Skip to Content

30+ Best Toddler Friendly Parks in Orange County

30+ Best Toddler Friendly Parks in Orange County

You asked for the best toddler friendly parks in Orange County and you helped with making the list!

Finding a toddler playground that works for that age is tough. Mostly because playgrounds in general are only rated for 2-5 year olds or 5-12 year olds.

I think it’s become a need for parents lately because playground renovations are happening and tend to lean towards older kids and new horizontal climbing opportunities. I hear complaints about all those rope and netting components of new playgrounds! Those don’t feel as toddler-friendly and can make parents anxious.

As you go through the list just understand that it’s not always easy to know/remember if a playground is rated for 2-5 year olds. It’s not always posted – or if it is – I might have missed it on my visit. So the ones I’m sharing here are recommendations from parents and caregivers, plus ones I’ve liked in my own experiences, but please make your own risk assessment at any playground.

So beyond the playground safety rating what makes a park get on a toddler-friendly parks list? I had no idea when I started this project what that specifically includes, but I quickly figured out that baby swings and restrooms are pretty nice to have! And a mom named Marlene put it into words perfectly: “. . . and I don’t have to climb up behind her on everything.” Yes! That is what makes toddler playgrounds work for caregivers and kids!

Make sure you read to the end because I link to lists for:

  • Swing-with-Me Swings
  • Universally Accessible Parks
  • Petting Zoos & Animal Playgrounds
  • Parks for Train Lovers

Best Toddler Parks in Orange County

It is 100% based on opinion and I can't really advocate for playing on equipment that's above the posted age. Just keep in mind that you might not like them when you get there and they might not be a good fit for your toddler. It's up to you to decide if it's appropriate for your family.

Here are a few more parks that were recommended for the list, but aren’t on my blog.

This list will always be a work-in-progress — so please send in your recommendations to play@funorangecountyparks.com!

More Toddler Friendly Park and Play Ideas

Read my post about Swing with Me Swings

mommy and me swings parks with swings

Universally Accessible Playgrounds in Orange County

Accessible Playgrounds in Orange County

47+ Petting Zoos and Animal Playgrounds in Orange County

30+ Train Parks and Railroad Museums in Orange County

6 Best Toddler Beaches with No Waves

And if you are just looking for a list of the best playgrounds in Orange County, I have a list of the Best Playgrounds in Orange County (by Feature). There are actually over 20 playgrounds in that post because I have my top picks, plus runner-ups. That post even has a checklist so you can have fun visiting and keeping track of your playground visits!

10 Best Orange County Playgrounds