Perkerson Park in Atlanta: A Local’s Guide to One of the City’s Hidden Gems

Perkerson Park is a 72-acre neighborhood park in Southwest Atlanta that blends big open spaces, towering trees, and active recreation with a laid-back, community feel. If you live in Atlanta or you’re visiting and want a less touristy, more “real Atlanta” outdoor spot, Perkerson Park is worth knowing.

Where Perkerson Park Is and How to Get There

Location:
Perkerson Park
770 Deckner Ave SW
Atlanta, GA 30310

The park sits in the Perkerson/Capitol View area of Southwest Atlanta, just south of the BeltLine’s Westside Trail and a short drive from Downtown.

Getting There by Car

• From Downtown/Midtown: Usually about 10–15 minutes, depending on traffic.
• From Hartsfield–Jackson Atlanta International Airport: Typically 10–15 minutes north via I-85 or SR 166.

There is surface parking around the park, especially along Deckner Ave SW and nearby side streets. Parking is free but can get tight on weekends, especially when sports leagues or events are happening.

Getting There by MARTA

You can combine MARTA and a short walk or rideshare:

• Rail: Oakland City and West End Stations are the closest.
• From either station, many people use a quick rideshare or bike to reach the park.

What Perkerson Park Is Known For

Perkerson Park stands out in Atlanta for a few key reasons:

• Large, shaded green space in a residential part of the city
• A full 18-hole disc golf course
• Ball fields, courts, and open play areas
• A splash pad and playground for kids
• A quieter, more local vibe than major destination parks

It’s the kind of place neighbors use daily, and Atlantans from other parts of the city visit for disc golf, pickup games, or a relaxed picnic under the trees.

Main Features and Amenities

At-a-Glance Park Amenities

Exact amenities on a given day can vary based on maintenance and upgrades, so it’s always wise to have a backup plan.

Disc Golf at Perkerson Park

One of the biggest draws for non-neighbors is the disc golf course.

What to Expect

• 18 holes running through woods, open meadows, and rolling hills
• A mix of short technical shots and longer fairway-style holes
• Natural elevation changes for added challenge
• Dedicated tees and baskets, usually well-marked

Players across the city consider it one of the more interesting and challenging public courses in Atlanta. You’ll see everyone from first-timers throwing a few discs to serious locals with full bags and practice routines.

Tips for Disc Golfers

• 🕒 Timing: Weekends and late afternoons can be busy. Mornings are usually calmer.
• 👟 Footwear: The course can be muddy or slick after rain; wear sturdy shoes.
• ✅ Etiquette: Let faster groups play through, and be aware of people walking near fairways.

If you’re new to disc golf, Perkerson Park is a fun place to learn, but beginners might find some holes challenging. Many locals bring one or two beginner-friendly discs and focus on enjoying the walk.

Kids, Families, and the Splash Pad

Perkerson Park is a family-friendly park with several features that appeal to kids:

Playground

• Modern playground equipment suitable for young children and elementary ages
• Nearby open grass areas for running, kicking a ball, or tossing a frisbee
• Shade from large trees in parts of the play area

Parents often like that the playground and fields are in the same general area, so siblings of different ages can still stay within sight.

Splash Pad

Perkerson Park has a splash pad-style water feature that operates in warm-weather months, usually on a seasonal schedule set by the City of Atlanta Department of Parks and Recreation.

• Great for cooling off in the summer
• Typically push-button activated or on a timed system
• Kids should wear water shoes and clothing that can get wet
• Adults often bring towels, a change of clothes, and snacks

For the latest operating days and hours, many Atlanta families check with:

City of Atlanta Department of Parks and Recreation
233 Peachtree St NE, Suite 1700
Atlanta, GA 30303
Phone: (404) 546-6813

Sports, Exercise, and Active Recreation

If you’re looking to get moving, Perkerson Park offers several options:

Courts and Fields

• Basketball courts for pickup games
• Tennis or multipurpose courts (often used for tennis or casual pickleball, depending on lines and nets)
• Open fields used for soccer, flag football, ultimate, or informal practices

Local leagues and group meetups sometimes use these spaces, especially on weekends and evenings. If you’re planning a big group activity, it’s smart to have a backup spot in case a field is already occupied.

Walking, Jogging, and Casual Fitness

Perkerson doesn’t have a long, continuous loop trail like some larger parks, but you can still:

• Walk the internal paved paths for light exercise
• Use the slight hills for interval training or sprints
• Combine a visit with a nearby neighborhood walk in Capitol View, Perkerson, or Sylvan Hills

People who live nearby often use the park as their “daily movement hub”—a place for stretching, yoga, jogging, or short, repeatable walking routes.

Picnics, Gatherings, and Pavilions

Perkerson Park is popular for informal gatherings, birthday parties, and neighborhood events.

Picnic Options

• Picnic tables scattered around the park
• Grills near some tables (bring charcoal and cleanup supplies)
• Plenty of shaded lawn areas for blankets and picnic setups

Covered Shelter / Pavilion

There is usually at least one covered pavilion that works well for:

• Birthday parties
• Family reunions
• Community meetups
• Small celebrations

If you’re planning a larger group event or want to reserve a pavilion, reservations typically go through the City of Atlanta’s park reservation system, managed by:

Office of Special Events – City of Atlanta
55 Trinity Ave SW
Atlanta, GA 30303
Phone: (404) 330-6000

Many Atlantans choose to reserve ahead for weekend dates to avoid conflicts.

Safety, Comfort, and Park Etiquette

Like most in-town parks, Perkerson Park is widely used and appreciated, but it helps to be mindful and prepared.

Safety & Awareness

• ✅ Daytime visits are typically the most active and comfortable
• 🔐 Lock your car and avoid leaving valuables in plain sight
• 👀 Stay aware of your surroundings, especially if you’re alone or in less-traveled sections

Locals often feel most comfortable using well-populated areas—around the playground, courts, and main fields—particularly in early morning or late evening.

Comfort Tips

• Bring water, especially in summer; shaded areas help, but Atlanta heat is real.
• Bug spray can help during mosquito season, especially near wooded spots.
• Wear sturdy shoes if you plan to explore the disc golf course or natural areas.
• Pack hand sanitizer or wipes, as restrooms may have limited supplies at times.

Park Etiquette

To keep Perkerson Park enjoyable for everyone:

• 🗑️ Use trash and recycling bins; if they’re full, consider taking your trash home.
• 🐕 Leash dogs and clean up after them.
• 🎵 Keep music at a considerate volume.
• 🚭 Follow posted rules about smoking, alcohol, and grilling.

Pets at Perkerson Park

Perkerson Park doesn’t function as a full dog park with separate off-leash areas, so pet owners typically:

• Keep dogs on a leash in common spaces
• Use the open fields for light fetch or walking when not crowded
• Avoid letting dogs run through the disc golf fairways when players are nearby

Bringing waste bags, water, and a portable bowl makes it easier to stay out longer, especially in warmer months.

When to Visit Perkerson Park

The park can feel different depending on time of day and season.

Best Times of Day

• Morning: Quieter, cooler, popular with walkers and dog owners
• Afternoon: More families, kids, and casual parkgoers
• Evening (before dark): Sports, pickup games, and disc golfers

City parks typically close at dusk, and it’s wise to wrap up your visit before dark.

Best Seasons

• Spring: Mild weather, ideal for picnics, disc golf, and casual sports
• Summer: Splash pad and shade make it popular with families
• Fall: Comfortable temperatures and colorful trees
• Winter: Quieter, but still good for walking and field activities on nice days

How Perkerson Park Fits into Atlanta’s Park System

Perkerson Park is part of the City of Atlanta’s network of parks, which includes well-known destinations like Piedmont Park, Grant Park, and Westside Park. What makes Perkerson different is its neighborhood feel:

• Less of a tourist draw, more of a local everyday park
• Strong community presence from surrounding neighborhoods
• A standout disc golf course, which attracts visitors from all over the metro area

If you live in Southwest Atlanta, Perkerson may become your go-to park. If you’re visiting from another part of the city, it’s a chance to experience a less commercialized, more residential side of Atlanta’s green spaces.

Practical Contacts and Next Steps

If you want to plan a visit, ask about reservations, or confirm amenities:

City of Atlanta Department of Parks and Recreation
233 Peachtree St NE, Suite 1700
Atlanta, GA 30303
Phone: (404) 546-6813

For larger events or questions about special uses such as permitted gatherings:

Office of Special Events – City of Atlanta
55 Trinity Ave SW
Atlanta, GA 30303
Phone: (404) 330-6000

For everyday use, though, you can simply head to 770 Deckner Ave SW, bring what you need for the day—discs, a ball, snacks, or just a book—and enjoy one of Southwest Atlanta’s most versatile and under-the-radar parks.