Dottie Jordan Recreation Center

The Dottie Jordan Recreation Center offers activities for youth, teens, and senior citizens,including Therapeutic Recreation programs for teens and adults with disabilities. The park consists of a multi-use field, a playscape, two-lighted tennis courts, a lighted basketball court, a walking trail, one multi-purpose room, kitchen/computer lab area, a community garden, and a swimming pool.

Named after an AISD orchestra teacher, Dottie Jordan lived across the street and died in March 1973 at the age of 32. Interested in the park, Miss Jordan first spoke to City Council in 1972 when the park was threatened with a plan to build condominiums. The City of Austin purchased the 11.5 acres of parkland that comprises the Dottie Jordan Park in November, 1973.

Per the COVID-19 Mayoral declaration, the Center is closed to the public effective Monday, March 16^th . Please check the Closure page for update.

Summer Program

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 Camp

Beginning June 21
In-person Summer Camp (nature, art, general)

Beginning July 6
Summer Playground Program

New 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

Stay Active with Austin Parks and Recreation’s online Virtual Programming!

Stay Playful with our Virtual Afterschool Clubs:

Youth Sports

The Austin Parks and Recreation Department offers year-round co-ed youth sports that 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.

Toddler Sports

Therapeutic Recreation

Since Spring 2020, Dottie Jordan Recreation Center has been offering Therapeutic Recreation programs for citizens of Austin with differing abilities. These therapeutic programs are designed by Certified Therapeutic Recreation Specialists (CTRS) and facilitated by our team of trained and dedicated therapeutic Activity Specialists to ensure a meaningful and successful leisure experience.

Dottie Jordan Recreation Center is now the second location of the Good Neighbor Adventure Club (GNAC) which is a recreation based adult day program for individuals with intellectual, developmental and physical disabilities. The program provides opportunities to improve social interaction skills, develop peer relationships, learn lifetime leisure skills and build the self-confidence necessary for a high quality of life. This program is currently accepting applications!

Good Neighbor Adventure Club (GNAC) Flyer

Good Neighbor Adventure Club (GNAC) Brochure

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.

Pickleball (PDF)
Bringing Seniors Together
Therapeutic Recreation Outreach Programs (PDF) | Calendar (PDF) | Special Events (PDF)
Smooth and E-Z Dance
The Groovers
Kokoro Judo
Community Garden

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.