Where to Play Pickleball in the Greater Sacramento Area

Do you know the fastest growing sport in the United States? No, it’s not lacrosse or stand-up paddleboarding. It’s pickleball! In fact, pickleball has been growing in popularity for several years, with nearly 5 million people regularly playing the game, according to the Sports & Fitness Industry Association.

Pickleball, which is a combination of badminton, ping pong and tennis, was created in the 1960s by some creative dads who wanted to keep their families occupied during the summer. The game uses a ping pong-like paddle to hit a perforated plastic ball over a net. It can be played with two or four players, inside or outside, on courts similar to, but smaller than, tennis courts.

While it’s not entirely clear how pickleball it got its unique name, one rumor is that it was named for the family dog, Pickles, who liked to chase after the ball. Another rumor is that it came from the rowing term “pickle boat,” used to describe a motley crew of rowers — much like the mishmash of sporting equipment it uses.

The Sacramento area has long since jumped on the pickleball bandwagon, and there are many places throughout the region where you can smash, dink and Erne. So, whether you’re a proud “pickler” or an aspiring one, following are some of the top [public] spots for pickleball in the greater Sacramento area.

Rusch Park | Citrus Heights

Photo courtesy Sunrise Recreation & Park District

This community park in Citrus Heights is one of the most popular spots for pickleball in the Sacramento region. There are 12 dedicated courts with lines and nets, and the lights stay on until 10 p.m.! It’s also home to the Sunrise Pickleball Club, which has reserved drop-in play.

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Roccucci Park | Roseville

In the Roseville area, Roccucci Park is a great place to play pickleball. The free outdoor courts have lines and nets, and there’s also a covered picnic area so you can make a day of it.

West Sacramento Recreation Center | West Sacramento

If you’re looking to play a round of pickleball in West Sacramento, the West Sacramento Recreation Center offers drop-in play Monday and Friday afternoons. Passes are required and can be purchased for the day or month; discounts are available for residents.

Cameron Park Lake | Cameron Park

Photo courtesy Cameron Park CSD

Four lined pickleball courts can be found at this popular spot in Cameron Park. There are eight outdoor courts with permanent lines, but you’ll have to bring your own nets. There is also a small fee for access. If your kiddo interested in pickleball, Cameron Park is offering a pickleball summer camp this year.

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R. Burnett Miller Park | East Sacramento

With two outdoor hard courts, this park in the McKinley Village community of East Sacramento is a solid choice for a game of pickleball. It has permanent lines and nets, plus a shade structure and picnic tables when you need a break.

Auburn Recreation District | Auburn

The Auburn area has three spots for pickleball: two outdoor and one indoor! Regional Park and Meadow Vista Park both have outdoor courts with lines and nets, while the gym at Recreation Park has indoor courts.

YMCA | Sacramento

Photo courtesy YMCA

Although there is a fee to play, the Sacramento Central YMCA is a popular place to play pickleball. They have three indoor courts, with permanent lines and portable nets. They offer drop-in sessions for both beginners and experienced players.

Walnut Park | Davis

Home to the Davis Pickleball Club, this public park in Davis has four outdoor hard courts with permanent lines and nets. Nearby are restrooms. Access is free.

Lembi Park | Folsom

Lembi Park in Folsom has 12 public pickleball courts, with permanent lines and lights. It’s the home of the Folsom Pickleball Club, which offers beginner and intermediate drills as well as tournaments.

Oasis Park | Elk Grove

Photo courtesy City of Elk Grove

With six outdoor courts, Oasis Park is a popular pickleball spot in Elk Grove. There are six dedicated courts with lighting, permanent lines and nets. Plus, there are restrooms and picnic areas.

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Woodland Senior and Community Center | Woodland

This community center in Woodland has free drop-in pickleball for all ages. There are four indoor courts with permanent lines, but you’ll have to bring your own net. Nearby Beamer Park and Crawford Park also have courts. You can visit the Woodland Pickleball Association for more information.

Eastern Oak Park | Sacramento

Located in the Arden-Arcade area, this park has not one, not two, but six dedicated pickleball courts! The outdoor courts are free, with permanent lines and nets, plus adjacent restrooms. The Eastern Oak Pickleball Club plays here.