Inspiring Play, One Park at a Time

About Desert Recreation

Bringing Playgrounds to Life Across Arizona for Over 30 Years

At Desert Recreation, Inc, we believe every community deserves a safe, engaging, and inspiring space to play. For more than three decades, we’ve specialized in designing, supplying, and installing high-quality playgrounds and recreational spaces throughout Arizona. From schools and parks to HOAs and municipalities, we’ve helped hundreds of clients turn their outdoor visions into reality.

As a local business, we pride ourselves on personalized service, responsive communication, and long-term partnerships. Our team brings deep expertise in the recreational industry, offering a full range of services—from site consultation and design to installation and maintenance support.

We are proud to represent industry-leading manufacturers known for innovation, safety, and durability. Whether you're building from the ground up or refreshing an existing play space, we provide tailored solutions that meet your budget, timeline, and community needs.

At Desert Recreation, Inc, it’s more than just equipment—it’s about creating spaces where kids laugh, communities connect, and memories are made.

FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS

Desert Recreation desires to meet your timelines.  Based on the size and complexity of your project time varies. Most playgrounds are shipped from the factory within 4-8 weeks after your order is placed and installation occurs within weeks following shipping.

Meet The Team

headshots11.21.25.jpg-21

Jeff Sheppard

Co-Owner

Jeff Sheppard brings a wealth of business and community experience to Desert Recreation, where he serves as Co-Owner. With a passion for improving the lives of children and creating safe, engaging spaces for play, Jeff is a driving force behind custom playground, shade, and recreation design across Arizona.

He holds a bachelor’s degree in liberal arts from Arizona State University and has a background in management and sales, which has sharpened his leadership and customer service expertise. Deeply committed to service, Jeff has volunteered in various roles including coaching sports, life coaching, mentoring underprivileged youth, and supporting church and civic initiatives.

View More
2

Scott Harter

Co-Owner

Scott has been a dedicated professional in the playground and parks industry since October 1991. He began his career as the Western Regional Manager for Landscape Structures, where he successfully oversaw a vast territory covering all states west of the Mississippi River, as well as parts of Canada. This invaluable experience laid the foundation for the next chapter of his journey.

In February 1994, Scott relocated his family from Minnesota to Arizona and launched Desert Recreation, Inc., serving as a manufacturer's representative. He quickly earned the rights to represent a diverse portfolio of approximately 12 recreational product lines—offering solutions tailored to the needs of parks, municipalities, schools, and residential developments.

Over the past 34 years, Scott has played a key role in the design and development of hundreds of playgrounds. His deep industry knowledge, hands-on approach, and commitment to excellence have made him a trusted partner in creating meaningful outdoor spaces.

At Desert Recreation, imagination truly meets experience. Scott and the team are here to help bring your next park or playground project to life—reach out today to get started.

View More