History of the Recreation, Parks, & Tourism Department
In the 1950s, Wicomico became the second county in Maryland to establish a Recreation & Parks Department. By utilizing the City of Salisbury, school, and church facilities, the Department was able to offer indoor and outdoor programs to the youth and citizens of the County. The Recreation Commission also worked with the City of Salisbury to help design, build, and improve city parks. In 1959, the Wicomico Youth & Civic Center was built, and it quickly became the center of community activities. Planning for the building began in 1950.
Wicomico County's first parks were established in the 1960s as three properties were acquired to provide swimming areas for local residents. In the 1970s, with funding from the State of Maryland's Program Open Space, the Recreation & Parks Department began in earnest to build the Wicomico County Parks system. Partnering with local groups who contributed funds, talent, and sweat equity, park facilities sprung up in the local communities of Sharptown, Mardela, Delmar, Willards and Pittsville. This growth continued into the 1980s, and included the preservation of the 260-acre tract of land that is today Pemberton Historical Park.
In 1997, the County combined the operations of its indoor stadium (Civic Center), recreation, parks, and tourism divisions to create the new Department of Recreation, Parks, and Tourism. This partnership has allowed a pooling of resources to provide a better, more varied, and efficient delivery of service to customers.
Currently, the County's Parks Division operates 39 facilities encompassing over 1400 acres of land, while the Recreation Division runs numerous programs for the community. The facilities, currently valued at over $32 million, were built at a cost of approximately $3 million in local money. They include 32 ball fields, 34 tennis courts, 18 basketball courts, 20 playgrounds, 17 pavilions, 8 boat ramps and 212 boat slips.
Current Programs & News
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Inclusive Drop-In Kickball
“Drop in” to Field 7 ½ at the Henry S. Parker Athletic Complex for an inclusive game of kickball. This program is designed to create an environment where individuals with physical or intellectual challenges and their buddies can participate in a sport together. - Read More
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Good Beer Festival
The Good Beer Festival is set for Oct. 13-14 at Pemberton Park. Enjoy unlimited tastings of craft brews, along with music, games and other fun activities. - Read More
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Kids Klub After School
Located in three elementary schools for the 2023-2024 school year, the Kids Klub After School program is providing affordable after school programming for youth ages 5-12. - Read More
