2020-11-08 Red Oaks County Park. Madison Heights, MI…read more
I've been taking my kids to this playground for years, and I think it's one that is highly underrated. Don't know why I never tried checking in on Yelp, but now that I have, I see that it's not even on the map!
Tucked away behind the Red Oaks Youth Soccer Complex, the entrance to the parking lot is off of Dartmouth Street which is accessed by either John R (to the east) or 12 Mile Rd. (to the south). At the corner of John R and 12 Mi is a large plaza with a Lowe's and the new BJ's Wholesale Club. This park is located north of BJ's. The Soccer Complex is visible from John R, but the playground isn't. Being primarily a soccer complex, there is lots (and I mean plenty!) of free parking. The complex is open to the public for all to enjoy; however, priority does go to scheduled matches. There is a snack bar, but that's only open when there are scheduled events. On the backside of the snack bar is a small sheltered pavilion overlooking the playground.
From the parking lot, the playground does not appear to be very large; however, it you take a walk through it, it's bigger than it appears from your car. There is also an area for athletes to warm up or train (pull ups, inclined sit ups or push ups). The park also has all the elements of a typical playground; swings, slides, monkey bars, hanging wheels (roundabouts, not merry-go-rounds), rope cargo net, balance chain and bongo bridge climbers, and the list goes on. This park is rated for kids 5-12 years old, but there is a small play structure suitable for those under 5 (see pics).
The playground is never busy (at least not when we come), probably because not many are aware of it, and I really think it's one of the better ones in Madison Heights. The venue is nice and compact. Parking is literally steps away, and there's a sheltered pavilion for parents to sit and watch over their kids. If you have young'uns and you're in the area, you need to check it out! 5 stars.
For now, you can check out my pics!
Ooops, almost forgot to talk about COVID. Here are the particulars:
They do not have modified hours
Masks are required per MI DHHS Emergency Order when social distancing can't be maintained
They do not provide masks
They do not provide hand sanitizer
Restrooms are open from 10:00 to dusk
Playground is NOT sanitized daily
Social distancing signs posted
Pavilion has large metal picnic tables which are not sanitized daily
If you would like to experience more, come dine-with-me.yelp.com I'd love to have your company... Bon Appétit!