Before heading out, you should know there are no restroom facilities at Grafa Park. While drinking water is available, you might want to bring your own bottle if you're planning to spend more than an hour exploring this neighborhood site.