The Austin Parks and Recreation Department Parks Prescription Program aims to bridge the medical community with local parks and recreation opportunities by prescribing time in nature to prevent or treat health problems.
The City of Austin Parks and Recreation Department (PARD) invests in the health of our community. Over years, scientific study consistently affirms what PARD has observed to be true - spending time outdoors, especially in natural settings, has significant health benefits. The benefits include both improvements to the physical and mental well-being of individuals, families and communities, as well as the environment.
Nature is Community
Nature's Side Effects
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Better Mood |
Improved Heart Health |
Increased Energy |
Social Engagement |
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Improved Memory |
Improved Sleep |
Longer Life |
Reduction of Pain |
Getting Started
Want to get started enjoying or prescribing the health benefits of nature? Select one of the buttons below for patients and providers to learn more.
- Existing Parks Prescription Programs
- Park Prescription Materials
- Nature Benefits Poster Series
- Nature Benefits Posters Series en Español
- Parks Prescription Newsletters
- Park Activities
My Austin Parks Guide
The My Austin Parks Guide is a map to local parks with their amenities, ADA accessibility and transportation options. The maps contain bus routes, bike friendly roads, and how to access the park by foot.
- My Austin Parks (MAP) Guia en Español
- My Austin Parks (MAP) Guide in Chinese - 中文
- My Austin Parks (MAP) Guide in Vietnamese
- My Austin Parks (MAP) Guide in English
- My Austin Parks (MAP) Guide in Korean - 한국어
Loose Parts Kits are a collection of items that are used to build and create in a free, unstructured environment that promote creativity, imagination, cooperation and communication, and fosters connection to nature and stewardship values.
Find more FREE FITNESS by visiting one of our recreation centers with exercise equipment and weight room hours, view open gym schedule & fitness room hours. Call site to confirm the schedule has not changed.