River Park in Brooklyn Park has family-friendly amenities that include a playground, trails and sports courts and fields. It also offers boat access to the Mississippi. There is off-street parking available and public restrooms.
8 Idea for Family Fun at River Park
- Play a game of one-on-one on the full basketball court
- Try the cricket pitch. A cricket paddle is a bit like a baseball bat, but more paddle shaped.
- Let the kids run on the Playground
- Bring a playground ball for a game of kickball on the softball diamond.
- Play some tennis together or practice your volleys while the kids chase the balls for you.
- Use your playground ball for a game of volleyball.
- Launch your boat, canoe or kayak from this park for access to the Mississippi; or rent a Paddle Share kayak.
- Walk the park’s trails, enjoy the shreline of the Mississippi, and check out the scenic overlook.
Paddle Share Program
During the summer months, experienced kayakers can rent a one-way kayak through Paddle Share, a self-serve rental program. Users choose a route, make a reservation and receive an access code, then they can unlock their kayak (with paddle and life jacket) and return the kayak on the other end of their route. Prices range from $30-$50. Learn more at the Paddle Share website.
Updates to the Park
During 2020, the city redeveloped the parks trails, removed some trees, corrected stormwater and river shoreline stability problems, created a river overlook and updated the restroom building. Turf and natural area were restored during the summer of 2021. New features of the park include:
- New restrooms on the south side of the park
- Improved trails, including added lighting
- A canoe and kayak launch
- A kitchen with stainless steel counters, sink and refrigerator.
- A scenic overlook
- Stormwater management, shoreline restoration and improvements to the prairie area.
Birthday Parties at River Park
Picnic pavilions at this park can be rented for private events, like birthday parties. Reservations begin in January.
