Beyond the Bar: The Best Free Public Pickleball Courts in Fort Worth
Last updated: January 2026
Paying $40 an hour to play at an "eatertainment" venue is great for a Friday night, but if you play three times a week, your wallet will hurt. Fortunately, the greater Fort Worth area has invested in excellent public facilities. You just need to know where they are hiding.
1. Dutch Branch Park (Benbrook / SW Fort Worth)
Technically in Benbrook, Dutch Branch Park is the undisputed king of public pickleball for Southwest Fort Worth residents.
- The Setup: 6 Dedicated Pickleball Courts with permanent nets and lights.
- The Crowd: This is a very active community. On any given evening, you will find 20-30 people rotating in. It is the closest thing to a "club" atmosphere you will find for free.
- Best For: Players who want competitive open play without paying a drop-in fee.
2. McLeland Tennis Center (South Fort Worth)
We mention McLeland a lot, but that is because it is the most reliable facility in the city. While managed by a private company for the city, the outdoor pickleball courts are extremely accessible.
- The Cost: There is typically a nominal fee (around $3-$5 per person) to reserve a court, which is significantly cheaper than private clubs.
- The Perk: You can actually make a reservation. At Dutch Branch, you might wait 30 minutes for a court. At McLeland, if you book it, it's yours.
3. North Z Boaz Park (Northside)
For those north of I-30, North Z Boaz is a staple. It’s a "converted" facility, meaning they have taken old tennis courts and painted pickleball lines.
- The Catch: Check the net situation. While the city has added portable nets in the past, savvy locals always keep a portable net in their trunk just in case.
- Vibe: Much more relaxed and casual than the competitive grinders at Dutch Branch.
4. Public Court Etiquette
If you head to Dutch Branch on a Saturday morning, you need to know the rules to avoid being "that guy."
- Paddle Stacking: If courts are full, find the paddle rack. Place your paddle in the line.
- Games to 11: Do not play best-of-3 sets when people are waiting. Play one game to 11, win by 2, then exit.
- Winner Stays (Sometimes): Ask the locals. On some "challenge courts," the winners stay and split, while on others, it is "4-on-4-off."
| Park | Area | Type | Lights? |
|---|---|---|---|
| Dutch Branch | Benbrook | Dedicated / Permanent Nets | Yes |
| McLeland | South FW | Reservable | Yes |
| North Z Boaz | Northside | Converted / Shared | Yes |
5. Frequently Asked Questions
Do the courts at Dutch Branch Park have lights?
Yes. The pickleball courts at Dutch Branch Park are lighted, allowing for play well past sunset, which is essential during the hot Texas summers.
Is alcohol allowed at public parks in Fort Worth?
Generally, no. Most municipal parks in Fort Worth and Benbrook prohibit the consumption of alcohol. If you want a beer with your match, stick to venues like Courtside Kitchen.
Confidence on the Public Court
Open play is intimidating if you don't know the rules or the strategy. Don't sit on the sidelines. Book a lesson with Golden Racket Academy, and we will teach you the mechanics and the etiquette so you can walk onto any public court in Fort Worth with confidence.