HistoryThe Austin Parks and Recreation Department has been the trusted steward of the City of Austin's public lands since 1928. As such, we protect and maintain parkland and our urban forest. We preserve trails, and offer a variety of sports, recreation, educational enrichment, arts programs, cultural opportunities, nature and aquatic activities. Our Department is as diverse as the community we serve. As in so many aspects of life, the key to running a successful organization is having the ability to strike a balance between young and old, tradition and innovation, and the needs of one versus the needs of many. Keeping this in mind, our employees continually strive to honor the past while embracing the challenges of the future, and to serve an entire community while maintaining meaningful connections with individual participants.SpecialtiesThe purpose of the Parks and Recreation Department is to provide, protect and preserve a park system that promotes quality recreational, cultural and outdoor experiences for the Austin community.