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.
How to Get 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. Many of the trees have been cut down in recent years, so the grove isn’t as thick or healthy looking as it used to be.
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
- Check out my post on Local Workout Parks with Outdoor Fitness Equipment to see more parks with fitness equipment.
- 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
Parks Nearby Cedar Grove Park in Tustin:
Photo credit: Lisa Lasater
Originally published August 2008.
Katie Sweeney
Monday 29th of May 2017
There are baby swings at this park :)
Laurel
Friday 27th of December 2013
We went to this park today - I didn't realize that the train was gone! I was disappointed, but the new play structures are nice. There were baby swings today, maybe they switch them out every so often? It's a good park for the mix of structures and free play.
Wendy
Friday 20th of September 2013
Teresa if you're referring to the top picture, I'm pretty sure that's the trail leading through the Cedar Grove on the edge of the park.
Teresa
Thursday 12th of September 2013
Hi, I have been to Cedar Grove Park a few times and took my son there for biking on the trail, but I don't recognized the picture you have for the trail. is there another trail on the north side of the park? I have been on the trail that is on the south side of the park that leads to Peters Canyon Park and North Tustin. Thanks.