Virginia L. Brown Recreation Center

Virginia L. Brown Recreation Center sits on 15 acres of land in the heart of the St. John's neighborhood in northeast Austin, just east of Interstate 35 and south of U.S. Highway 183 and offers youth, teen, adult, and senior programs and a range of special events. The center consists of a lobby area, one activity room, a full size kitchen and shares the use of the gymnasium with the J.J. Pickle Elementary School.

Opened on January 27, 2002, the St. John's Community Center is a first time collaboration between the City of Austin and the Austin Independent School District. The center houses the Austin Parks and Recreation Department, the Austin Police Department, the Austin Public Library, Health and Human Services, three joint use conference rooms, as well as the J.J. Pickle Elementary School. Today, St. John's is a diverse community, which is rich in history and tradition.

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:

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.

Afterschool Kids Club
School Day Camps (PDF)
Boredom Busters
Youth Summer Camp

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.

Youth Winter Basketball
Youth Spring Soccer
Youth Summer Basketball
Toddler Sports FUNdamentals

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 Program
Totally Cool Totally Art (TCTA)

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 Fundamentals

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.

Senior Program
Yoga
DFW Swing
Zumba
Men Fellowship Basketball
Pickleball (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.