The Amarillo Parks and Recreation Department operates under the following mission:

"To enhance the quality of life for Amarillo citizens through quality Parks, Programs, and People".

Parks: Parkland, open space, and recreational facilities serve an important fuction for the City.The Park system improves the quality of life by providing recreational opportunities for people and protecting the natural environment. Park and open space facilities are comprised of school playgrounds, school parks, linear and ornamental parks, neighborhood, community, and regional parks.Of the 2,728 acres dedicated to parks and open area, 2,095 acres are developed for public use that includes two 36-hold golf complexes containing 732 acres of land. The department currently has 61 recognized parks.

Programs: The Parks & Recreation Department is comprised of several divisions to include Park Administration, Park Maintenance, Athletics, Aquatics, Recreation, Special Events, Golf, Tennis and the Zoo.On an annual basis, the department provides a wide variety of recreational and leisure opportunities for all ages and interests. Information regarding the department and the many opportunities it provides is available in a number of print media to include our Park Guide and Summer In The City publications, brochures, fliers, water bill inserts, newspaper printings and public service announcements.The department also works with local radio and television outlets to promote our programs and activities.

People: The Parks & Recreation Department is proud to have sponsored or co-sponsored programs, activities or events that touched over 650,000 participants this past year.In addition, thousands of other individuals have taken advantage of the parks, city lakes, trails and open spaces available to them throughout the community.