Fall is a Great time to Explore Newton's Outdoor Spaces
Published on August 14, 2025
Now that fall is here, it is a great opportunity to get out and explore the parks and trails throughout Newton. They are great outdoor spaces for families and friends to enjoy as the weather starts to get cooler.
City Parks
Newton has 17 city parks scattered throughout the city. Many of which feature playgrounds, picnic tables, shelters, sports fields, restrooms, and more. Make sure to grab the kids and get outside to play at one of the amazing parks. See if you can explore them all. They all have different features and amenities. If you are wanting to enjoy Sand Creek there is a boat dock located on Fourth Street. Check out all of the parks here.
Sand Creek Trail
Sand Creek Trail is one of the top attractions in the Newton area and is popular for biking and walking. The trail is nearly 7 miles along Sand Creek through the heart of Newton and runs through Bethel College's campus. The majority of the trail is paved with some wooded, unpaved portions near Kauffman Museum. Water fountains and benches are located along the trails.
Centennial Dog Park
If you and your dogs are wanting to get out the Centennial Dog Park is our off-leash park located just north of the Blue Sky Statue. There are about 2 acres of fenced in space for dogs to run. The parks is also split so little dogs and big dogs can play in different areas. There are water fountains for you and your four legged companions.
Disc Golf
The Newton area has three golf disc courses for you to enjoy. Head out to Centennial Park, Bethel College, or Camp Hawk to play. All three courses offer unique features and varying levels of difficulties. Centennial Park is a mostly open course with a wooded perimeter and features 9 holes. Bethel College's course winds through campus and also features 9 holes. Camp Hawk's course features 24 holes and is well regarded nation wide. Try them all out as they are free and open to the public.
Harvey County Parks
If you want to get a bit out of the city but still stay close, check out one of the three Harvey County Parks. East Park, West Park, and Camp Hawk. These parks feature swimming, fishing, boating, playgrounds, sand volleyball, biking, horse trails, shelters, camping, disc golf, and cabin rentals. Learn more about these three parks.
Sand Creek Station Golf Course
Sand Creek Golf Station is one of the state's top golf courses. You get a private experience on a public course. The course continues the tradition of golf bordering railways. Many of the holes recreate famous Scotland holes and their features. While the course has old style characteristics, the course is thoroughly modern in many ways. Plan your next golf outing, grab some friends, and enjoy this wonderful course in Newton. Learn more about Sand Creek Station.
Parks & Trails Map
Check out Newton's Parks & Trails Map to see where all the parks, designated bicycle lanes, trails, sidewalks, and bicycle repair stations are located throughout time. See the full map here.