San Diego Parks with Natural Playgrounds

Parks with natural playgrounds are gaining popularity throughout San Diego County. They feature environmentally friendly structures using mostly natural or recycled materials, which creates beautiful, exciting playgrounds that are fun and safe for kids of all ages.

Junior Quail Trail 230 Quail Gardens Dr., Encinitas

All photos credited to Sandra Page

Located within San Diego Botanic Garden is a garden designed for preschool-age kids (and their families) to connect with nature. The area is located at the far end of the garden, in the former Eucalyptus Grove. It features upcycled and natural materials, with a focus on movement and learning from one’s surroundings. Logs on the ground become balance beams; tree stumps become jumping platforms; and strategically placed pine cones, twigs, and rocks offer a spot for imaginative play and games.

Insider Tips:

• Junior Quail Trail is located inside SD Botanic Garden, which requires paid admission. Daily rates are $10/kids (ages 3–17), $18/adults. • Bring a stroller. The area is located opposite of the parking lot. You don’t want those little legs tired before arriving.

Nature Exploration Area 2221 Morley Field Dr., Balboa Park

One of the first designated natural playgrounds in San Diego County was when the Nature Exploration Area at Morley Field was built in 2015. At first glance, you might walk right past, as it blends in beautifully with natural elements of the park. Give your kids time to explore and soon you’ll be building forts with branches and other natural materials left behind. Enjoy a boulder climbing area and a table and chairs made of tree stumps.

Insider Tips:

• The area can be a tricky to find—it’s directly south of the

Balboa Tennis Club. • It’s also directly adjacent to Florida Canyon Trail, a perfect starting point for a day of nature exploration. • Park in front of the tennis club or in the lot off Morley Field Dr.

Estrella County Park 9813 Estrella Dr., Spring Valley

The newest natural playground to hit the area is Estrella County Park in Spring Valley. The park features natural play elements such as tree stumps and logs, perfect for children to climb on and jump to. You’ll also find a slide built into the hill, a swing and a kid-friendly suspension bridge. Native plants and trees line the walking path to and from the play area. There’s also an amphitheater and plenty of picnic tables for a group.

Insider Tips:

• Parking is limited to a small section of the street. • There is no shade; lather up that sunscreen!

Gershwin Park 3549 Conrad Ave., Clairemont Mesa

Within Gershwin Park in Clairemont is the Jennifer Jones Memorial Nature Exploration Area. This section includes 6,000 sq. ft. of natural play space that inspires imaginative play with tree stumps, big logs, boulders and small trails. Like all natural playgrounds, it was designed to be inviting and educational. It’s the perfect place to have a tree stump tea party!

Insider Tips:

• There’s a large grassy area to have a picnic. Stop by Clairemont Square to grab lunch—

Arely French Bakery (4961 Clairemont Dr. #A) is delicious. • There are no restrooms at this park. v

Discover more fun parks for families at www.sandiegofamily.com/ things-to-do/out-about. Local mom and San Diego blogger Sandra Page can be found adventuring on Instagram at @playdatesandpints.

June 2021 • SanDiegofamily.com • 25