Prairie Park
2811 Kensington RoadHISTORY
The City developed Prairie Park through its park bond funds between
1985 and 1990.
DESCRIPTION OF PARK
This 72-acre nature preserve is one of Lawrence's most scenic destinations.
Native grasses and wildflowers are present throughout the park, making the area
ideal for the nature-lover.
Mary's Lake, a seven-acre lake complete with a boardwalk and fishing docks, sits on
the south side of the park. A study pond is located on the east side of the lake near
Prairie Park Elementary School.
Prairie Park also has a one-mile trail, dedicated in 2001, with self-guided,
interpretive education stations. The project was partially funded by a Recreational
Trails Fund grant administered by the Kansas Department of Wildlife and Parks.
The hard-surface, recreational trail winds around the perimeter of the 72-acre
park from the neighborhood park south of Prairie Park Elementary School, across
Mary's Lake dam and north to connect to the Prairie
Park Nature Center.
The amenities of the park include:
- Basketball court
- Drinking fountain
- Playground equipment
- Restroom facilities
- Trails
- Tennis courts
- Access to Mary's Lake
SHELTERS
There is one shelter located in Prairie Park. Its capacity is 60-70 individuals.
Its amenities include:
- Barbecue grill
- Electricity
- Lights
- Tables and benches
- Water
Reservations for outdoor shelters and indoor facilities are taken at any of the
community recreation centers including the Community Building, 115 West 11th St.;
East Lawrence Recreation Center, 1245 East 15th St.; Holcom Park Recreation Center,
2700 West 27th St.; Lawrence Indoor Aquatic Center,
4706 Overland Drive and South Park Recreation Center, 1141 Massachusetts St.
See our shelter rentals page
for more information on renting these facilites or call 832-7920.
