E. P. "Tom" Sawyer State Park

E. P. "Tom" Sawyer State Park is a 550-acre park in Louisville on the grounds of the former Central State Hospital, featuring walking trails, sports fields, and open green spaces. The facility includes tennis courts, soccer fields, a swimming pool, a gymnasium, and areas designated for model aircraft activities.

The park opened in 1974 on the former grounds of Central State Hospital and was named after Jefferson County Judge Erbon Powers Sawyer. This transformation of a hospital site into a public park created a new recreational space for the community.

The Louisville Astronomical Society operates an Urban Astronomy Center here, offering regular stargazing sessions and educational programs about space and astronomy. Visitors can participate in these observational activities and learn about the night sky.

The park offers diverse facilities for different activities, allowing visitors to hike, play sports, or relax in open spaces. It is helpful to bring appropriate clothing and equipment based on your planned activities.

The park is connected to the father of television journalist Diane Sawyer, who died in a car accident in 1969. This personal background gave the park a distinctive human story behind its establishment.

Location: Kentucky

Inception: 1971

Website: http://parks.ky.gov/parks/recreationparks/tom-sawyer/history.aspx

GPS coordinates: 38.28440,-85.55950

Latest update: December 8, 2025 20:03