Pickleball is Growing in Richmond

After gaining popularity in recent years, pickleball has found a new home in Richmond. Locals are raving about this exciting game, which offers players a way to stay active and socialize.

Photo credit: Pickleheads

Linda Scott, an organizer for the Pickleball Club of Chesterfield County, says they’re “always looking to grow pickleball”. Despite challenges, the game’s popularity is booming as more locals give it a go.

In this article, we’ll explain what pickleball actually is, and where you can find some of the best pickleball courts in Richmond.

What Is Pickleball?

Photo credit: Pickleheads

Pickleball combines elements of tennis, badminton, and ping-pong. Unlike tennis, pickleball is known for being low-impact, making it accessible to all ages and fitness levels. It’s played on a court similar in size to a badminton court, meaning it requires less exertion and movement to reach the ball than in tennis.

What’s more, pickleball is very easy to learn. Thanks to its simple rules, players with no experience in racket or paddle sports can learn how to play pickleball in no time.

Pickleball is now the fastest-growing sport in the US, with around 36.5 million players. It has garnered a significant following in numerous communities, and Richmond is no exception.

“We’ve found some really good people,” Linda said, sharing that they “have about 2,500 members now at last count.” With the sport’s popularity growing in Richmond, pickleball facilities are being built to keep up with demand.

Where to Play Pickleball in Richmond

Photo credit: Pickleheads

Richmond has no shortage of pickleball facilities. Here are some of the top pickleball courts near you:

Bryan Park

This 262-acre park features four outdoor pickleball hard courts to enjoy with friends and family. The best part is these courts are completely free to play, with no membership or entrance fee required.

Between the pickleball courts, nearby picnic shelters, and playgrounds, you can easily spend the entire day exploring what this park has to offer.

Forest Hill Park

Forest Hill Park offers six outdoor hard pickleball courts with permanent lines and nets, completely free to players. The park is even a historic landmark, listed in Virginia’s Historic Register, making it one of the most beautiful spots for pickleball in Richmond.

With onsite restrooms and water facilities, the park has everything you’d need for a full day of pickleball. In between games, you can also enjoy the park’s other amenities, from picnic shelters to the many walking trails.

Huguenot Park

Huguenot Park is a great place to enjoy the outdoors, featuring six outdoor asphalt pickleball courts. These courts are all permanent, so they’re already set up with lines and nets. All you need to bring is your paddle and some friends!

There’s plenty to keep you busy here, whether you’re enjoying the picnic area or wandering the azalea gardens.

Final Thoughts

There’s a reason pickleball has become so popular, so why not join the growing community of pickleball players in Richmond? Grab a paddle and find your favorite spot for a game.

–By Brandon Mackie

Brandon Mackie is the co-founder of Pickleheads, a platform that helps players find courts, organize games, and connect with local players. Once a competitive tennis player, Brandon can be found these days on pickleball courts near Phoenix, Arizona.