Dittmar Recreation center promotes individual and community wellness that enhances the quality of life by unleashing the human potential through services and programs that meet the emotional, social and physical needs of the far South Austin community.
This 12.6 acre park is bordered on the north by Dittmar Road, on the south and west by South Boggy Creek, and on the east, private property. Park amenities include a 6,405 square foot recreation center, which has a multi-purpose room, a dance/assembly room, and rooms specifically designed for teen and pre-k aged participants. The park also includes a 13,368 square foot gymnasium with basketball/volleyball courts, a weight room, and shower facilities. Outdoor amenities include a jogging trail, two playing fields, playscape, and on outdoor swimming pool which varies in depth from 3 to 11 feet.
The Austin Parks and Recreation Department purchased the land in 1985 with funds approved from a 1982 bond election; for A. B. Dittmar Park, named for Adolph Barnhart Dittmar, who once owned and ran a large dairy farm on the land. A. B. Dittmar Recreation Center opened in the summer of 1988 to provide Far South Austin citizens summer day camp programs, a variety of leisure classes, swimming, track and field, and an outdoor basketball facility.
Per the COVID-19 Mayoral declaration, the Center is closed to the public effective Monday, March 16th . Please check the Closure page for update.
- Summer Program
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We are excited to announce the launch of Summer Camp 2021. In accordance with federal, state and local health authorities, the Parks and Recreation Department (PARD) has adopted a series of modified guidelines to ensure COVID19 health and safety measures are met. Such guidelines include the use of masks, daily wellness screenings prior to entry, utilization of the pod model, and other modifications to activities within camp.
Beginning June 7
Virtual “Stay Creative” Summer CampBeginning June 21
In-person Summer Camp (nature, art, general)Beginning July 6
Summer Playground ProgramNew this year is the introduction of a lottery system. The lottery system will help us more equitably offer limited spaces to families. To ensure a smooth registration process, please read the important information below regarding the new lottery registration process for 2021. CLICK HERE for lottery enrollment step-by-step procedures.
IMPORTANT DATES
April 19 - May 16
Registration for all families.
To register, please go to: www.austintexas.gov/parksonline.May 19
Specialty Camps (Nature Based, Inclusion and Museums and Cultural Centers) will begin contacting participants who received a lottery spot in camp.May 26
General Recreation Camps will begin contacting participants who received a lottery spot in camp. Be on the lookout for an email or phone call as parents will have a very short turnaround time to confirm spots.All individuals selected for camp will be asked to pay a $20 deposit for all selected weeks to ensure enrollment. The Department has made all deposits refundable this year.
Financial aid applications are being accepted.
Parks and Recreation staff is looking forward to providing a fun and meaningful summer program experience for your family that will prioritize the health and well-being of all campers and staff. Should you have any questions, please contact the recreation center where you registered.
The Austin Parks and Recreation Department provides opportunities wherein all individuals are accepted, included and welcomed to participate, play and recreate together. Individuals interested in additional services are encouraged to request modifications to participate in our programs. Should you or a family member have a disability or special need that requires assistance for participation in our programs, please call 512-974-3914 or refer to: https://www.austintexas.gov/department/inclusion-unit
- Virtual Programs
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Stay Active with Austin Parks and Recreation’s online Virtual Programming!
Stay Playful with our Virtual Afterschool Clubs:
- Food Programs
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NOTICE: Due to inclement weather, the Central Texas Food Bank Meal Distribution will be cancelled at all recreation facilities for Thursday, February 11, 2021.
Out-Of-School Time Youth Programs
The Parks and Recreation Department is committed to offering programs that foster Youth Development in a safe and caring environment. We believe in creating opportunities for youth that expose them to critical thinking and leadership development while helping explore interest through enhancements, arts, and active play. Come and experience the spectrum of opportunities with the Parks and Recreation Youth Programs.
- Dittmar Spring Program Guide (PDF)
- Afterschool website
- Youth Summer Camp(PDF)
Toddler Programs
The Parks and Recreation Department is committed to offering programs that foster Youth Development in a safe and caring environment. We believe in creating opportunities to help explore interest through enhancements, arts, and active play.
- Toddler Sports FUNdamentals
- Pre-K Play
- Pre-K Summer Play
Youth Sports
The Austin Parks and Recreation Department offers year-round co-ed youth sports that teach fundamentals and stress sportsmanship. Our seasonal leagues provide a safe recreational setting structured for a beginner to intermediate player. Lead by volunteer coaches, games are noncompetitive in order to emphasize teamwork and physical fitness.
- 2019-2020 Sports Guide (PDF)
- Youth Track (PDF)
Teen Programs
The Parks and Recreation Department is committed to offering programs that encourage Youth Development through outdoor exploration, the arts, critical thinking, and leadership development.
- Teen After School
- Teen Summer Camp (PDF)
- Friday Night Hoops
Adult and 50+ Programs
The Parks and Recreation Department offers a variety of Senior Programs and Services for adults and people 50 years of age and older. We are committed to providing an environment that encourages active and healthy lifestyles through recreational and educational programs and services.
- Zumba
- 55+ Fun Club
- 55+ Club Schedule
- Strength and Stretch (PDF)
- Line Dance
- Golden Rollers
- Senior Sewing Class (PDF)
Community and Special Events
The Parks and Recreation Department provides opportunities for families, friends and neighbors to come together and socialize, meet new people, enhance existing relationships, and create community.
Open Play and Weight Room Hours
Gym Front Desk: (512)974-6096
Weight Room Hours: Closed until further notice
- Open Play Schedule (PDF)
- Pickleball
- Program Documents and Forms
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Virtual Programs Release Form (PDF)
Adult Registration Form (PDF)
Youth Registration Form (PDF)
Youth Financial Assistance - English (PDF)
Youth Financial Assistance - Spanish (PDF)
- Facility and Grounds Rental Information
Dittmar Recreation Center Staff
Clay Shelton Supervisor
Mark Vasquez Program Coordinator
Simone Pollard Program Specialist
Alexis Tovar Program Specialist
Rudy Reyna Program Specialist
Marivel Simpson Administrative Assistant
Angelina Carbullido Program Instructor
David Wynn Building and Grounds Assistant
