Shelby Farms Park is the big green escape from the Memphis music circuit. It covers 4,500 acres in East Memphis, which its operators describe as one of the largest urban parks in the country, and it is open from sunrise to sunset 365 days a year. Entry to the park is free according to the local tourism site, while some activities charge fees. There is plenty to do. The park has more than 40 miles of paved and unpaved trails, and the 10.65-mile Shelby Farms Greenline links Memphis and Cordova through the park. More than 20 bodies of water offer fishing, and boat and board rentals are available. A herd of bison lives in the park, which surprises first-time visitors. Playgrounds, a sprayground, disc golf, a BMX track, bike rentals, paintball and laser tag, treetop adventures and horseback riding broaden the choice, and dogs are welcome on leash, with an off-leash area called The Outback. It suits families, runners, cyclists and anyone who needs fresh air after a few days of museums. It is a drive from downtown, so plan on a car or rideshare.
How to visit
The park is open daily from sunrise to sunset, with posted hours that shift through the year. Parking details and fees are not given on the about page, so check the park’s site before you go. Some activities, such as rentals and the treetop course, are operated separately and have their own prices and schedules.
What to expect
Expect a relaxed outdoor day with mostly flat paths, plenty of picnic spots and a lot of open sky. Bring water, sun protection and bug spray in summer. Weather and the closures noted above can affect access, so look at the alerts on the park’s site.
Making the most of it
Hire a bike for the Greenline, walk a lakeside trail or look for the bison, and finish with a picnic. Families can pair it with the Memphis Zoo on a different day, and couples can choose a quiet morning for a walk. A stable inside the park offers guided horseback rides, for visitors who want to see it from the saddle.
What to expect
The experience
A huge urban park with trails, lakes, a bison herd, playgrounds, rentals and the Shelby Farms Greenline.
Best time
A mild morning in spring or autumn.
How long
Two hours for a walk or ride, up to a full day for families.
Tips
Check the park’s alerts for closures, bring water and hire a bike for the Greenline.
Quick picks
- Best for
- Families, cyclists, runners and nature lovers.
- Families
- Playgrounds, a sprayground and bison make it a strong family day, though check closure alerts.
- Couples
- A quiet lakeside walk or a bike ride on the Greenline.
- Pair with
- The Memphis Zoo on another day, or a picnic lunch.
- Time needed
- Two to five hours.
Good questions
Is Shelby Farms Park free?+
Entry to the park is free according to the local tourism site, though some activities such as rentals and the treetop course charge fees.
How big is the park?+
It covers 4,500 acres, with more than 40 miles of trails and over 20 bodies of water.
Are there bison?+
Yes, a herd of bison lives in the park.
What is the Greenline?+
The Shelby Farms Greenline is a 10.65-mile paved trail for cycling and walking that connects Memphis and Cordova through the park.
Are there any closures?+
The Woodland Discovery Playground is closed until January 2027, and Pine Lake Drive is closed to vehicles from Great View Drive to the playground through January 2027.
