Santiago Oaks Regional Park in Orange feels very accessible to those who might be hesitant to explore the greater wilds of Orange County with kids. I would feel comfortable taking a toddler here, because the hikes are short and the pay-offs are big. [NOTE: There are still trail closures due to the October 2017 Canyon Fire 2 which heavily impacted this park. So … [Read more...]
Irvine Regional Park=4 Playgrounds + 1 Zoo + 1 Railroad + 1 Lake + Lots of Ponies
Irvine Regional Park is located in Orange, but you'll pass through Tustin, Irvine, and Orange as you climb Jamboree to reach this massive regional park. I even filed it under all three cities since it's close to them all and worth a little extra drive. You can get in with your OC Parks annual pass or pay $3 at the gate on weekdays ($5 on weekends). You'll find the scoop on the … [Read more...]
Playful Sponsor Feature: Wheel Fun Rentals at Irvine Park
Many thanks to Wheel Fun Rentals for their sponsorship. Their generous support over the years helps ensure I can keep bringing play to Orange County. Remember when volunteer North County Parks Reporter, Lisa, took a spin on a Wheel Fun Rentals® surrey bike at Irvine Regional Park? Wheel Fun Rentals® at Irvine Regional Park offers bike and paddle boat rentals. Their fleet of … [Read more...]
Coastkeeper Natural Play Garden
The Coastkeeper Natural Play Garden is (what I believe to be) the first public nature playground in Orange County. I cannot tell you how excited I am to share this magical place with you and your kids. All I did as a child was play outdoors and rarely on manufactured playgrounds, unless I was at school. This play space inside the Coastkeeper Garden will allow your kids to … [Read more...]
Steve Ambriz Memorial Park in Orange
Steve Ambriz Memorial Park in Orange features a large area dedicated to play with a little something for everyone. With two standard play structures and a large, abstract climb-on structure in the center, this place keeps my kids happily running from place to place for a very long time. There are ride-ons and plenty of swings to boot! Directions to Steve Ambriz Memorial … [Read more...]