Independence, KY Parks
Independence has a growing and vibrant park system.
City of Independence Managed Parks
The City of Independence maintains six parks, offering a range of amenities such as playgrounds, sports facilities, walking trails, and event spaces. These parks are managed by the City of Independence Parks and Recreation Department, and shelter reservations can be made through an online booking system (Skedda) or by calling (859) 356-6264.
Location: 2001 Jack Woods Pkwy, Independence, KY 41051 (behind the City Building and Fire Department off Delaware Crossing)
Size: 26+ acres
Overview: Memorial Park is the flagship park of Independence, established in 2004. It serves as the hub for major city events, including the annual 4th of July celebration, Easter Egg Hunt, Summer Basketball Camp, Party in the Park concert series, and Christmas Walk (featuring an ice skating rink from December 6-8). The park offers a well-maintained playground, basketball courts, pickleball courts, a utility field for soccer or football, walking trails, and a shelter with grills for reservations. The Donna Yeager Amphitheater, named after a former mayor, hosts outdoor performances. This park is ideal for families, sports enthusiasts, and community gatherings.
Location: Not specified in sources, but within Independence city limits
Size: 4.5 acres
Overview: Glenhurst Park is a smaller neighborhood park suitable for walking and family activities. It features a playground, a parking lot, and a pond, making it a scenic spot for leisurely strolls or picnics. The park's compact size makes it ideal for young children and casual outings, with natural scenery enhancing its appeal.
Location: Not specified in sources, but within Independence city limits
Size: Not specified
Overview: Independence Park is one of the city-managed parks, offering basic recreational amenities. Specific details about facilities are limited, but it is maintained for general public use, likely including open spaces or small playgrounds. The park is part of the city's commitment to providing accessible green spaces for residents.
Location: Off Lakearbor Drive, Lakefield Subdivision
Size: 1.5 acres
Overview: Named after former mayor, Marion Schadler Park it provides recreational space for community members.
Location: 883 Stevie's Trail, Independence
Size: 17.5 Acres
Overview: Shadybrook Park is a city-managed park designed for resident enjoyment. Limited information suggests it offers typical park amenities such as green spaces or small recreational facilities. It is maintained to support casual outdoor activities and community use.
Location: 5105 Madison Pike, Independence, KY 41051
Size: 6.8 acres
Overview: Sterling Staggs Park is a versatile park catering to sports enthusiasts and families. It features a basketball court, baseball court, and beach volleyball court, along with a playground and parking lot. The park is suitable for walking and family activities, making it a popular choice for active recreation and community sports.
Kenton County Managed Parks
Kenton County manages three parks within Independence city limits, totaling nearly 725 acres of green space, along with a golf course. These parks are open daily from dawn to dusk, and shelter reservations can be made online. The county's parks emphasize both active and passive recreation, with ongoing development plans for new facilities.
Location: 420 Independence Station Road, Independence, KY 41051
Size: 71.3 acres
Overview: Lincoln Ridge Park is one of the largest and most active county-managed parks in Independence. It features a pond, playgrounds, parking lots, restrooms, and sports facilities, including a baseball court. The park is ideal for walking, family activities, and sports, with its natural scenery and well-maintained trails attracting visitors for hiking or leisurely strolls. Its size and amenities make it a key recreational destination in the area.
Location: Middleton-Mills Rd, Independence, KY 41051
Size: 101.8 acres
Overview: Middleton-Mills Park is the largest county-managed park in Independence, offering extensive facilities for sports and family activities. It includes soccer fields, basketball courts, baseball courts, volleyball courts, and an American football field, as well as playgrounds and parking lots. The park is celebrated for its forest and pond, providing scenic trails for walking and opportunities for picnics or outdoor relaxation. Shelters are available for reservation, making it suitable for large gatherings.
Location: 604 Independence Station Road, Independence, KY 41051 (neighboring Lincoln Ridge Park)
Size: 225 acres
Overview: Approved in August 2020, this park is the largest of Kenton County's parks and is currently open for passive recreation, including hiking, fishing, biking, wildlife observation, and walking. Located along Independence Station Road, it nearly doubles the county's designated park lands. The park is in the development phase, with a master plan being created by Human Nature (hired in 2021) to guide future amenities, such as a multi-use field, dog park, gathering space, playground, and activity spaces. A project manager is being sought to oversee its development, ensuring fiscal responsibility and community-focused design.
Additional Notes
- Shelter Reservations: For city-managed parks, contact the City of Independence Parks and Recreation at (859) 356-5302 or use the online system. For county-managed parks, reservations are handled online through Kenton County's website.
- Dog Parks: Independence has no dedicated dog parks.
- Events and Community Use: Both city and county parks host events like festivals, concerts, and sports tournaments. Memorial Park is particularly active with city-wide celebrations.
- Maintenance and Regulations: City parks are maintained by the Independence Parks and Recreation Department, with permits required for field use or special events. County parks follow ordinances prohibiting motorized vehicles, hunting, open fires, and glass containers, with pets required to be leashed.