The Freeport Park District

The Freeport Park District protects and enhances more than 700 acres of owned and leased land, which it operates and maintains beyond the city limits.

Events & News

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February

Mom & Me Masquerade

6:00 pm

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Discover more park and community events below!

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Check out all Freeport Parks & Recreation has to offer with our latest Enjoy Guide. Get signed up now!

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Our District

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Park Hills

Spread over 300 beautiful acres of rolling Northwest Illinois hillsides, Park Hills boasts two lovely 18-hole courses capable of challenging golfers of every level.

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Winter Park

Built by local craftsman James Winter, this 7-acre park was gifted to the Park District in 1995. It features a 1/3-mile paved path, playground, small shelter, ball backstop, and open green space with beautiful landscaping for all to enjoy.

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Krape Park

Award-winning Krape Park features a 44′ waterfall, carousel, mini golf, trails, sledding hills, disc golf, fishing, playgrounds, picnic areas, and the Koenig Amphitheater—offering year-round recreation for all ages.

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Wilbur Park

Founded through community action and donated by W.T. Rawleigh in 1948, Wilbur Park honors his son, a World War I veteran. The park offers landscaped grounds and play equipment.

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Bidwell Park

This 2-acre neighborhood park was gifted to the Park District in 1916 by the heirs of Orlando B. Bidwell, a respected Freeport leader. Across from Freeport Memorial Hospital, it features a small shelter, backstop, and play equipment.

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Read Park

Centrally located in Freeport, Read Park features the Family Aquatic Center, 11,000 sq. ft. skate park, playgrounds, basketball courts, softball fields, the Read Park Pavilion, and the new 2025 Warrior Obstacle Course.

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Park District Administration Center

Read Park is also the home of the Freeport Park District Administration Office, built in 2004. The office is located at 1122 S. Burchard Avenue and is open from 8:00 am to 5:00 pm, Monday through Friday.

Wetlands Preserve

This 57-acre wetlands preserve offers a haven for wildflowers, birds, and wildlife, best viewed from the observation deck. A passive recreation area with migratory nesting sites, it has no marked trails and does not allow boating.

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Knowlton Square

Located at Broadway and Locust, Knowlton Park honors pioneer merchant Dexter A. Knowlton, who donated the land to Freeport. A bronze plaque installed in 1939 marks his legacy. Today, tall Black Maples shade benches and play equipment.

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Stephenson County Historical Society

The Stephenson County Historical Society Museum is located on a beautiful three-acre arboretum planted with many beautiful trees and gardens. Four buildings on the campus are open for tour year-round.

Deacon Davis Courts

Named for Deacon Davis, the courts honor his lasting impact on Freeport youth and his dedication to building opportunity, character, and leadership through sports and mentorship — a true hub for recreation and community connection.

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Oakdale Nature Preserve Park

Just three miles south of Freeport, Oakdale Nature Preserve spans 133 acres of forest, streams, and prairie. Visitors enjoy a new picnic shelter, nature-based playground, and trails in this scenic wooded retreat.

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Taylor Park

The Freeport Park District’s original park, this park spans 74 acres on the city’s east side. It features three lighted softball fields, a concession stand, picnic shelter with BBQ grill, and a notable Abraham Lincoln statue.

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Boat Rentals

Our floating fleet includes colorful paddleboats, canoes and kayaks. Hop in and explore Yellow Creek. See the Twin Caves up close and paddle under the bridge. Purchase tickets at the boat dock.

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Krape Park Carousel

The Krape Park Carousel, a Freeport favorite since 1959, features 20 named horses and historic portraits. Refurbished in 1995 and 2018, it remains a community favorite! Make sure you include a ride on one of the painted ponies during your trip!

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Wing It! Mini Golf

Adventure awaits you! The natural landscape and waterfall that sets Krape Park apart from other parks is mimicked in this mini-golf course that is fun for all ages and is ADA compliant.

Ball Diamond Complex

Freeport Park District fields and courts are open for practices, games, and tournaments on a first-come, first-served basis unless reserved through the District’s Facility Rental process. Visit the Administration Center or call 815-235-6114 to reserve.

Read Park Family Aquatic Center

Make a splash this summer at the Read Park Family Aquatic Center! Enjoy a 40-ft water slide, zero-depth entry pool, spray features, and plenty of family fun—all designed for cooling off and creating memories in the sun. Learn More

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