Frequently Asked Questions

Parks and Recreation's Frequently Asked Questions

Where is the Parks and Recreation Office located?
Stuart Community Center
415 Franklin Street
Carlisle, PA 17013
What are the office hours for Parks and Recreation?
8:00 a.m. - 5:00 p.m.
Monday - Friday
How do I register for programs and activities?
  1. Click here to view open activities, and register online.
  2. Call (717) 243-3318 with your credit card information.
  3. Stop by the Parks & Rec office at the Stuart Community Center, 415 Franklin Street in Carlisle between 8am and 5pm, Monday - Friday.  We accept cash, credit or personal checks.
How can I find out where the parks are located in Carlisle?
For a list of parks in the Carlisle Borough click here or call the Parks and Rec Office at (717) 243-3318.
Is alcohol, tobacco or vaping allowed in Borough parks?
Alcohol, tobacco or vaping is NOT permitted in Carlisle Borough parks.
What time do parks close in Carlisle?
Park properties are open to the public daily from dawn until dusk. No person should be present in these areas between dusk and dawn without the prior approval of the Director of Parks and Recreation unless posted differently at the park location.
Are pavilions and other parks and rec facilities available for rental?
Pavilions are available for rent at Biddle Mission Park, Heberlig Palmer Park, LeTort Park, Valley Meadows Park and seasonally at the Carlisle Community Pool.  The amphitheater at Thornwald Park may be rented.  You may also rent the cabin at Shaffer Park for parties, youth retreats, workshops, family reunions, or meetings.
The Stuart Community Center gymnasium and multi-purpose rooms are available for rental Monday – Saturday 8am to 11pm and Sunday 12pm to 11pm.  Call (717) 243-3318 for information and rates.  

Stuart Community Center Rental Handout
Pavilion, Cabin and Pool Rental Handout
Do you have a pool in the Carlisle Borough?
Yes, the Carlisle Parks and Recreation Department oversees the Carlisle Community Pool.

1236 Franklin Street 
Carlisle, PA 17013
What are the hours at the Carlisle Community Pool?
Pool season runs from Memorial Day weekend until Labor Day weekend.
Sunday - Thursday, 12:00 p.m. - 7:00 p.m.
Friday - Saturday, 11:00 a.m. - 6:00 p.m.

Visit the Carlisle Community Pool page for more information.
Are there any jobs available at Carlisle Parks and Recreation?
The Carlisle Parks and Recreation Department hires part-time positions throughout the year, mainly during the summer months.  Some positions start at age 15.

RECRUITING NEW PROGRAM INSTRUCTORS

If you have a new program idea we’d love to hear about it. For more information click on the “Program Proposal Form” at the bottom of the page. Staff will contact you once your proposal has been received. This application is the first step in the process, and does not guarantee that your idea will be offered. Clearances are required. Thank you for your interest! Program Proposal Form

Are dogs allowed in parks?
Dogs must be on a leash at all times. The pet owner is responsible for removal of all waste deposited on park property. Remember this is a play space for you and your family!  Dogs are prohibited in Memorial Park.
Can I use metal detectors in Carlisle Borough Parks?
Metal detecting is recognized as a legitimate recreation activity when it is conducted in ways that do not damage the natural and cultural resources in Carlisle Borough parks.

The use of metal detection devices are permitted in Carlisle Borough parks under the following conditions:

  • The activity does not conflict with other visitors to the park or disturb lawn or turf areas, rare or fragile plant or animal habitats, or archeological or natural resource-sensitive areas.
  • All disturbed areas must be restored to their original state.
  • Any artifacts which may have historical or archeological significance are the property of the Carlisle Borough and shall be surrendered immediately to the Department of Parks and Recreation. If discovered to be of no archaeological value, items will be returned to the finder.
  • No specific permit is required at this time.
Carlisle Community Walkable, Welcoming,
Vibrant, Bikeable, Active, Fun
CARLISLE PARKS & RECREATION 415 Franklin Street
Carlisle. PA 17013
717-243-3318 MON - FRI 8:00 AM - 5:00 PM