Discover a 554-acre oasis just outside Louisville, where the once rolling farmland has transformed into some of Kentucky’s premier indoor and outdoor recreation facilities. Whether you fancy a refreshing swim, a game of tennis, or want to bring your pet to the dog park, we have it all!
Winter Operations:
- Park Grounds: Open year-round. The park closes daily at 10 p.m. and reopens at dawn each day.
- Trails and some access points may close daily at dusk.
Top Five Activities:
Outdoor Archery:
Test your skills at the only outdoor public archery range in Louisville.
Swimming and Splash Park:
Take a refreshing dip in the largest public outdoor swimming pool and splash park in Louisville.
Hiking along Goose Creek Nature Trail:
Explore the shaded Goose Creek Nature Trail on a leisurely hike.
Supercross BMX Track:
Experience the thrill of riding on one of the six Supercross BMX tracks in the nation.
Guided Hikes and Educational Programs:
Join an interpreter for a guided hike or educational program.
Pool & Splash Pad – CLOSED
- Children under 18 must have a responsible, paid adult present at all times for safety.
- For pool house information, call 502-429-7270.
Pricing for Pool:
- Ages 18 & up: $10 weekdays; $12 weekends
- Ages 3-17: $8 weekdays; $10 weekends
- Ages 2 & under: FREE
Dog Park – Sawyer Dog Park:
- First official off-leash dog park in the community.
- Located across Freys Hill Road, divided into areas for small and all dogs.
- Membership to the Louisville Dog Run Association is required.
Astronomy Center:
- Hosts free monthly Star Parties by the Louisville Astronomical Society.
- Gaze through telescopes and participate in space programs.
Orienteering:
- Enjoy orienteering, a sport in woods navigation, using a map and compass.
- A 4.2 km permanent orienteering course is available.
Archery Range:
- Free and open to the public with target distances ranging from 10 to 40 yards.
- Group archery lessons available; instructors are NASP certified.
Badminton:
- Activities Building has a gym with four badminton/pickleball courts.
- Open on specified days; participants need to bring their own equipment.
Outdoor Basketball:
- Full-court outdoor basketball court available from dawn to dusk.
- Gymnasium rental opportunities starting at $75.00/hr.
Birding:
- Explore diverse bird species year-round.
- Attend Star Parties organized by the Louisville Astronomical Society.
BMX Track:
- Features one of the best BMX tracks in the country.
- Hosts National BMX Grand Championships every Labor Day Weekend.
Community Gardening:
- Public gardens available for exercise, healthy eating, and socializing.
- Costs $40 for a 20’ x 20’ plot or $15 for a raised bed for the season.
Hiking Trails:
- 1-mile fitness trail and 1.25-mile Goose Creek nature trail.
- Open year-round, excluding bicycles on the Goose Creek trail.
Model Airplane Flying:
- Radio-controlled airfield available for pilot members of the River City Remote Controllers.
- Open year-round; membership required.
Pickleball:
- 16 outdoor pickleball courts free to the public.
- Indoor pickleball available in winter for $5/person.
Picnicking:
- Three picnic shelters available on a first-come-first-serve basis.
- Food service through Fun Food Kitchen and Deli; reservations possible.
Playground:
- Large playground with three age-appropriate play areas.
Soccer and Softball:
- 14 soccer fields available; leagues run by Sawyer Youth Soccer Association.
- Softball field information on Derby City Sports Facebook or call 502-639-7777.
Tennis:
- Two indoor tennis courts open year-round.
- Outdoor tennis courts free to the public from 7 a.m. to dusk daily.
Meetings & Events
Host your meetings, weddings, and pool parties at the Sawyer Hayes Community Center, boasting over 5,720 square feet of space accommodating up to 200 people, depending on your event.
For details and availability of the Sawyer Hayes Community Center, contact 502-245-2296. Poolside birthday parties are an option from Memorial Day through Labor Day.
For information about hosting a birthday party at the pool, call 502-429-7270. If you seek more information about groups and weddings, please reach out for assistance.
To contact the Sawyer Hayes Community Center Office directly, please call 502-245-2296. The park is home to the Sawyer Hayes Community Center, an exquisite venue for various events. Nestled in the arboreal surroundings of E.P. “Tom” Sawyer, this modern construction seamlessly brings the outdoor theme indoors with its high wooden beams, Kentucky-inspired artwork, and stunning views of the natural scenery. The center hosts a diverse range of events, including weddings, business gatherings, anniversary parties, and reunions.
As Louisville’s only state park, E.P. “Tom” Sawyer offers a central hub for recreational activities and serves as a charming setting for any occasion. Located on the east end of Louisville, the park boasts indoor and outdoor basketball courts, an outdoor pool, picnic tables, pavilion rentals, team-building activities, an archery range, pickleball, softball, geocaching, outdoor volleyball, an orienteering course, walking trails, and tennis facilities.
The Sawyer Hayes Community Center, with over 5,720 square feet of space, can accommodate up to 200 people, depending on the nature of your event. The center offers various vendor choices and access to park amenities, providing a customizable experience that is truly unique.
For inquiries or to make your event extra special, please click here to contact the Sawyer Hayes Community Center at E.P. Sawyer State Park.
E.P. ‘Tom’ Sawyer State Park stands as a mecca for both indoor and outdoor recreation enthusiasts, offering an excellent location to host your event.
Trails
Fitness Trail
Indulge in enjoyable exercise on our 1-mile fitness trail! Take a stroll along the trail, appreciating the Maples, Oaks, and Sycamores that surround you.
As you approach the pool area, discover a fitness zone on the trail where you can pause for some strength and cardio training. Remember to keep your dogs on a leash and clean up after your pet.
Bicycles are permitted only on paved surfaces, excluding the BMX track.
Goose Creek Trail
Embark on a 1.25-mile loop trail with the Goose Creek Nature Trail.
This scenic path guides you through grassy meadows, wooded areas, and alongside the riparian zone near Goose Creek.
Abundant wildlife, including White Tail Deer, American Turkey, resident and migratory wild birds, can often be spotted along this trail.
Obtain a trail map at the Recreation Office or download one from our website today.
Bicycles are permitted only on paved surfaces, excluding the BMX track.