Crawford Canyon Park in North Tustin opened in November 2025 with a new playground area on a corner lot at the intersection of Crawford Canyon Road and Newport Avenue.
It was a project of OC Parks on unincorporated land. I loved it when I visited, but didn't know what it looked like before. The press release upon opening said: "Surrounded by natural rolling landscapes and native plantings, the new 2.5-acre park includes two nature-themed playgrounds, exercise stations, picnic tables and more."
Directions to Crawford Canyon Park in North Tustin: It's rather easy to orient yourself to where this park is because Newport Avenue is the main thoroughfare from Tustin up into North Tustin. If you are coming up Newport Avenue from the area near Interstate 5, then you'll make a left turn into the parking lot before you see the main part of the park. If you are coming from the direction of Santiago Canyon Road, you'll turn right into the parking lot as you are headed downhill. (Park Address: 11001 Newport Blvd, North Tustin). MAP TO CRAWFORD CANYON PARK IN NORTH TUSTIN
Highlights:
I like the natural feel of the park with the native plantings which will fill in over time. It's also been designed for its water catchment features. So it serves a purpose beyond just being a park and playground.
This is the catchment basin by the parking lot, by the way!
The whole playground has a very nature-themed feel and the elements are spread apart to encourage movement.
There are two bench swings and one saucer swing. No baby swings at this playground.
Some of the "natural" elements are a log for climbing on which has ways to pass through underneath and a rock arch, along with other climbing elements.
There are also raised parts of the playground for balancing or making up obstacle course games.
You'll also find a rock arch and climbing ropes.
I loved the concrete slide, but can see how it can get hot on hot days.
There is a small grassy area with picnic tables at the top of the park.
There is also a small fitness course around the park which is spaced out along the walking loop on sidewalks.
Be Aware:
- No restrooms
- Not a lot of parking spaces - nine standard parking spaces with two ADA parking spaces.
- No shade over the play equipment or any of the park until the sycamores grow in and provide some natural shade. Suggest going on a cloudy or overcast day for the best experience!
- This park does have fall/winter (7am-6pm) and spring/summer (7am-9pm) hours. I assume the gate at the parking lot may close when the park is closed.
- The concrete slide can get HOT. So that's why I suggest cloudy day visits or have your kids wear long pants and shoes.
- This park is near a busy road where cars fly by at high speeds. There is quite a bit of distance between the playground and the road. And the play area is a little sunken from the road, but you still hear traffic noise when playing here.
- If your child tends to elope, then this might not be the best choice for you. I do have a list of enclosed playgrounds and also sand-free parks if those are better suited to your child!
- This park/playground is also situated on a hill, so there is a small climb from the parking lot up to the play equipment and grassy area. Not a flat park. Posted rules say no skateboards, no roller skates, and no in-line skates.
- Sand does spill on the sidewalk in some places which can make for it being slippery at the edges.
- Some elements, like the concrete slide are safety rated for 5-12 year olds.
Checklist:
- No restrooms
- Play surface: Recycled rubber and sand
- Water fountain for people and for dogs
- Read the official info about the park from its opening
Parks Nearby Crawford Canyon Park
You are actually very close to two OC Parks regional parks when you are visiting this one:
