Power Infrastructure

Parks & Recreation

The City of Cosmopolis is proud to maintain several parks and green spaces that provide opportunities for recreation, community gatherings, outdoor activities, and enjoying the natural beauty of Grays Harbor. From neighborhood playgrounds and picnic shelters to walking trails, athletic courts, and community events, our parks are places where residents of all ages can connect, play, and explore.

Lion's Park

Image Courtesy of Andrea Watts / The Daily World

Formerly known as DeWitt Park, Lion's Park has become one of Cosmopolis' main gathering places for families and community events.

In partnership with the Cosmopolis Lions Club, the park has undergone significant improvements in recent years. Special thanks to the Grays Harbor Community Foundation for funding our brandnew playground, updated amenities, and a covered picnic shelter. Throughout the year, the park hosts community celebrations, family activities, and events organized by both the City and the Lions Club.

Lion's Park is also home to the annual Festival in the Park, held each August or September. Be sure to visit our News & Events page for upcoming dates and event information.

Highland Park

Nestled in the hills of one of Cosmopolis' residential neighborhoods, Highland Park has been transformed into a vibrant gathering place for residents of all ages through the efforts of the City, volunteers, and community partners.

Amenities include:

Modern playground
Pickleball and basketball court
Covered picnic shelter
Outdoor fitness equipment
Benches and picnic tables

Whether you're meeting friends for a game of pickleball, bringing the kids to the playground, or relaxing under the shelter, Highland Park is a wonderful place to spend time outdoors.

Makarenko Park

Makarenko Park is one of Cosmopolis' largest outdoor recreation areas, offering approximately 39 acres of wooded trails, open spaces, and recreational facilities. Whether you're enjoying a peaceful walk through the forest, attending a youth sporting event, or exploring the community garden, the park offers something for residents and visitors of all ages.

The park was donated to the City of Cosmopolis by Olivetta Faulkner in memory of Major D. S. Makarenko, preserving this beautiful natural space for future generations to enjoy.

Trails & Outdoor Recreation

Makarenko Park features more than two miles of paved and gravel trails winding through its wooded landscape. The trails provide opportunities for walking, jogging, and enjoying the natural beauty of the Pacific Northwest.

With its combination of forested areas and open fields, the park is a popular destination for outdoor recreation throughout the year.

Youth Soccer & Cross-Country

Makarenko Park plays an important role in youth athletics throughout Grays Harbor County. Its two large soccer fields have hosted Grays Harbor Youth Soccer practices and league games during the spring and fall seasons, bringing young athletes and their families together from across the region.

The park also serves as a venue for local cross-country meets, including events hosted by the Aberdeen School District. Its trails and natural terrain provide a scenic setting for student athletes to compete.

Community Garden

Makarenko Park is also home to the City's Community Garden. The City is currently working to revitalize the garden and is looking for volunteers interested in helping restore and grow this valuable community resource.

Interested in helping? Stop by City Hall to complete a volunteer application or contact the Mayor to learn how you can get involved.

Mill Creek Park

Mill Creek Park is one of Cosmopolis' most scenic natural areas, offering residents and visitors a peaceful setting to enjoy nature, local wildlife, and outdoor recreation.

Recreation & Recent Improvements

Thanks in part to a $100,000 grant from the Washington State Recreation and Conservation Office, Mill Creek Park has undergone significant improvements to its recreational facilities.

The project included resurfacing and restriping the tennis courts, repairing court fencing, and improvements to the basketball facilities. Additional work was planned to improve park trails, restrooms, picnic areas, and access to Mill Creek Pond and its fish ladder.

In June 2025, the City celebrated the park improvements with a community ribbon-cutting event, bringing residents together for live music, food, and festivities.

Nature & Community Gatherings

Beyond its recreational facilities, Mill Creek Park offers wooded trails and opportunities to explore the area's natural surroundings. The park's covered picnic shelter provides a welcoming space for family gatherings, picnics, and community events.

The City also partners with the Grays Harbor College Forestry Program and Grays Harbor Conservation District on conservation and stewardship efforts to help preserve this natural space for future generations.

Reserve a Park Shelter

Planning a birthday party, family reunion, picnic, or community gathering?

Covered picnic shelters are available to reserve at Lion's Park, Highland Park, and Mill Creek Park.

No brickette or wood barbecues in the parks.
No smoking, vaping, or alcohol in the parks.
No inflatable or blowup/bouncy toys in city parks.

Reservation Information

Reservation Fee: $100
Deposit: $50 due when the reservation is made
Remaining Balance: $50 due on the day of your reservation

To reserve a shelter, please visit Cosmopolis City Hall during regular business hours.