Santa Rosa is a nice little town on Rte 66, known for the many natural springs and lakes offering a refreshing splash of moisture to an otherwise parched landscape. The lake and playground are rustic and vintage, but still offer kids many options for exploration and activity.
The playground is shaded by a few trees and consists of a random assortment of smaller playstructures, each from a different decade. There's an odd slide that looks like it's from the 60's, a classic turntable spinner and climbing structure from the 70's, swings and a newer model slide/ climbing structure.
A short walk away is the town lake, which serves as a pool in summer complete with big slide.
It was May when we were here, so we just dipped our toes in. Since the lake is spring fed, the water looked clean and clear. My kids loved the runoff channel that goes from the lake downhill to a small stream, which created the perfect opportunity for leaf and twig races. Lots of big lovely trees and a few trails that led to yet another small lake. Public bathrooms were typical no frills but pretty clean.
Since this is part of my Cross Country Tour of playgrounds, I will add that this park is pretty close to a highway exit. There are signs,but they are small and easy to miss, so be watching!
If you stop in Santa Rosa, make sure you also visit the Blue Hole! read more