07/31/2026
Meet Michael McCarver, Supervisor and Acting Coordinator at Pinckneyville Park Community Recreation Center and Best Friend Park.
Since 2018, Michael has been helping our community create memorable experiences for our community. For Michael, everyday is a whirlwind of activity. A typical day could mean managing busy recreation centers, planning and hosting a variety of community events, coordinating with athletic leagues, or helping families find the perfect rental venue to celebrate special occasions.
Michael's background in anthropology and history gives him a unique perspective on recreation programming. His archaeological experience, where pottery is one of the most commonly discovered artifacts, sparked a passion for ceramics that carried into his work at the pottery studio at Pinckneyville Park Community Recreation Center. One accomplishment he's especially proud of is the studio's 2024 revamp. Working alongside the pottery team, he helped create an even better experience for potters of all skill levels while discovering that ceramics is every bit as much a science as it is an art.
Michael believes parks and recreation offer something everyone needs. He says, “It's therapy and relaxation in a stressful world. We offer a little of something for everybody to enjoy.” Growing up in Gwinnett, he experienced that firsthand. One of his favorite childhood memories is catching a catfish at Collins Hill Park with his dad and Cub Scout troop. Now, he loves creating opportunities for families to make memories of their own, watching camp kids return summer after summer, seeing coworkers grow in their careers, or helping Gwinnettians celebrate life's biggest milestones.
Outside of work, you'll likely find Michael gardening, cooking, cheering on his favorite football team, or birdwatching at George Pierce Park, Tribble Mill Park, or Harbins Park.
We're proud to have Michael on our team and grateful for the energy, creativity, and community spirit he brings every day!
Every parks professional has their favorite places to explore. Here are a few of Michael's top picks:
• Best parks for hosting an event: Pinckneyville Park, Jones Bridge Park, and McDaniel Farm Park
• Favorite hiking trails: Gwinnett Environmental and Heritage Center, McDaniel Farm Park, and Tribble Mill Park
• Pro tip: Register early for programs and events. Popular activities can fill up quickly!
