Cedar Grove Park in Tustin: Under the Troll Bridge and Through the Woods

Cedar Grove Park in Tustin is a special place for picnics at the tables in the real cedar grove. See hummingbirds buzz around you and watch lizards skitter over the rocks. It’s fun to let the kids get up and explore while leisurely munching. For once, a mealtime without any rules. The play areas offer many themes for pretending and a trail up to Peter’s Canyon for the adventurous.

Directions to Cedar Grove Park in Tustin: Located near Jamboree and Tustin Ranch Roads. From the 5 freeway, exit at Jamboree. Follow Jamboree past retail area. Turn left on Tustin Ranch Road, then right onto Pioneer Way, and another right onto Pioneer Road to access parking lot. (Address: 11385 Pioneer Road, Tustin) MAP to Cedar Grove Park in Tustin

Highlights:

• Traditional play structures are located in the area closest to the parking lot and restrooms. The abstract climbing structures are just on the other side of the bridge, with the adult fitness area at the furthest point from the parking lot.
• Lively tree house theme in the large play area nearest to the parking lot
• Some shade built in directly over the larger structure with opportunities to duck away from the sun throughout the area
• Fun frog and snake guarding the play area – the snake even doubles as a bench!
• Fun abstract climbing area just on the other side of the bridge for larger kids which includes a low rope traverse between two rocks – half of the fun of this area is just trying to figure out what and how to climb
• Expansive fitness area for adults with a multitude of different human-powered machines in a beautiful and natural setting at the far end of the play areas
• Two bench swings located in the abstract climbing area and two baby swings

Be Aware:

• Only portions of the Cedar Grove are open for play. Look for signs posted in the trees. If you want nature, follow the trails and head behind the park.
• Summer camps, MOMS Club, Stroller Strides and other groups make use of this park. It’s such an enormous park that there’s room for all!

Checklist:

• Dedicated parking lot
• Bark play surface in the play areas with DG (decomposed granite) in the exercise area
• Nice bathrooms near play train (opposite side of park from cedar grove)
• Lots of shade under trees and patio cover
• Relaxed areas to view children – sit on planters or at picnic tables
• Perfect for picnics under cedars, but even more tables near main play area with grills
• 2 half-basketball courts and grass volleyball
• Official City of Tustin website for Cedar Grove Park
• Check out my post on Local Workout Parks with Outdoor Fitness Equipment to see the new equipment at Cedar Grove

Parks Nearby Cedar Grove Park in Tustin:

• Pioneer Road Park
• Citrus Ranch Park
• Settler’s Park

Photo credit: Lisa Lasater

Originally published August 2008.