There are 55 city parks and facilities in Jackson, which cover around 2,300 acres of land. These areas include playgrounds, swimming pools, golf courses, tennis courts, picnic grounds, and jogging and walking paths. Special facilities include community centers, which are available for public use; Smith Wills Stadium; Mynelle Gardens; the city's botanical gardens; and the Jackson Zoo. All properties are patrolled by City of Jackson Park Rangers.

The City of Jackson offers a wide variety of recreational programs; athletics for youth and adults, including softball, flag football, basketball and baseball leagues; swimming, golfing, and tennis lessons; neighborhood festivals; after-school programs; and seasonal clinics.