Short Pump sits in western Henrico County just outside Richmond, and it’s become one of the best spots for pickleball in central Virginia. The area has 30+ courts between one massive public complex and several indoor facilities within a short drive.
Outdoor Courts
Pouncey Tract Park
- Address: 4747 Pouncey Tract Rd, Glen Allen, VA 23059
- Courts: 24 dedicated outdoor courts (includes 2 championship-caliber courts)
- Surface: Hard court (asphalt with acrylic coating)
- Hours: Dawn to dusk
- Lights: Yes (LED)
- Cost: Free
- Amenities: Parking, restrooms, water, ADA-accessible sidewalks, covered spectator seating
The largest public pickleball complex in Virginia. Split into beginner-friendly upper courts and fenced intermediate/advanced lower courts. First come, first served. Expect crowds on weekday mornings.
Moody Middle School
- Address: 7800 Woodman Rd, Henrico, VA 23228
- Courts: 4 outdoor courts (portable nets on tennis courts)
- Surface: Hard court
- Hours: Outside school hours
- Lights: No
- Cost: Free
- Amenities: Street parking
Casual backup option with portable nets on tennis lines. No organized schedule, so bring your own gear. Good for a low-key session when Pouncey Tract is packed.
Sandston Recreation Area
- Address: 11 J.B. Finley Rd, Sandston, VA 23150
- Courts: 4 outdoor courts
- Surface: Hard court
- Hours: Weather permitting, typically 6 PM – 9 PM
- Lights: No
- Cost: Free
- Amenities: Parking, paddles and balls provided
Smaller outdoor option east of Short Pump. Play runs evenings above 40°F. Paddles and balls provided on-site, making it a solid pick for beginners trying the sport for the first time.
Indoor Courts
Performance Pickleball RVA
- Address: 8641 Quioccasin Rd, Henrico, VA 23229
- Website: ppbrva.com
- Courts: 12 indoor dedicated courts
- Surface: Hard court
- Membership: Required (see website for current rates)
- Drop-in: Available (pay-per-play options)
Virginia’s largest dedicated indoor facility with 12 courts, leagues, clinics, and tournaments. On-site bar and kitchen. About 15 minutes from Short Pump.
Shady Grove Family YMCA
- Address: 11255 Nuckols Rd, Glen Allen, VA 23059
- Website: ymcarichmond.org
- Courts: 6 indoor wood courts
- Surface: Wood
- Membership: YMCA membership required
- Drop-in: No (members only)
Closest indoor option to Short Pump with six courts and permanent lines. Scheduled play Mon/Tue/Fri mornings, Thu evenings, and Sun mornings. Paddles and balls provided.
Short Pump Pickleball Courts
| Court | Type | Courts | Cost | Hours |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Glendale Park | Outdoor | 12 | Free | Dawn-dusk |
| Fairmont Park | Outdoor | 6 | Free | 6 AM-10 PM |
| 11th Ave Park | Outdoor | 6 | Free | Daylight |
| The Picklr | Indoor | 8 | $30 trial | 6 AM-11 PM |
| JCC Wagner | Indoor | 2 | $135/mo | Member hours |
Local Resources
Clubs & Organizations
- Henrico Pickleball – Community group with schedules, court info
- RVA Pickle-Ball – pickleball community offering lessons & open play
Gear & Lessons
- Yello Club – pro shop, and lessons starting at $70/hour
- Performance Pickleball RVA – clinics and private lessons for all levels
Nearby Cities
- Midlothian Pickleball Courts – Quick Guide
- Glen Allen Pickleball Courts – Quick Guide
- Richmond Pickleball Courts – Quick Guide
References
- Total Courts: 30+
- Free Courts: 24 at Pouncey Tract Park
- Best Beginner Spot: Pouncey Tract Park (upper 4 courts)
- Busiest Times: Weekday mornings 8 AM – 12 PM, weekends 9 AM – 1 PM
- Reservations: Not available at Pouncey Tract (first come, first served)
- Henrico Recreation Info: (804) 501-5591
FAQs
Is Pouncey Tract Park free to play pickleball?
Yes, all 24 courts at Pouncey Tract Park are completely free. No membership or reservation is needed. Just show up and grab an open court.
What skill levels play at Pouncey Tract Park?
The upper 4 courts are generally used by beginners, while the lower 8 courts attract intermediate and advanced players. The newer championship courts also see competitive play.
When is the best time to avoid crowds at Pouncey Tract?
Weekday afternoons between 1 PM and 4 PM are typically the quietest. Early mornings and weekends see the heaviest traffic, especially on the lower courts.
Is there a pickleball pro shop near Short Pump?
Yello Club in Manakin-Sabot has a pro shop about 10 minutes from Short Pump. Performance Pickleball RVA also has a pro shop and equipment available at their Henrico location.
