Roanoke County Parks, Recreation & Tourism operates more than 40 parks and facilities across the county, offering everything from youth sports leagues and aquatics to hiking, camps, and community events for families of every age and interest.

The Quick Facts

What it is: Roanoke County’s parks, recreation, and tourism department, running more than 40 parks and facilities, along with trails, greenways, and community centers across the county.
Address: Athletics, Administration & Other Services, 4818 Starkey Rd, Roanoke, VA 24018
Phone: (540) 387-6078
Who it’s for: Every Roanoke Valley family, with programs ranging from toddler classes to adult leagues and everything in between.
Cost: Varies by program, but the Rec Bucks program offers fee waivers for qualifying residents.
Best for: Families looking for youth sports, swim lessons, outdoor recreation, or a free community event to build a weekend around. 

Why Choose Roanoke County Parks, Recreation & Tourism

If you’ve ever tried to piece together a season of activities for your kid across a handful of different websites, Roanoke County Parks, Recreation & Tourism keeps most of it under one roof. They operate more than 40 park properties, along with miles of trails and greenways and several community centers, so families have real options close to home no matter where in the valley they live. Signature spots like Green Ridge Recreation Center offer an indoor pool, gymnasium, and indoor walking track, while Explore Park, a 1,100-acre property off the Blue Ridge Parkway, gives families access to hiking, biking, and even zip-lining.

Why Families Love It

Programs here run wider than most people expect, from youth athletics and swim lessons to cultural arts classes like pottery and dance, plus outdoor programs like hiking and horseback riding and community events like the Blue Ridge Kite Festival. There’s also a therapeutic recreation program built specifically around inclusive access, and Rec Bucks, a program designed to make sure cost doesn’t get in the way of a great activity for families who qualify. Splash Valley Water Park gives families a nearby summer option with water slides and a sprayground, right next to Green Ridge Recreation Center.

What to Expect When Signing Up

Registration for most programs happens online, and it helps to create an account ahead of time rather than scrambling once a season opens. Program offerings and pricing vary depending on the activity, so it’s worth browsing their current program guide before committing to a specific class or league.