Parks & Recreation FAQ

How can I check availability for pavilions?

Visit the Facility Rentals page and select your preferred pavilion.

• Available dates are shown in green
• Partially available dates are shown in yellow
• Unavailable dates are shown in gray

What should I do if I can’t pick up my pavilion key on time?

There is no late key pick-up available for pavilion reservations. However, in the case of an emergency, you may contact dispatch at 574-295-7070 for building assistance. A staff member from the Parks Department in Elkhart will be able to assist you.

How can I check if a facility is closed due to weather?

Visit the Parks and Recreation Facebook page for the latest weather-related closure announcements.

How can I reserve pickleball courts?

Elkhart Parks and Recreation currently has six pickleball courts at Studebaker Park. Free pickleball court reservations can be made on our reservation website. 

Follow these steps to reserve your court:

1. Make sure you have a CivicRec account and are logged in. If you don't have an account, please make a free one. 
2. Pick your court.
3. Pick your date and time.
4. Checkout

Please note that reservations must be made at least 1 day in advance. If not reserved, courts are available on a first-come, first-served basis. 

How do I host an event at a City park (like a table, booth, or gathering)?

To host an event at a park in Elkhart, you will need to complete a Use and Event Permit Application, which is available on the Park Board page. The application can be submitted in either paper or electronic format.

Depending on the type and size of your event, additional requirements may apply. These can include an emergency action plan, a certificate of insurance listing the “City of Elkhart” and the “Board of Parks and Recreation” as additionally insured, and possible permits or approvals from the Fire Department, Police Department, Health Department, or Street Department.

For more information, you can review the 2026 Use and Event Permit on the Park Board page. After submission, staff will review your application and reach out if your event must also go through the Event Committee for Board of Works approval prior to Park Board consideration.

When and where does the Farmer’s Market take place?

The indoor Farmer’s Market takes place at the High Dive Pavilion, and the outdoor Farmer’s Market takes place at Kardzhali Park. 

• Indoor season: October through April
• Outdoor season: May through September

Who do I contact if I find an injured animal?

If you find an injured animal on park property:

• If the injury is from natural causes, please allow nature to take its course when possible
• If the animal has been harmed by a man-made hazard (such as fishing line or debris), call 574-295-7275, and a Park Ranger will be dispatched

For animals outside of park property, contact Animal Control or a pest control service.

Can geese be relocated?

No. Geese relocation is not permitted.