Pickleball Courts Near Hammond IN: Fun Spots to Play in Northwest Indiana

Pickleball Courts Near Hammond IN: Fun Spots to Play in Northwest Indiana

ByRally Racket

Looking to play pickleball in Hammond, Indiana? You’re in luck! This fun and fast-growing sport has gained popularity in the area, with several courts available for players of all skill levels.

A pair of pickleball courts sit adjacent to a park in Hammond, IN, surrounded by a green landscape and under a clear blue sky

Hammond offers both indoor and outdoor pickleball courts for you to enjoy year-round. Whether you’re a beginner or an experienced player, you’ll find suitable places to practice your serves and improve your game.

Let’s explore some of the top pickleball spots in and around Hammond.

1) Harrison Park – Dedicated pickleball courts

A group of pickleball courts in Harrison Park, surrounded by lush greenery and under a clear blue sky in Hammond, IN

Looking for a place to play pickleball near Hammond, IN? You’re in luck! Harrison Park in Chicago offers 2 outdoor hard courts for pickleball enthusiasts.

These courts have permanent lines, making it easy for you to set up and start playing. You’ll need to bring your own net, though, so don’t forget to pack it!

The best part? The courts are free to use. You can enjoy your favorite sport without worrying about fees or memberships.

Harrison Park provides some handy amenities too. You’ll have access to restrooms and water, which is great for those longer playing sessions.

Planning an evening game? No problem! The courts have lights, so you can keep playing even after the sun goes down.

While Harrison Park is in Chicago, it’s a great option if you’re near Hammond, IN. It’s just a short drive away, making it perfect for a quick game or a weekend pickleball session.

Remember to check the park’s rules and regulations before you visit. It’s always good to know what to expect when you arrive at a new court.

2) Forsythe Park – Multi-use courts available

A group of multi-use courts with pickleball lines, surrounded by trees and a nearby park in Hammond, IN

If you’re looking for a place to play pickleball near Hammond, IN, check out Forsythe Park. This spot is getting an exciting upgrade that’ll make it even better for sports lovers like you.

The City of Monroe is working on a cool project at Forsythe Park. They’re adding new tennis courts and pickleball courts. You’ll have more options for your favorite racquet sports soon.

But that’s not all. The park is also getting a fancy new clubhouse. It’ll be a great place to hang out before or after your games.

The whole area around the courts is getting spruced up too. Expect to see nicer landscaping that’ll make your time at the park even more enjoyable.

While the project is still in progress, it’s moving along nicely. Soon, you’ll have a fresh new spot to play pickleball and other sports. Keep an eye on Forsythe Park – it’s shaping up to be a fantastic place for your next game!

3) Purdue Northwest Community Tennis Complex – Offers pickleball

The Purdue Northwest Community Tennis Complex features multiple pickleball courts nestled in a vibrant setting near Hammond, IN

If you’re looking for a place to play pickleball near Hammond, IN, check out the Purdue Northwest Community Tennis Complex. This facility has expanded its offerings to include pickleball courts.

You’ll find well-maintained courts at this complex. The courts are part of Dowling Park, which got a major upgrade thanks to a partnership between Purdue Northwest and the City of Hammond.

When you visit, you’ll see that the complex is more than just tennis courts. It’s part of a larger $5.2 million project that included new softball, baseball, and soccer fields too.

While the main focus is on tennis, you can now enjoy pickleball here as well. It’s a great spot to meet other players and get your game on.

Remember to bring your own equipment, as rental options might be limited. The complex offers a fun, casual atmosphere for players of all skill levels.

4) Dowling Park – Outdoor courts for pickleball

A sunny day at Dowling Park, with multiple pickleball courts surrounded by green trees and a clear blue sky

Looking for a place to play pickleball near Hammond, IN? Check out Dowling Park! This outdoor sports complex is a great spot to enjoy a game.

The park is part of a partnership between Purdue University Northwest and the City of Hammond. It’s located just north of I80-94 on Kennedy Avenue, making it easy to get to.

Dowling Park offers a variety of sports facilities. While specific details about pickleball courts aren’t mentioned, many multi-use parks include them these days.

You’ll want to bring your own equipment when you visit. Don’t forget your paddle, balls, and maybe some water to stay hydrated.

It’s always a good idea to check with the local parks department for the most up-to-date info on court availability and hours. They can tell you if you need to reserve a court or if it’s first-come, first-served.

Remember to follow proper pickleball etiquette when playing. Be friendly to other players and have fun!

5) Lost Marsh Golf Course – Nearby pickleball facilities

A sprawling golf course with a backdrop of marshland, surrounded by lush greenery and a set of pickleball courts nearby

If you’re looking for pickleball courts near Hammond, IN, you might want to check out the area around Lost Marsh Golf Course. While the golf course itself doesn’t have pickleball facilities, it’s situated in a region with growing interest in the sport.

You’ll find the golf course at 1001 129th Street, Hammond, IN. It’s easy to reach and offers a beautiful setting.

For pickleball, you’ll need to look a bit further. The Jean Shepherd Pickleball Complex is not far away. It’s located at 3031 J.F. Mahoney Drive, Hammond, IN 46323.

This complex is a great spot for pickleball enthusiasts. You can enjoy indoor courts, perfect for playing year-round regardless of the weather.

While visiting Lost Marsh for golf, you can easily plan a pickleball session nearby. It’s a fun way to mix up your activities and try something new.

Remember to call ahead to check court availability and any possible fees. Bringing your own equipment is usually a good idea too.

Understanding Pickleball: A Quick Overview

A sunny day at the pickleball courts, with players engaged in friendly competition. The vibrant court lines contrast against the green surroundings

Pickleball is a fun, fast-paced sport that combines elements of tennis, badminton, and table tennis. It’s easy to learn but tricky to master, making it great for players of all skill levels.

History of Pickleball

Pickleball was born in 1965 on Bainbridge Island, Washington. Three dads – Joel Pritchard, Bill Bell, and Barney McCallum – created the game to entertain their bored kids.

They named it after Pritchard’s dog, Pickles, who loved chasing the ball. The sport grew popular among neighbors and friends.

In the 1970s, it spread beyond the island. By the 1990s, pickleball was played in all 50 states. Today, it’s one of the fastest-growing sports in America.

Basic Rules of Play

Pickleball is played on a smaller court than tennis. You serve underhand and diagonally across the court. The ball must bounce once on each side before volleys are allowed.

There’s a 7-foot “non-volley zone” near the net, often called “the kitchen”. You can’t hit the ball in this area before it bounces.

Games are usually played to 11 points, and you must win by 2. You only score points when serving.

The pickleball court is 44 feet long and 20 feet wide. It’s divided into right and left service courts, just like tennis.

Remember, have fun and keep the ball in play! The more rallies, the more enjoyable the game.

Benefits of Playing Pickleball

A group of players enjoying a game of pickleball on well-maintained courts in a park near Hammond, IN. The sun is shining, and the atmosphere is lively and friendly

Pickleball offers great perks for your body and social life. It’s a fun way to stay active and make new friends.

Physical Health Benefits

Pickleball helps you get fit and stay healthy. You’ll burn calories while having fun on the court. A typical game can help you burn up to 600 calories per hour.

The sport improves your balance and hand-eye coordination. It’s easier on your joints than tennis, making it great for all ages. You’ll boost your heart health and build strength in your legs and arms.

Pickleball can help you:

  • Lose weight
  • Lower blood pressure
  • Reduce stress
  • Improve flexibility

Social and Community Benefits

Pickleball is a social sport that brings people together. You’ll meet new friends and strengthen bonds with old ones. The game is easy to learn, so you can play with folks of all skill levels.

Hammond’s pickleball courts offer chances to join a welcoming community. You can take part in local tournaments or casual games. It’s a great way to stay connected and have fun.

Playing pickleball can:

  • Boost your mood
  • Improve social skills
  • Provide a sense of belonging
  • Offer opportunities for friendly competition

You’ll find that pickleball is more than just a game – it’s a lifestyle that keeps you active and social.

Features of a Great Pickleball Court

A vibrant pickleball court with clean, smooth surface, bright boundary lines, and sturdy nets in a well-maintained outdoor setting near Hammond, IN

A top-notch pickleball court has key elements that make gameplay fun and safe. The surface you play on and the court’s layout are crucial for a good game.

Court Surface Materials

You’ll want a court with the right surface. Acrylic surfaces are popular for outdoor courts. They’re tough and last a long time.

Concrete is another good choice. It’s cheap and easy to maintain. You can add a coating to make it less slippery when wet.

For indoor courts, wood or rubber floors work well. They’re easier on your joints and help prevent injuries.

When picking a surface, think about:

  • Grip
  • Bounce
  • Comfort
  • Maintenance needs
  • Cost

Choose a color that makes the ball easy to see. Light blue or green are common picks.

Court Dimensions and Markings

Your pickleball court needs to be the right size. A standard court is 20 feet wide and 44 feet long. This includes the non-volley zone, also called the kitchen.

Here’s what you need to mark:

  • Sidelines
  • Baselines
  • Non-volley zone lines
  • Center line

Use bright, contrasting colors for the lines. White or yellow on a blue or green court works well. Make sure the lines are 2 inches wide.

Don’t forget the net! The net should be 36 inches high at the sidelines and 34 inches at the center. A good net is tight and doesn’t sag.

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