James S. Long Regional Park

The Park Authority finally did the right thing for our area and updated decades old playground equipment. Now if they can create a shaded area the playground can be used in the heat of the summer. Hopefully that is what the above framework is supposed to be for???
Let’s hope so. The sun exposure is hard on equipment much less the delicate skin of little ones at play.

Really nice park with lots of great fields and features. The place is great for everyone and would recommend the visit especially if on a long trip or a local with kids. Safe area and well maintained.

I primarily come here for youth soccer games, but this place is pretty large and has lots going on.
The park has trails, baseball fields, soccer fields, basketball courts, tennis courts, picnic pavilions, an equestrian ring, equestrian trails and grass equestrian area. It also has the Gainesville Library in the middle of the park.
From the experiences I’ve had it’s pretty well managed for a public park. The fields are suitable for our games and practices. Parking is never really an issue for me when I visit. Getting out after practice or on a game day can be a hassle, which requires patience.
It’s also a great place to get some good outdoor pictures. Sunrises and sunsets are brilliant here as you have the mountains to the west. Also, when the cicadas come again, they will be here in force if you enjoy that spectacle.
I enjoy this park and look forward to using it for more than just soccer.
*The park is gun carry friendly.

This park has several fields for every sport among two basketball courts. There are several giant gazebos with picnic tables, grill pits, and a huge playground for kids. I would say to try and avoid the after-​school programs and kids summer leagues but the park is so big it wouldn’t affect you unless your a douche.