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1. How do the new lightning strike detectors work and where are they located?

The McKinney Parks and Recreation Department has installed lightning strike detectors for seven fields. Each detector has its own weather station and a public address system. A siren will sound if there is lightning in the area. 

A lightning indicator is also available on the web page for each of the seven fields. If the rectangle is green, the fields at the park are clear. If the rectangle is red, lightning is in the area. The message will also be shown in words. The widgets refresh every five minutes.

Fields with Lightning Detectors

• Al Ruschhaupt Soccer
• Bonnie Wenk Park
• Gabe Nesbitt Park
• Grady Littlejohn Sports Complex
• McKinney Soccer Complex at Craig Ranch
• Mouzon Fields 
• North Park

2. What are city park hours?

City parks are open one hour before dawn until 11 p.m. Erwin Park is open 7 a.m. to 10 p.m.

3. Which parks have reservable pavilions?

Reserve the pavilions at Finch, Towne Lake and Erwin Parks through the Community Center by calling 972-547-2690. You can also reserve in person at the Community Center, 2001 S. Central Expressway

You can reserve the pavilions at Old Settler's Park by calling 972-562-8310 or in person at Old Settler's Recreation Center, 1201 E. Louisiana Street.

4. Is camping allowed in the city?

Camping is allowed at Erwin Park. Please contact the Community Center at 972-547-2690 to reserve a campsite.

5. Are remote controlled boats allowed in McKinney's parks?

No. Electric or gas powered motor boats are not permitted on any water bodies with City parks.

6. Where can I find a trail map?

To find a trail map, please visit our Parks and Trails page.

7. What are the hours of operation for city splash pads?

Splash pads are open from 8 a.m. to 9 p.m. They usually open sometime in May and close for the fall / winter season sometime in September. This is all dependent upon weather conditions.

8. Can I reserve athletic fields?

The City of McKinney does not reserve any of our fields. We do not allow private (non-sanctioned) teams or leagues on any of our athletic fields. 

9. How do I host a special event in a city park?

Please visit the special event permit page and determine whether your event falls within those parameters. If you plan to host it at a city park, you will need Parks and Recreation staff approval. Call Parks and Recreation Admin at 972-547-7480 and you will be directed toward the necessary steps. 

10. How can I check field conditions in the event of bad weather?

Please check QuickScores for any field condition updates. If there is a string of bad weather, all fields will most likely be closed.

11. What is allowed while camping at Erwin park?

• RVs are prohibited for camping at Erwin Park. 
• Grills are allowed at park pavilions. 
• Any fire in a fire pit must be kept contained to the pit.
• You can also have a bounce house or inflatable at any city park but Parks and Recreation administration must have a copy of the liability insurance. Any inflatable needs a generator.
• Alcohol is prohibited at Erwin Park.

12. Can I host a birthday party at a city park?

Every park pavilion is first come, first served with the exception of pavilions at Finch Park, Erwin park and Towne Lake Park. Rent a pavilion at these parks by calling the Community Center at 972-547-2690. Bounce houses, inflatables and grills are allowed at pavilions. The Parks and Recreation department needs a copy of liability insurance on file for any inflatable that will be setup at a park. The inflatable will also need its own generator for power. 

13. How can I volunteer at a city park?

Please contact the McKinney Parks Foundation to inquire about volunteer opportunities at McKinney parks.

14. How can I participate in the design of new parks in McKinney?

Sign up for our e-newsletter to receive citywide notifications and receive Parks and Recreation announcements. This is often how we announce our public surveys and input meetings related to new park designs. 

15. Is alcohol allowed at city parks?

Per city ordinance, alcohol is prohibited at all city parks and facilities.