Pickleball Bay AreaPickleball Bay Area

North Bay region

Novato

Two real options, both free and first-come-first-served: Hill Recreation's six courts, and a smaller pair at Pioneer Park.

8 courts 2 parks

Where to play

Hill Recreation Pickleball Courts

Beginner-friendly
500 Crescent Drive, Novato, CA 94949 Directions →
6 dedicated courts Level: All levels Hours: 8am–10pm daily
SurfaceHigh — dedicated, permanent lines/nets
LevelAll levels welcome
WeatherMild, marine-influenced — less fog than the coast
WaitHigh — reportedly one of Novato's most popular spots, no reservation option

Six dedicated courts behind Novato High, expandable to eight when demand requires, with a paddle-rack rotation once full. Free, first-come-first-served, no way to reserve ahead. An older listing under "Thigpen Courts" cites shorter hours and a $3 Saturday fee — likely stale against the current 8am–10pm daily hours, but worth confirming by phone.

Pioneer Park

Mixed levels
1007 Simmons Ln, Novato, CA 94945 Directions →
2 courts Level: Not specified Hours: Daytime only, no lights
SurfaceMedium — hard surface, net setup unclear (sources conflict on permanent vs. BYO)
LevelNot specified
WeatherMild, marine-influenced
WaitLow — smaller, less-known option

A smaller, quieter alternative to Hill Recreation. Free, first-come-first-served, no lights, so no evening play. One aggregator claims indoor courts at this address, conflicting with the city's facility directory — likely an error.

Sources: City of Novato — Parks, Recreation & Community Services · Pickleballify — Pioneer Park. Verified July 2026 — always confirm hours before a special trip.