The Definitive North Little Rock Tennis Guide

Everything you need to play, compete, and connect in North Little Rock, AR

Quick Guide for Visitors & New Residents

Welcome to North Little Rock (NLR)! If you want to jump straight into the action, head directly to the Burns Park Tennis Center (4000 Joe K Poch Road). With 30 total courts (24 outdoor, 6 indoor), it is the undisputed hub for all local tennis activity.

Need gear or a quick restring? Visit DICK'S Sporting Goods locally, or cross the river to The Tennis Shoppe in Little Rock for professional-level stringing and gear. To find partners fast, join the "Little Rock tennis players" Facebook group or utilize the Arkansas Tennis Association website at arktennis.com.

Why North Little Rock is Great for Tennis Travelers

For the avid tennis traveler, North Little Rock is a welcoming, historic, and highly centralized tennis destination. The city boasts a rich tennis history, most notably hosting the 1974 Arkansas International Tennis Tournament, an indoor pro circuit event where the legendary Jimmy Connors claimed the inaugural singles title.

Because the massive Burns Park facility acts as a gravitational center for the region's players, visitors do not have to drive all over the county searching for a game. It is an incredibly friendly environment where local community organizers and teaching pros frequently host mixers, tournaments, and events, making it easy for out-of-towners to meet different people and plug right into the local scene.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q: How do I find local hitting partners of a similar skill level?
A: Create a profile on the Arkansas Tennis Association's "Seeking a Player/Team" portal at arktennis.com, or join local social media groups like the "Little Rock tennis players" Facebook group.
Q: What is the quickest way for a visitor to find a casual match or rally?
A: Calling the Burns Park Tennis Center directly at (501) 791-8585 to ask about upcoming weekend mixers or "hit-around" sessions is the fastest approach. Posting your NTRP rating and availability in local Facebook groups also yields quick responses.
Q: How can a short-term visitor secure court time?
A: The most reliable way is to call the Burns Park Tennis Center at (501) 791-8585 to book their indoor or outdoor courts in 1.5-hour increments. You can also view availability through the city's parks catalog at rec1.com. Neighborhood courts like Sherman Park are walk-on and free.
Q: How do I enroll in private or group tennis lessons?
A: You can arrange lessons directly with the teaching professionals at Burns Park Tennis Center by contacting the facility at nlr.ar.gov. Alternatively, use online platforms like playyourcourt.com or findtennislessons.com to book vetted local coaches on your schedule.
Q: How can 2.0-4.0 NTRP level players connect for matches?
A: Join the "Casual Sets" social league managed by USTA Arkansas, or enroll in the "Tennis Apprentice" program. Both are specifically designed for beginner to intermediate adults to meet and rally in a structured, low-pressure environment.

Tennis Courts & Facilities

Below is an in-depth breakdown of the places to play around the city.

Burns Park Tennis Center

The crown jewel of North Little Rock tennis, located inside one of the largest municipal parks in the United States.

  • Location: 4000 Joe K Poch Road, North Little Rock, AR 72118
  • Courts: 30 courts total (24 lighted outdoor hard courts, 6 indoor hard courts).
  • Access & Pricing: Courts are reserved in 1.5-hour increments. Indoor courts require a fee, while outdoor courts may have minimal or no fees depending on programming. Contact the center at (501) 791-8585 or check nlr.ar.gov for exact rates.

Sherman Park Community Center

A neighborhood option ideal for daytime, casual play.

  • Location: 624 N Beech St, North Little Rock, AR 72114
  • Courts: 2 outdoor hard courts.
  • Access & Pricing: Free walk-on access. Note that these courts are not lighted for night play. Check in at the community center is recommended.

Rose City Park & Idlewild Park

Smaller public park facilities suitable for practicing serves or quick rallies.

  • Rose City Park: Features 2 outdoor tennis courts.
  • Idlewild Park: Features 1 outdoor court that includes blended lines for pickleball.
  • Pickleball Note: If you enjoy pickleball, the nearby Burns Park Pickleball Complex (12 Funland Drive) features 12 dedicated, lighted courts.

Lessons & Coaching

Whether you are picking up a racket for the first time or fine-tuning your tournament game, NLR has instructional options.

  • Burns Park Professionals: The center employs seasoned pros for private, semi-private, and group clinics. They also host a comprehensive Junior Progressive Tennis Academy for youth development.
  • Independent Coaches: Use platforms like playyourcourt.com to hire independent professionals who will meet you at public parks like Sherman Park or Rose City Park.

Community & Leagues

Arkansas has a very active USTA community, heavily anchored in the Central Arkansas area.

  • Arkansas Tennis Association (ATA): The governing body for USTA play in the state. They organize leagues ranging from 2.5 to 5.0+ skill levels. Visit arktennis.com for registration deadlines.
  • Tennis Apprentice: Often hosted at Burns Park, this multi-week program is the perfect gateway for adult beginners. It combines instruction with social play and includes a USTA membership.
  • Casual Sets: A flexible, social league format popular in the area for players who want the fun of match play without the intensity of official USTA league standings.

Shops & Services

Keeping your gear in top shape is crucial. Here is where to go for stringing and equipment.

  • The Tennis Shoppe: Located just across the river at 8218 Cantrell Road in Little Rock. This is the premier specialty pro shop for the region, offering professional stringing, customization, and expert advice. View their details at thetennisshoppe.com.
  • DICK'S Sporting Goods: Located conveniently in North Little Rock. Best for emergency overgrips, basic stringing services, and entry-level rackets.