Winter Haven, FL – The City of Winter Haven is making a major investment in sports tourism and community recreation with the addition of four new collegiate-level fields at Chain of Lakes Park. This expansion positions Winter Haven as a premier destination for high-level baseball and multi-sport events, bringing visitors to the City and delivering lasting economic benefits.
With these enhancements, Chain of Lakes Park will host more than 30 baseball events annually, including the prestigious RussMatt Collegiate Invitational, an eight-week spring training event. In total, the facility will be active for over 130 days per year, drawing more than 25,000 visitors and generating an estimated $19 million in economic impact for Winter Haven.
Investing in Winter Haven’s Parks and Community
Winter Haven has long been a hub for outdoor recreation, and this latest investment ensures that the City remains competitive in the growing sports tourism industry. The upgrades at Chain of Lakes Park allow Winter Haven to retain and expand major tournaments while attracting new events that will support local businesses, hotels, and restaurants.
“In many ways, Chain of Lakes Park is more than just an investment in sports—it’s an investment in our community,” said Julie Adams, Department Director of Parks, Recreation and Culture. “While this state-of-the-art facility will attract tournament teams on the weekends, it also provides year-round benefits for our residents.”
In addition to baseball, the artificial turf and multipurpose design of the park create opportunities for hosting other high-level sporting events, with additional fields planned to accommodate sports such as softball, lacrosse, soccer, flag football, and roundnet. This flexibility ensures the park remains a vibrant, year-round asset for both visitors and residents.
Major Enhancements for Public Enjoyment
Beyond the fields, the City is enhancing public amenities with a multi-phase development plan that will transform Chain of Lakes Park into a premier recreational destination. Expected to be completed by late Fall 2025, these additions will provide new opportunities for residents and visitors to enjoy the park year-round, regardless of tournaments.
- Future Additions: Plans include a playground, additional multipurpose fields, a scenic boardwalk, and improved lake access. These features will create more recreational spaces for families, athletes, and outdoor enthusiasts.
- Eco-Friendly Design: A stormwater wetland system will enhance both sustainability and natural beauty, improving water quality while preserving the park’s ecological balance.
- Scenic Walking Trails: New walking paths will wind through the park, offering lakeside views and a relaxing outdoor experience for residents and visitors alike.
- Lakeside Recreation: A dock, kayak launch, and boathouse will provide expanded access to Winter Haven’s Chain of Lakes, encouraging more water-based activities for all ages.
“These enhancements create a gathering place for families, promote outdoor recreation, and enhance the overall quality of life in Winter Haven,” Julie added. “This project reflects our commitment to building a community where residents and visitors alike can come together, stay active, and enjoy all that this park has to offer.”
Managing Growth While Maintaining Accessibility
With increased visitation, the City is taking steps to ensure smooth traffic flow through onsite parking management and strategic event scheduling. The park will remain open to the public from sunrise to sunset, with trail access determined based on overall site usage.
Shaping Winter Haven’s Future
This expansion represents a long-term investment in Winter Haven’s economy, tourism, and quality of life. The use of artificial turf reduces maintenance costs and conserves resources, making it a sustainable solution for both event organizers and the local community.
With these enhancements, Chain of Lakes Park will continue to serve as a cornerstone of Winter Haven’s identity—where world-class sports tourism meets community-centered recreation.