Barnett Park stretches out along the Republican River at the southern edge of McCook on Hwy 83 and provides a wide variety of nature-related activities for all ages. One of the park's favorite attractions are the large groups of ducks and Canadian geese that gather in to gobble up any bread crumbs that you throw their way. The park is covered with several ponds that are well-maintained and stocked with fish for children's fishing. Enjoy excellent playground areas and sand volleyball courts during the summer and an ice skating area in winter. Walking trails run deep into the woods along the Republican River for those who enjoy hiking or bicycling. Barnett's an ideal place for picnics, with tables, picnic shelters and grills conveniently located throughout the park. Of course, there is plenty of room for a traditional picnic blanket spread out across the grass, and an out-of-the-way spot can always be found.

Elks City Park, on West 5th Street, features concrete-covered tennis courts that also serve as an excellent place for smooth rollerblading, street hockey and skateboarding. A large, open lawn makes for a great place in the sun to spread a picnic blanket or to play frisbee, hacky sack or catch.

Karrer Park rests at the end of the Kelley Creek Walking Trail. This free tourist camp is conveniently located at the east edge of McCook on Hwy 6 & 34. The park offers free camping, modern restrooms and showers, picnic areas with tables and grills, electrical hookups for RVs and a pay phone.

Kelley Park covers grassy hills on the northeast side of McCook. A huge picnic shelter rests right next to the Swimming Pool, making Kelley Park a favorite for large family get togethers and gatherings during the summer. The pool, playground area and basketball courts are all within ear-shot, when it's time to eat, and the smooth-surfaced courts are a great place for rollerblading. A second shelter sits at the north end of the park, along the Kelley Creek. Sand volleyball courts, horse shoe pits, tall shade trees, 18 hole disc golf course and plenty of space allow for all sorts of outdoor activities. On the west side, Bolles Canyon offers large open lawns, surrounded by mature trees.

Kelley Creek Walking Trail starts near the end of Norris Ave., passes through Kelley Park and stretches 11 miles to Karrer Park. Trek the trail, passing horse corrals, residential areas and the Broken Tee Golf Course.

Norris Park rests within McCook's Heritage Square area along Norris Avenue. The Historic Bandshell is a main attraction during cultural festivals and celebrations. Experience summer concerts, live storytelling and other forms of entertainment, while relaxing on lush green lawns surrounded by trees. The park also features a playground, picnic tables and public restrooms, as well as a Nebraska State Historical Marker and the Copper Kettle Monument. See Also: McCook, Nebraska Historical Attractions

All-American Ball Parks
Felling Field • Home of Little League since 1932. East 7th and D St.
Merv Breland Memorial Field • Baseball, softball and fast pitch.
Seasonal games, four fields. West 10th and M Street.