McFarland Parks Make Life Better

Healthy Play in McFarland, USA

Fit, Fun and Healthy!

McFarland is known for nine California state titles in high school long-distance running. The legendary accomplishment was chronicled in a feature film, McFarland, USA, but McFarland didn't become an athletic legend by accident. This is a hardworking community with a strong commitment to health, wellness and physical education. Being active is part of the town's DNA. 

We were honored to visit McFarland Park during our 2018 Parks Make Life Better Tour. We saw how community leaders combined research and education with grant funding to create an active and inclusive space for children and families. Congratulations McFarland Recreation and Parks District. You make life better for the people who call McFarland home.

Jeff Nickell - District Manager, McFarland Recreation and Park District "Parks and recreation are at the center of a community's quality of life. We want to have quality facilities for our residents...we are fortunate to have partners like CPRS and PlayCore who helped us."
Stephanie Stephens - Executive Director, California Parks and Recreation Society "Play brings communities together. We’re excited to share how Parks Make Life Better®, share state-wide training, and help local communities put research into action!”
About McFarland and the McFarland Park Project

Growing Population

The population of McFarland, California in 2010 was 12,000. Today it is over 21,000 - a population growth of more than 75%.

Families and Children

McFarland Recreation and Parks District is committed to providing active play opportunities for children. That's important because 70% of the households in McFarland include children under the age of 18. 

Inclusive Playground

The playground at McFarland Park was designed using Me2®: 7 Principles of Inclusive Playground Design®. Published by PlayCore, in partnership with Utah State University Center for Persons with Disabilities, Me2 is a comprehensive guide for designing play spaces for people of all abilities.

Youth Physical Activity

Providing opportunities for children to be physically active was important to McFarland Recreation and Parks District. Using the principles and curriculum found in PlayOn!, the city created a space that aligns with national standards for physical education.

National Demonstration Sites

The new playground at McFarland Park is a National Demonstration Site for Inclusive Play and for Youth Physical Activity. Learn about National Demonstration Site designations at playcore.com/nds.

2018 CPRS Parks Make Life Better Tour Learn More