Cottonwood Park

A Fresh Face for a Neighborhood Site

Tucked into the intersection of McDonald and McMakin Streets in McKinney, Cottonwood Park spans a cozy 3.2 acres. This neighborhood park received a significant makeover recently - a 2021 renovation that came with a $3.17 million price tag.

The revamp transformed the space with designed areas for everyone from toddlers to teens to adults looking for a peaceful afternoon outdoors.

Playground Paradise

Kids' eyes light up when they spot the playground's star attractions - zip lines that have become the unofficial favorite among the older crowd. There's also this awesome rocket-shaped climbing structure that's as fun to scale as it is practical - the top deck doubles as a picnic spot with a pretty sweet view of the park.

Parents can breathe easy about safety here. Instead of the typical woodchips or gravel, the ground is covered with rubber cushioning to soften any tumbles. The littlest visitors haven't been forgotten either - there's a dedicated toddler zone with age-appropriate play equipment where the small fry can have their own adventures.

More Than Just a Playground

When Texas heat hits, the seasonal splash pad becomes the park's hotspot. It's a good spot to cool down on hot summer days. For the sports-minded, there's a shaded basketball court that lets you work on your jump shot without working on your sunburn.

Need a break? The park now features two pavilions where you can gather for a family picnic, meet up with friends, or just sit back with a good book in the shade. New walking paths weave across the grounds, making the park more accessible and providing a nice loop for a casual stroll or morning jog.

Room to Breathe

Not everything got an upgrade - and that's intentional. The designers wisely preserved a generous green space that remains open and uncovered, well-suited for impromptu frisbee games, picnic blankets, or community gatherings. The landscaping throughout is thoughtful and well-maintained, adding to the park's charm.

Getting hungry? You're in luck. The renovation included dedicated parking spots for food trucks, so you can grab a bite without leaving the park. And speaking of parking, there's plenty of it surrounding the perimeter, making visits hassle-free.

Good to Know Before You Go

You'll come across benches scattered around the park, however keep in mind that some aren't shaded - so bring a hat on sunny days. The park offers some lovely views and you might spot some local residents - squirrels and rabbits often make appearances, adding to the natural feel of the space.

One thing to note: there are no public restrooms on site.