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Posts Tagged ‘Playgrounds’

Kids Can Do More than Just Play at Railroad Mini Park

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Have you visited Railroad Mini Park? This modest park is right off Stone Avenue near Downtown Greenville, so it is perfect for a quick play date after school or on the weekend. KAG contributor and local mom, Deborah, visited the park and tells us why this park offers more than just play.

What to Expect at Railroad Mini Park

No railroad. No train. This park is named after the street it is near, Railroad Street. Just a quarter mile off Stone Avenue, you’ll find a large grassy area, a full basketball court, and a playground. Park along Becker Street or Scott Street and walk across the grass.

View of the playground at Railroad Mini Park in Greenville, South Carolina

This playground is perfect for children of all ages and will improve balance and strength. The bouncy balance beam is a fun twist to the classic balance beam. No one will have to wait to slide with two slides on opposite sides of the playground. In the center, there are a few games. My boys’ favorite game was the spinner. Spin the arrow and then find that symbol somewhere on the playground.

A large cover keeps much of the playground shaded when the sun is at its highest. Bring a picnic to enjoy at the picnic table under the shade beside the playground. If you don’t want to pack a picnic, drive less than a mile and enjoy Willy Taco, where kids and adults can enjoy deliciously fresh Mexican food and even play a game of cornhole.

Railroad Mini Park sits just half a mile from NorthPointe, home to Harris Teeter, stores and restaurants, apartments, and a large parking garage.

Bring a basketball and other lawn games and your whole family to enjoy the park and maybe do a little shopping too. Yet another day made great in Greenville!

Obstacles on the playground at Railroad Mini Park in Greenville, SC

Railroad Mini Park
32 Becker Street, Greenville

Have you taken your kids to the new Railroad Mini Park yet?


Park Guide to Greenville, SC

Want to check out even more great parks in the Greenville area? Visit our guide to parks near Greenville, SC for info and reviews on tons of local parks!


Kid Venture 2.0 in Anderson, SC is Full of Playful Structures and a Splash Pad!

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Have you been to Kid Venture 2.0, the Anderson splash pad, and the playground yet? We are here to tell you all about it because you are going to really love it!

kid venture 2.0 anderson sc

The Splash Pad

Let’s just start there because that’s why you’re reading this story, isn’t it? The splash pad is open starting May 24, 2025, and runs through early August, daily from 9 am – 8 pm. Then only Tuesday, Thursday, Saturday, and Sunday, plus Labor Day.

Kid Venture 2.0 Anderson splash pad

The design of the entire playground is so playful and fun, including the splash pad. There is water that comes out from the ground as well as drops from above in structures that are tall and colorful. There isn’t much shade yet at the splash pad but the county will be planting trees along the benches to help remedy that challenge. They couldn’t do it in the heat of summer or the trees would die. 

The entire splash pad is fenced in and sits right next to the path along the pond where the ducks and geese are. 

The Playground

The whole playground is ADA-accessible and part of the playground is also sensory-friendly. Glenn Brill, the Director of the Parks, Recreation & Tourism Division for Anderson County, told me this playground is meant to be for everyone. His enthusiasm was contagious and I could easily see how excited he is for the playground and splash pad to open to the public. 

There is an adorable little market area for little kids with a fire truck for them to drive, tunnels to climb through, and an imitation farmers market. It is so cute and they call it the Lil Village. Aw!

Kid Venture 2.0 playground

The sensory-friendly area is just beyond that part with cozy nooks to sit inside. 

Part of the original playground from Kid Venture is still there and it includes some of the swing and bigger slides and walkways. There’s also a spinning area called Swingin & Blues with little seats that spin, a mushroom spinning wheel kids can hang onto, and a wheelchair-accessible ground level spinning covered seat Merry Go Round. My kids loved this one. 

There are beautiful shaded areas with benches throughout the playground and the ground is quite soft. 

The Bathrooms

The bathrooms are large and beautiful and heavy duty. Glenn told me they double as a storm shelter and can sustain winds up to 120 mph. You didn’t know a bathroom could do that, did you? Don’t feel bad, neither did I. 

The bathrooms are on automatic locks and are open 8 am – 8 pm and are right inside the playground next to the splash pad for easy access. 

The Picnic Shelter

There’s a nice, big shaded picnic area at Kid Venture but the county isn’t renting it out – it’s first come, first served. So if you want to have a birthday party there for your kid (which would be pretty cool), just get there early and set up. There’s no charge for having a party there or any other gathering.

Visiting Kid Venture 2.0

Kid Venture 2.0 has a lot going for it and as a parent, the two things I noticed straight away that I thought were so key was that the entire playground is fenced in and that there are plenty of shaded areas for sitting. And the shade isn’t just some canopy. Nope. They are gorgeous butterflies and flowers, so eye-catching and pretty and useful! If you’ve been to Dollywood, these look very similar to the shade structures they have there.

Kid Venture 2.0

The playground is open daily for play, bathrooms open from 8 am – 8 pm. The splash pad is open daily starting Memorial Day, 9 am – 8 pm.

There is no fee for the playground or splash pad. The county has installed cameras throughout the park for security as well. 

I brought my kids, ages 11 and 7, to both the playground and splash pad, and they loved it. I’d say the best ages are toddlers through middle school, maybe a bit younger. Kid Venture 2.0 is such a great addition to Anderson County and I think the community will truly love this place. 

Kid Venture
7 Jim Ed, Rice Circle, Anderson
864.260.4800
Kid Venture Facebook page

parks and playgrounds spartanburg greenville

Looking for more parks and playgrounds near Greenville, SC? Here’s your ultimate guide to all the parks and playgrounds in the Upstate.

North Main Rotary Park is a Unique Park in Downtown Greenville Your Family is Sure to Love

Had enough sun? Check out the cool and shady North Main Rotary Park. Kidding Around readers love this park and think you will too. After all, it offers a playground you won’t see at every park, a cool amphitheater, and more!

Want more ideas for outdoor activities? Check out our Ultimate Guide to Outdoor Activities

North Main Rotary Park in Greenville

About North Main Rotary Park

First off, North Main Rotary Park is shady, which you’ll really appreciate on a hot summer day. This park is surrounded by tall trees on three sides keeping it well-shaded all summer long! Plus North Main Rotary Park has a stream running through it and includes several different areas to play. And really, what child doesn’t love exploring a stream on a hot day?

We parked in a lot right next to the Bobby Pearse Community Center on Townes rather than park on along the road near the baseball field. That meant we needed to cross a bridge into the park. How cool to cross a bridge and end up in a woodland park!

The climbing structure at Rotary Park

As we entered the first park’s zone, we saw picnic areas, accessible swings, and two fun climbing structures. One for older children and one for younger kids. It was so much fun swinging up to and seeing the tall trees. We spent a lot of time in this area, most of it swinging.

Accessible swings

Ball fields and a basketball court at North Main Rotary Park

We then walked up to the baseball field we had seen while trying to find the park. My son and I didn’t bring a ball, glove or bat so, we kept exploring. It looked like a great place to play ball though.

In a corner of the park, we found a fenced-in basketball court with a single hoop. We decided this would be a fun place to play a game of Horse!

Just past the basketball court, we saw a bat house high up in a tree. It was way too early in the day to see bats, but we still looked for them. It would be fun to see one high up in the trees – maybe we’ll head back one evening soon!

The amphitheater at North Main Rotary Park

Beyond the basketball court up on a hill we found a small amphitheater. What fun it would be to bring books to share or music to sing or play to act there. It is separated from the playground zone by a stream. Kids could perform or read there and, in case they’re shy, no one would see them from below.

I was impressed that this park was so clean, so quiet, and such fun. We will be going back to visit it over and over again.

amphitheatre at North Main Rotary Park in Greenville

Visit North Main Rotary Park

904 Townes Street, Greenville
(North Main Street & Ashley Avenue)
Visit the North Main Rotary Park website here.

Have you ever taken your kids to North Main Rotary Park?

parks and playgrounds spartanburg greenville

Did you know there are tons of parks and playgrounds in the Upstate? We have the biggest list of parks near Greenville, SC!

Holmes Park near Downtown Greenville Has a Playground Your Kids Will Love

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Do you want to find a great playground in an old neighborhood? Your children are sure to enjoy playing at Holmes Park. KAG contributor, Deborah, checked it out and found a tranquil park full of activities for children, teens and adults.

If you’re looking for more great parks to visit see our Greenville parks page.

Until just a few weeks before her 100th birthday, my grandmother lived in the quiet neighborhood of Dellwood. I have wonderful memories of walking down the street to Holmes Park where I could play at the playground and run around. Of course, as a child, I had no idea that Holmes Park is located just 3 miles from Cherrydale and 2 miles from downtown Greenville.

I didn’t think about how nice it was to not have to wait to go down the slide or how easy it was for my mom to keep track of me. I just loved being a kid. Now, I get to share this lovely park with my boys.

Holmes Park new playground in Greenville

About Holmes Park

The adventure begins the moment you get out of the car. You can barely see the playground from the parking lot which means you get to run up the path, beside the covered pavilion, all the way up to the playground.

This bright playground’s plethora of climbing structures makes it feel like an obstacle course. Your children will be challenged and determined to conquer the hanging triangle tunnel. The slide stands out from others with a climbing wall to reach the top instead of a ladder.

The teacup-like ride, rotating shuttle, and netted tunnel complete the draw this playground will have for every child aged 5-12. There is a fully shaded bench where you can sit and watch your children, but the playground is not shaded.

The giant live oak tree right beside the playground will draw your children into nature’s playground. You can climb its thick, low branches, hide in its leaves, and let your imagination run wild. An excellent frisbee golf course encircles the park. Most of the course is shaded which means you could take a nice walk even in the heat of the summer.

You will also find tennis courts and a ball field in the center of the park, and restrooms are across the field from the playground.

Holmes Park giant tree

Visit Holmes Park

111 Holmes Drive, Greenville
6 am – 9 pm daily
Visit the Holmens Park website.

Have you taken your kids to explore Holmes Park since the new playground was installed?

Gower Estates Park Has a Zip Line For Your Kids to Enjoy

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Are you looking for an awesome playground to visit without leaving Greenville?
Gower Estates Park has a zip line and plenty of shade, making it an excellent choice for your next park day!

Gower Estates Park in Greenville, South Carolina

I had never been to Gower Estates Park until we were invited to a birthday party there. This little park is secretly tucked away just off Lauren’s Road. If you’re like my kids, you call it “the park with the tank”. Yes, it has an army tank and the kids can climb all over it. #funpictures! Gower has some great tennis courts and a couple of very nice baseball fields.

The playground at Gower Estates Park

The Playground at Gower Estates Park

The best part is the playground equipment! The set boasts a two-level jungle gym with a slide. Next to it is a fun hanging merry-go-round sort of thing. (Try it and see if you can hang on!)

A Zipline

And last but not least, the feature that will provoke endless giggles and be the reason why you return to the park, is a zip line. Picture the zip line everyone waits for at Hertklotz, but five times longer and you get to sit on it. So much fun! My kids even forgot that it was 93 degrees for a few minutes. I’m guessing this is our new request for go-to parks.

Parents, here’s your takeaway on the new digs. Metal poles are made with this material that doesn’t get hot in the sun. Fresh mulch is not dyed, so don’t worry about stains on clothes. There is a cover on the playground and lots of trees so there’s plenty of shade. And the main attraction for parents? The bathrooms are generally clean!

The zipline at Gower Park

Disc Golf, Tennis Courts, and Picnic Shelters to Rent

Not only does Gower Park have an excellent playground, but it also has softball fields, basketball courts, tennis/pickleball courts, and more. There is also a 9-hole disc golf course that is a fun way to spend an afternoon with your kids.

You will also find a paved walking trail, perfect for pushing a stroller or taking your young kids out to practice riding their bikes or scooters.

If you want to rent a shelter at Gower Park, you can for birthday parties, special events, or family gatherings. They offer half-day or full-day rentals, with 5 covered picnic shelters available.

Visit Gower Estates Park

Gower Park
24 Evelyn Avenue, Greenville
Open daily 6 am – 9:30 pm

What is your favorite thing about the renovated Gower Estates Park?


Park Guide to Greenville, SC

Check out our KA Guide to Parks Near Greenville, SC for a detailed guide of what each park offers!

Play, Fish, and Boat at Anchor Park on Lake Bowen: The Largest Lake in Spartanburg County

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Inside: A real parent review of Anchor Park at Lake Bowen in Spartanburg, SC. Learn about the playground, water access, boating, and other amenities.


Anchor Park at Lake Bowen

Looking for a family-friendly lake near Spartanburg where kids can play and parents can relax?

Anchor Park at Lake Bowen in Inman, SC offers a fully fenced playground, shady picnic spots, and easy access to water activities like fishing, kayaking, and boating—all in one scenic location. Read on for everything you need to know about what this great park has to offer!

For more ideas on outdoor activities this summer, check out our list of Things to do Outside in Spartanburg, SC!

About Lake Bowen

Lake Bowen is the largest lake in Spartanburg County, covering over 1,500 acres with approximately 33 miles of shoreline. It is managed by Spartanburg Water as a scenic reservoir which families can enjoy. Anchor Park is a fantastic place to do just that, with ample parking, playgrounds and picnic shelters, multiple ways to access Lake Bowen, and the Lake Bowen Warden’s Office.

Image shows Anchor Park sculpture, sign, playgrounds, and picnic pavilion.

Anchor Park Playground

Anchor Park offers some of the best playgrounds in Inman. It is fully fenced all the way around with gates on each side for easy access in and out. There are two different play structures, one for little kids and one for bigger kids, plus a swing set and a few different options for sensory play.

Image shows the central picnic shelter at Anchor Park.

One picnic shelter sits between the two play structures, allowing parents to easily supervise both, and another picnic shelter sits a little farther up the hill, giving a great view of the entire play area. There are a few benches around the park for additional seating, and a paved path loops around it, too, for those who want to walk, bring bicycles or tricycles, or even color with sidewalk chalk.

Men’s and women’s restrooms are conveniently located right outside the fenced play area, and there are trees scattered throughout offering some shady spots where you can get out of the heat. Plus, there is just no beating the incredible wraparound view of Lake Bowen. You’ll be able to observe all the wildlife and water sports right from the shores of the park!

Image shows fishing pier over Lake Bowen.

Fishing on Lake Bowen

Anchor Park is the ideal place to access Lake Bowen for water sports. Whether you’re interested in fishing, kayaking, paddleboarding, or boating, you’re going to find a way to do it right here.

The entire shoreline is perfect for fishing. You can stand right on the rocks and drop your line in the water, take advantage of the two dedicated fishing piers, or even climb down onto a small muddy shoreline when the water level is low enough. Because the lake wraps around the park, it’s not hard to find spots in full sun or partial shade at any time of day, either.

Just remember to purchase a fishing license in advance of your visit for any anglers ages 16 years or older! Fishing licenses are not required for freshwater fishing in South Carolina on Memorial Day or Independence Day. Magnet fishing is always prohibited under South Carolina state law.

Image shows watercraft on Lake Bowen from shores of Anchor Park.

Water Sports on Lake Bowen

If you want to get out on the water, this is definitely the place to do it! We’ve seen jet skis, tubing, pontoon boats, and more come on and off the water around Anchor Park.

There is a special access point for paddlecraft, or non-powered watercraft, to enter and exit the lake if you follow the road to the right around the park and playground. There are also two boat ramps across the parking lot if you drive towards the left as you enter the park.

Image shows dock and launch for non-powered watercraft, otherwise known as paddelcraft.

Spartanburg Water requires watercraft permits for both powered and non-powered vessels on Lake Bowen. Permits start at $25 for non-powered vessels and go up from there, with lower prices for locals and highest prices for out-of-state visitors. Permits are only available at the Warden’s Office, so be sure to call in advance at 864.592.2240. Office hours are posted, but exact hours vary as the warden comes and goes.

Boat registration with South Carolina Department of Natural Resources is also required for any watercraft not relying on human power. This means that paddlecraft such as canoes, kayaks, and stand-up paddleboards are exempt, but motorized boats will need to be registered. Boat registration starts at about $20 and can be done online.

Image shows a large sign with a few life jackets hanging under it, which can be borrowed by visitors at Anchor Park.

Life jackets are required under South Carolina state law for all children under 12 years old. A limited number of life jackets are available to borrow near the non-powered watercraft dock, but it’s a good idea to bring your own in case these run out.

Visit Lake Bowen

Park Hours: 6 am-midnight
Restroom Hours: 6:30 am-7 pm
Watercraft Hours: Sunrise to sunset
Warden Office Hours: 7:30 am-6 pm, 7 days a week

📍 Address: 8515 Highway 9, Inman, SC 29349
📞 Phone: 864.592.2240
🔗 Lake Bowen Website

What’s your family’s favorite thing to do at Lake Bowen?

RELATED: Renting a Boat on Lake Cooley Needs to be on Your Summer Bucket List

Pinckney-Fludd Park Has a Climbing Structure Your Kids will Love

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Are you looking for a new park to explore in downtown? KAG contributor and local mom, Deborah, has the scoop on Pinkney Fludd Park and some other exciting ways to enjoy your time downtown. Pinckney Fludd Park offers a fun playground, climbing structure and more, all within a short walk of Heritage Green.

What you’ll find at Pinckney-Fludd Park

The small neighborhood park of Pinckney Fludd is on Pinckney Street just up from the beautiful, historic district of Hampton-Pinckney. The first house in this district was built by William Pinckney McBee, Vardry McBee’s son, before the Civil War, so you can expect mature trees and a wide street in a quiet neighborhood.

Just three minutes away from Heritage Green, this park makes the perfect addition to a day at the Children’s Museum or the Hughes Main Library!

Parking for the Pickney Fludd Park is conveniently located on Pinckney Street right in front of the gate. The park is fully enclosed and includes a basketball net as well as a picnic table and shaded bench. The new playground equipment did not disappoint!

My boys loved trying to climb across the playground without ever touching the ground. They even made it a race by timing themselves. As your children tryout the playground’s climbing structures, they will build confidence, determination, and important motor skills.

The go-round was a highlight to the playground. You can safely spin around in it very quickly, and even when you stop pushing it, it will continue to turn around slowly when children are in it. My son was super excited when he noticed the “space ship.” He called it this because of the clear dome at the top of the slide. These kinds of features really ignite the imagination of a child!

Pinckney Fludd park in downtown Greenville

More to do after you visit the park

After the playground, we decided to drive down to the Greenville Train Station and were thrilled to watch a long train pulling all sorts of military vehicles! Trains and tanks – how can you go wrong!

Last, but not least, this park is only a block from two trolley stops on the Arts West line, or green line. Catch a free ride downtown to the farmer’s market from 10 am – 2 pm on Saturdays.

Or, enjoy our exciting downtown Thursday through Sunday evenings. Be sure to download the Trolley Tracker app so you know exactly when the next trolley will arrive.

Grab a basketball and bring your entire family out for a fun day or evening together!

parks and playgrounds spartanburg greenville

Did you know there are TONS of parks and playgrounds near you? We’ve got the Ultimate List of Parks and Playgrounds Near Greenville, SC.

Pittman Park Has A Shaded Playground for a Hot Summer Day

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Have you visited Pittman Park?
This Greenville area park has a shaded playground with mature trees that make it perfect for those hot summer days when you want to avoid the sun at all costs. The Gary L. Pittman Memorial Park is one of KAG Contributor Lindy Wilson’s favorites! It offers a shaded playground, a walking trail, space to roam, soccer fields to practice on, and more!

View of the playground at Pittman Park in Greenville, South Carolina

About Pittman Park

Pittman Park is located off Blacks Road, which runs from Pelham Road to Roper Mountain Road. This makes it a very convenient stop when running errands in that area or Woodruff Road, as well as close to the 385 and 85. It also is near the Pelham Road branch of the library. The location makes Pittman Park the perfect park to stop by on a hot summer day!

The Playground at Pittman Park

If your kids need space to run, they’ll love Pittman Park as it offers many fields and is great for soccer. Or bring your child’s bike and circle the fields on the paved trail. It’s the perfect spot to burn some energy between errands!

The playground is a bit old school with a tall metal design, but it is fun. There are lots of slides including smaller ones you can assist an older baby down. There is no toddler playground, however, there are toddler swings as well as standard ones. The ground is covered with wood chips which are much less messy than the sand found at some playgrounds. Our 1-year-old has no issue navigating the playground and loves the double slide where we can ride down together safely.

Pittman Park tends to be a good warm weather park as there is plenty of shade thanks to the trees surrounding the park. The ice cream truck even stops by occasionally. You’ll find various benches for sitting or even having a picnic. While there are no reservations for use, it’s a popular spot for birthday parties. (See our list of Inexpensive Birthday Party Ideas in Greenville for even more suggestions.)

View from a distance of Pittman Park

Restrooms

The bathroom is relatively close but it’s up the hill so it can be a little trek from the play area. Keep that in mind if you have newly potty-trained toddlers. The bathrooms are outdated but are usually kept clean and maintained. You’ll also find water fountains next to the bathrooms.

Soccer & Sports Fields

The park can be busy as there are several soccer fields. However, it’s so big that crowding is almost never an issue. You will regularly see groups using the fields to practice volleyball, soccer, rugby, and even flying kites in the lower fields.

Parking & Landscape at Pittman Park

The parking lot is pretty unique in that it’s oriented longways so there are many spots right along the grass/sidewalk. This is nice because kids can jump out of the car and hit the park without crossing through the parking lot. The fact that the park is downhill from the parking lot also means it’s harder for kids to run off. The landscaping retaining wall also helps as does the more open playground design. I can usually spot my kids without running around to see past walls. This puts my mind at ease while allowing my kids to freely explore.

Kids Biking and Scootering

The park is a great place to ride a scooter or bike, but do know that there are places on the paved trail where roots have pushed up the asphalt, so it gets a little bumpy in places.

Toddler swings at Pittman Park

Overall, Pittman is a great park. A fun playground, a nice trail, lots of grassy fields, and some nice places to sit in the shade all make it a winner in our book. We hope you enjoy it too!

Visit Pittman Park

Pittman Park
420 Blacks Road, Greenville

What do you and your kids love the most about Pittman Park?


Park Guide to Greenville, SC

Looking for more parks in Greenville? Check out our KA Park Guide, with all the information you need for a perfect park day!

Explore the Reedy Creek Park, Nature Center, & Preserves in Charlotte, NC

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Have you visited Reedy Creek Park in Charlotte, NC?
Local mom, Sarah, visited the park with her 3 kids and they had such a wonderful time exploring the Reedy Creek Park Nature Center, the playgrounds, natural play spaces, trails, and more!
The best part is there’s no admission. Reedy Creek Park is FREE! Read on to learn more about their visit and get all Sarah’s tips to plan your adventure at Reedy Creek Park.


Just a few short miles past the heart of Charlotte, NC you can find Reedy Creek Park, home to the nearly 1,000 acres of the Reedy Creek Nature Center and Preserve. Travel time is 1 hour 30 minutes from Spartanburg. SC, 1 hour 45 minutes from Greenville, SC, and 1 hour 50 minutes from Columbia, SC. Factor in that the park is COMPLETELY free to access, including convenient parking throughout, and this place is a dream come true for your next family excursion!

Reedy Creek Park Nature Preserve playground

Reedy Creek Nature Center

We recommend starting in the heart of the park at the small but worthwhile Nature Center. With ample parking and a short, paved path up to the building, this is a great place to start out with kids of any age and determine which parts of the park you want to explore. You’ll find free, easy-to-read maps, clean restrooms with changing tables, and a gift shop packed with educational materials and fun souvenirs for all ages. The gift shop leads straight into the Nature Center, which is one large room of hands-on exhibits for kids to explore!

When our family visited the Nature Center, we found a microscope projector with a variety of artifacts to check out, including butterflies and scorpions. There were explorer costumes to borrow, a treehouse to climb, a fairy village on display, and even a covered reading nook where quieter children could enjoy a wide selection of nature-themed picture books.

Reedy Creek Nature Center

Our personal favorite spot, though, was the set of rocking chairs—with sizes for both children and adults—facing out wall-sized windows towards a beautiful hummingbird garden. Once you are ready to venture outside, be sure to ask if there’s a scavenger hunt going on! If so, bringing back a completed scavenger hunt sheet can earn your kids a prize.

You will find one of the best attractions in the whole park right outside the Nature Center: a sprawling wooded area that has been carefully curated for young explorers. The main attraction is a set of large platforms and bridges, surrounded by high railings to ensure safety. This structure has only two access points, both of which come out on the same side, making it easy to supervise children without ever having to chase them!

Reedy Creek Nature Park play space

Beyond that, there are multiple climbing areas, all appropriately sized for preschool and elementary-aged kiddos. There’s plenty for older kids in this area, too, with a long and winding balance beam carved from real trees and a huge stockpile of long, thick branches that can be used to build any kind of fort imaginable! Plus a bonus for parents: several benches with clear visibility of the ENTIRE play area.

Dragonfly Pond

The next major attraction at Reedy Creek Park is absolutely the water features, and it could be worth making an entire trip to spend at this area alone! There are two sizable ponds, the larger of which allows fishing and has a handicap-accessible fishing pier.

Rods and reels are available to borrow free of charge from the Nature Center, but a fishing license issued by the State of North Carolina is required for ages 16 & up, so plan ahead to obtain one of those prior to your visit!

In the area surrounding the ponds, there are also several picnic structures, restrooms, a volleyball court, a disc golf course, and a Panthers Play60 playground for all ages! This area has some woods and a lot of sun, so be sure to pack sunscreen if this is where you plan to spend your day.

Play 60 Park in Reedy Creek Nature Center

Sports Complex

The last area that might be most desirable for families is the playground and sports complex right by the entrance. This is the smallest play area of the park, featuring one play structure each for toddlers and older kiddos alongside a couple of swing sets.

Here you will find another volleyball court, as well as a basketball court and what looked to be a couple of baseball diamonds. There are also picnic structures and restrooms available in this area, and the woods provide a nice balance of sun and shade everywhere except the baseball diamonds.

Hiking Trails at Reedy Creek Park

Other features of the park to note are the dog park and the hiking trails. Dogs are also allowed in all outside spaces of the park as long as they are leashed, and I cannot recommend Reedy Creek Park enough for beginning hikers or those hiking with little ones!

All trails are easily accessible from the parking lots scattered throughout the park, and trail lengths range from 1/10th of a mile to 1.5 miles. The park maps available at the Nature Center include details on each trail, specifying not only the length but the difficulty, incline, shade, and points of interest on each one!

All the hiking paths are either natural, gravel, or a mix of both. All-terrain wheelchairs are available to borrow at no cost from the Nature Center on weekdays, but reservations are required at least 4 days in advance to ensure availability. Other than that, only foot traffic is permitted on the hiking trails.

Cyclists and those walking with strollers will want to wait for the greenway currently under construction, with completion expected by Summer 2025!

Hummingbird Festival

An annual highlight at Reedy Creek Park is the Hummingbird Festival held every August! Contact the Nature Center at 980.314.1119 for details on the event and any special activities that may require advance registration. Arriving early in the morning is best to guarantee plenty of hummingbird sightings and special activities could include limited-time exhibits, science experiments, arts & crafts, and storytelling!

Reedy Creek Park playground

Tips for Visiting Reedy Creek Park

  • During the warm seasons, pack sunscreen & bug spray.
  • During cooler seasons, wear layers for indoor & outdoor fun.
  • Plan multiple visits or a full day trip to see all that this incredible park has to offer. You can pack your own snacks & lunch, or make a quick trip out to one of the many kid-friendly restaurants in the larger Charlotte area!
  • For fishing, purchase your fishing license in advance & pack your own supplies. Rods & reels are available to borrow at the Nature Center, but supplies may be limited.
  • For details on facility reservations, seasonal programs, offerings, or temporary closures, just call the Nature Center staff at 980.314.1119 during their open hours!
Reedy Creek Park sign

About the Reedy Creek Nature Preserve

So what are you waiting for? Plan your family’s next day trip to Reedy Creek Park today!

General Park Information:

  • Hours: Monday-Saturday, 9 am-5 pm / Sunday, 1-5 pm
  • Address: 2986 Rocky River Road, Charlotte, NC 28215
  • Website: Reedy Creek Nature Preserve
  • Email: rcnp@MeckNC.gov
  • Phone: 980-314-1119

Other Helpful Links”

Reedy Creek Park, Nature Center, and Preserve
2900 Rocky River Road
Charlotte, NC
980.314.1119

Visit the Reedy Creek Nature Center Website to learn more & plan your trip!

Events Coming up at Reedy Creek Nature Center

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sat25oct10:00 amsat4:30 pmBOO!seum: Trick-or-Treat (Greenville & Spartanburg)TCMU10:00 am - 4:30 pm(GMT-04:00) TCMU Greenville, 300 College StreetPrice:Price of Admission ($12-$15)

Have you ever been to the Reedy Creek Nature Center?


Parks in Charlotte NC, Great playgrounds in Charlotte, NC

The parks and playgrounds in Charlotte are super fun!

Check out the Kidding Around® Guide to Parks in Charlotte, NC.

Day Trip Guide to Charlotte, North Carolina

For more day trip ideas see our list of Day Trips from Charlotte, NC.


Greer City Park is a Park Your Entire Family will Love

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Have you visited Greer City Park? This park includes a playground, landscaped green spaces, and a fountain, plus hosts many local events and festivals.

Greer City Park

An Evening Stroll in Greer City Park

Parks and playgrounds near Greenville, South Carolina

For more parks in Greenville, see our Ultimate Guide to Parks in Greenville.

Are you looking for a great local park with plenty of things for your little ones to enjoy and explore? Look no further than Greer City Park!  Find it at 301 East Poinsett Street in Greer!

About Greer City Park

Located right in the heart of downtown Greer is a charming, yet modern, recreation area that boasts all of the best amenities. Visitors can enjoy playing ball in any of the park’s wide open spaces, taking a stroll or bike ride along one of the beautifully landscaped walkways, having a picnic under a pavilion, or bouncing around on the new rubber turf slab surrounding the large playground.

The park has a great mix of interesting characteristics, including a gazebo, an adorable little pond, a large fountain, bench swings, an amphitheater, beautiful rock features, and lovely brick facades.

Slides at Playground at Greer City Park

Playground and Picnic Shelter

A large pavilion next to the playground provides plenty of tables and shade for a picnic or birthday party. Also, right next to the playground are drinking fountains and bathroom facilities. I loved that the playground was set back a good stroll away from the parking lot. In the heat of the summer, visitors might find the playground a bit hot since it is right in the direct sun.

Fountain at Greer City Park

Greer City Park Has Three Beautiful Fountains

The top of the park features a circular fountain that is a lot of fun for kids to run around. There is also a fountain right beside the large one that is great for photos. There, you’ll find a few bench swings to relax at under a pergola. Down the hill, closer to the playground, there is a huge pond with a lovely fountain and gazebo you can walk into and see some koi fish below.

A second set of restrooms is located near the fountain and amphitheater.

Lots of Sun & Access to Downtown Greer

On the particular day my youngest son and I set out to review this park, the skies were a beautiful blue streaked with puffy white clouds, the birds were out, and the flowers had burst open all throughout the park – everything was singing of Spring!

My 4-year-old loved the obstacle-course style features on the playground and kicking a bouncy ball through an adjacent open lawn. We enjoyed a picnic lunch next to the playground along with a few of our friends. Next time I’ll probably pack the scooters or a kite. We couldn’t have asked for a better afternoon!

Playground and picnic table Greer SC

Greer City Park
301 East Poinsett Street, Greer
Visit the Greer City Park website.

For more parks with sun for the hotter months, see our list of Sunny Playgrounds in Greenville.

If you’re looking for a special treat, the park borders downtown Greer.  Frozen custard, coffee shops, and restaurants are just an easy walk away.

What’s your favorite thing to do at Greer City Park?

Greer City Park

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