In New Braunfels, the outdoors is a part of everyday life. The city’s parks and recreation spaces welcome people of all ages and interests, making it easy to enjoy the outdoors.
“Our mission is to create meaningful spaces for the community to gather, stay active and connect with nature,” Parks and Recreation Assistant Director Chad Donegan said. “From youth sports leagues to family programs and quiet trails, our parks inspire activity, foster connections and provide a place to unwind.”
Upcoming major projects
The city is expanding its green spaces with more than 40 parks in New Braunfels, introducing new developments for residents to play, explore and connect with the outdoors, including:
- Zipp Family Sports Park
Opening in late spring, the Zipp Family Sports Park will be a cornerstone for youth and adult athletics in New Braunfels.
The new complex will have four baseball, softball and soccer fields and can accommodate additional sports in the future.
“It’ll enhance our ability to serve junior and youth sports,” Donegan said. “We want to give New Braunfels a home to be proud of.”
- Mission Hill Park
Mission Hill Park, approved in the 2023 bond election, is expected to open by early spring. It offers breathtaking views in Comal County. Atop the city’s highest elevation, this park includes:
- A three-story building with meeting space and restrooms
- Multiple panoramic views
- A tree canopy boardwalk with scenic photo stops
- Paved and natural trails weave through the woods
“When the trees are in full bloom, visitors will feel like they’re walking through the world of the birds,” Donegan said. “It will be a one-of-a-kind experience.”
- Northwest Park
In the master planning phase, the future Northwest Park will become the city’s largest green space—roughly 150 acres. An October public meeting allowed residents to weigh in on concepts like trails, multi-use fields, picnic areas and pavilions.
As the city finalizes the design, community feedback remains available online.
“We want to hear from all citizens,” Donegan said. “This is almost a blank slate, and it’s exciting to think about this park’s future.”
Recent projects
New Braunfels has recently completed projects that provide residents new ways to enjoy the outdoors and stay active.
- Willard Canyon Trail: Opened on land donated by Dr. Willard and his wife, offers walking, running and nature enjoyment.
- Alligator Creek Trail West: A new west side trail connects neighborhoods to green spaces, expanding access to the city’s trail network.
- Landa Park Aquatic Complex: Renovations to the spring-fed and Olympic pool enhance recreation for swimmers of all ages.
Award-winning parks built together
A team committed to creating community spaces ensures New Braunfels’ parks thrive. City staff, volunteers and boards like the Park Foundation collaborate to ensure parks meet residents’ needs.
In October 2024, the department received the National Recreation and Park Association National Gold Medal, recognizing its programs and community impact. It was also reaccredited this past September through the Commission for Accreditation of Park and Recreation Agencies, meeting more than 150 national standards for excellence.
“Our motto is ‘One City, One Team,’” Donegan said. “These honors reflect what we can achieve when all city departments work together, alongside volunteers and community members, to create parks that inspire activity, foster connections and provide spaces to enjoy nature.”
Find your unwind spot
New Braunfels’ parks offer scenic trails, playgrounds, sports fields and quiet spots to relax, ready for every adventure. Step outside, explore and make memories—your next outdoor escape is nearby.
Visit the city’s Parks and Recreation website to find your nearest park, upcoming programs and events, and discover your favorite park.
The above story was produced by Multi Platform Journalist Chloe Chapel with Community Impact's Storytelling team with information solely provided by the local business as part of their "sponsored content" purchase through our advertising team.
