Sacramento area parks blog

leaving

2009-08-19T21:12:00.000-07:00

Hi. I just wanted to let you all know I moved out of the Sacramento area so I no longer will be posting about parks in the area. Hope you enjoy your visit to these parks though.

I actually moved to the Ventura County in CA and started a blog there about parks...venturacountyparks.blogspot.com

Hidden Falls Regional Park

2009-01-17T21:20:00.000-08:00

Hidden Falls Regional Park in Auburn, CA

Directions: I-80 to I-49 in Auburn. Click on the link at the bottom of this post.

Hidden Falls Hikes are great for all family members. They have many trials to chose from: easy to difficult and even an ADA paved trail (great for little ones on their bikes and scooters). We went on the Poppy Trail with a 3 1/2 year old and a 10 month in a backpack, and made the entire 1.7 miles in about 1 1/2 hrs with pit stops along the way. Mid point is a bridge we went under and watched the water, going back we went to a small waterfall. Beautiful scenery all over as well as rocks, twigs and leaves to pick up for the little ones. Go to this site and click on the location map and the map of the trails and choose your destination.

Free theatre plays

2008-10-10T21:42:00.001-07:00

I just found out you can see many plays for free. Just go here and sign up, and they are giving away some interesting theatre tickets for free to enhance going to see the arts in your community.

I found this out because the Sacramento City College is putting on "Goldilocks and the Three Bears" play for children. It sounds like fun for kids who are at the age they can sit through a short play and see some cute costumes. This play is $5 for kids 3 and older (free for kids 2 and under), but tomorow (oct. 11th) it is opening day, so it is half off. For more info call go here.

Free Fairytale town day

2008-09-23T22:24:00.000-07:00

I just read that Fairytale Town is free this Saturday Oct. 11th for children ages 0-5 and their parents. It is a First 5 Children's Celebration. There will be lots of larger than life cartoon characters walking around. Free snacks, wealth of information and lots of fun things to see.

It will be from 10am-4pm. There are also many events you can see at sacramentoparent.com. they have harvest festivals and shows galore.

Ancil Hoffman Park/ Effie Yeaw Nature Center!

2008-09-23T21:28:00.000-07:00

This park is located in Carmichael off of Fair Oaks Blvd. Go to this link for good directions (depending on where you live there are many ways to get there: www.effieyeaw.org and click on directions/map on the left sidebar. Or for the Ancil Hoffman park information click here.

Ancil Hoffman Park is $4 to get in during business hours. You can golf, hike, or just have a picnic. Once you wind around past the golf course there will be parking directions to get to the Effie Yeaw Nature Center. There are many nice trails and a trail that goes and you can see the old indian pots, writing and a teepee.

The Effie Yeaw Nature Center, in Ancil Hoffman Park, is an award-winning environmental and cultural education center within the American River Parkway. The center offers a wide variety of hands-on educational activities and exhibits for all ages. This center is free! It has so many cool exhibits. They have a "tree house" you can climb up and read books and look over the museum. It has some animals inside as well, an owl, snakes, lizards, etc. So neat!!

Trails - Walk quietly along the nature trails winding through the Effie Yeaw Nature Center and one may see a herd of deer or listen to the chirps and chatter of over 100 bird species.

Golf- Golf Digest has named Ancil Hoffman Golf Course one of America's top 75 courses. Shady even in the summer, the course also houses a spacious clubhouse, a restaurant, and a trophy room.

Picnic - Enjoy a picnic with friends and family. This picnic area is operated on a first-come, first served basis. To protect wildlife and others, glass containers are not allowed in County Parks. Dogs are required to be on leashes throughout the park and may not enter the Nature Center.

Worth the drive, money and time!

Effie Yeaw Nature Center

2008-09-23T21:25:00.000-07:00

Here are pictures of the Nature Center which is free with $4 parking for the Ancil Hoffman entrance...but when I went on a weekday no one was at the front gate, so it was free to go in...maybe you just have to pay on the weekends?.

Free Swimming Days

2008-07-30T21:46:00.000-07:00

This is almost over..my bad...but there are free swim days every Monday and Wednesday evenings from 6:45pm to 8:15pm. It is located at Johnson Pool-Vernon and D street in downtown Roseville. It goes until August 6th.

From I-15 take Riverside Exit. Continue on Riverside until the end and then turn left on Vernon Street. Turn left on D Street the pool is on the corner.

Yep totally free. Come swim. They cap it around 120 people, but lately they haven't reached capacity. They have two slides to go down in the deep end. Lifeguards monitoring all over the pool. They have a one foot section that is great for little kids to walk around in. They also have a 2, 3, 6, and 10 foot sections all roped off. Fun for all!

Whitney Oaks Park

2008-07-07T14:49:00.000-07:00

Wildcat Blvd. & Whitney Ranch Parkway in Rocklin, CA.
Off the I-65.Blue Oaks exit. Turn east. Turn left on Sunset. Right on W. Stanford Ranch Rd. Left on Wildcat. Right on Whitney Ranch Pkwy. Make a U-Turn where you can, after you see the park.

This is a fun park, kind of out of the way, but not very crowded so it is worth the drive. It has fun water features that dump and spray! The playground is HUGE! This is the biggest and tallest playground I have ever seen at a park. The big kid playground is three stories in some spots. The slides come down from that high. It has lots of paths around and plenty of things to walk on and run around. It has a cute small kid playground with horses to ride, swings, and plenty to climb on and slide down. It has many benches that are covered and you can reserve the BBQ areas as well. Fun for all ages.

Here is a link about the park on the parks and recreation website: click here.

Lone Tree Park

2008-07-05T18:36:00.000-07:00

West Oaks Blvd. and Lone Tree Blvd, Rocklin, CA

From I-65 take the Blue Oaks exit. Turn left on Lone Tree. The park will be on the right behind the softball fields. Parking is a little bit away from the playground. I am thinking they are adding on to it? If you have a four wheeler you can park on the dirt right next to the playground. But we all need some exercise. :)

This park has three baseball fields, a soccer field, bathrooms, a fun playground with tall slides and fun ladders and a cool swing teeter totter thing. The best of all it has water features galore! It has many great sprinklers to run through and fun squirt gun horses to spray at others who want to get wet. Here is a link to the Rocklin parks and rec. page about the park as well:http://www.rocklin.ca.gov/government/service_n_facility/parks_n_facilities/parks/community_parks/lone_tree_park.asp

This is a popular park when its hot outside! Fun for all.

Weber Park

2008-05-05T21:27:00.000-07:00

Take the Riverside Exit in Roseville. Stay on Riverside until the end and turn right on Vernon. Right on Grant. Left on Oak and Left on Washington. Left on Main Street. Left on Berkely and Right on Circuit.

This is a hidden park. It is downtown slightly so all types of people come here. There are two playground areas with small and big kid swings. It has a great open space for soccer or frisbee or what sport you choose. There is a basketball court as well. It is out of the way of the busy street so it is safe in that regards. Happy park day.

Twinwood Park

2008-05-05T21:24:00.000-07:00

Take the Pleasant Grove exit off I-65 in Roseville. Take a U-turn at the Gold Coast Dr. signal. Turn right at Pioneer Dr. Left on Ranch Red Rd. and left on Twinwood Loop. The park is pushed up against the wall next to Pleasant Grove.

This is a very hidden neighborhood park. It is very quiet and secluded. It has a playground and open grass field for great picnics. If you can find it you will have a great time, just bring along friends to have a better time.

Sylvia Besana Park

2008-05-05T21:22:00.001-07:00

Off I-65 in Roseville take the Pleasant Grove exit. Make a U-turn at the Gold Coast Dr signal. Turn right at Pioneer Rd. Turn left on Trehowell Dr. Turn right into the parking lot past the park on the right.

This park is cute. It has a covered playground structure. The structure has a climbing wall and slides and ramps. It has a covered picnic table area. It has big and small swings. Lots of open space here to run around and get some energy out.

Vencil Brown Park

2008-05-05T21:19:00.000-07:00

Off the I-65 in Roseville take the Pleasant Grove exit. Turn right on Roseville Pkwy. Turn left on Trestle. The park will be on the left.

This park is a baseball field and open space for soccer and running around. There is no playground here. It is good for frisbee games or just for a picnic outing.

Buljan Park

2008-05-05T21:17:00.000-07:00

Off -65 in Roseville take the Pleasant Grove exit. Turn west. Turn right on Hallissy Dr. the park will be on the left.

This park has many baseball fields. It has a cute playground with swings and slides. The only downfall is there is no parking near the playground area. You have to park at the school adjacent to the baseball fields and walk a few hundred feet with your toddlers and kids in tow to enjoy the playground area.

H. C. Elliot Park

2008-05-05T21:14:00.000-07:00

Off I-65 in Roseville, take the Pleasant Grove exit. Turn west. Turn left onto Woodcreek Oaks Blvd. Turn right onto Junction. Turn left onto Cushendall. The park will be up the street. Park in the parking lot.

This is a great neighborhood park. It is always busy with people coming and going all the time. It has a baseball field, great open space for soccer, a basketball court and a covered BBQ area with picnic tables. It has two playground areas and big and small kid swings. There is plenty to do at this park, and you might meet some friends while you are here as well.

Rube Nelson Park!

2008-05-05T21:12:00.000-07:00

Off I-65 take Pleasant Grove exit. Turn west. Turn left onto Foothills Blvd. Turn left onto South Bluff Dr. The park will be up the street on the right side.

This is a cute small neighborhood park. It has big and small swings, slides, and a very cute frog that sprays water in the hot months. It has a trail connecting to it that goes by the train tracks for a short hike. It is a cute, quiet park. Here is a link to the City of Roseville's website about the park as well:http://www.roseville.ca.us/parks/parks_n_facilities/parks_in_roseville/all_parks/r_f_(rube)_nelson_park.asp

Mahany Park

2008-05-05T21:08:00.000-07:00

Off I-65 in Roseville. Take the Pleasant Grove Exit. Turn west. Continue on Pleasant Grove until you pass Woodcreek Oaks Blvd. Turn left into the park on the left side.

This is a big park. It has a very new sleek library with storytime on Wednesdays at 10:30 and 11:00. It has a Sports Club where you can workout, take classes or have your kids take classes. The park itself has soccer fields, baseball fields and plenty of parking. They are in the making of an all accessible playground. It will be completed next year I believe.
There is a swimming facility located here as well. The entrance to that is on Woodcreek Oaks Blvd.
Lots to do at this park.

Misty Wood Park!

2008-05-05T21:03:00.000-07:00

Roseville, CA

Off I-65 take the Pleasant Grove exit. Turn west. Turn right onto Misty Wood Drive. It is the first right after the Foothills signal. The park will be on the left side. Park on the street.

This is a great park. It is far enough away from the street you don't have worry about kids running in the street. It has a very cute boat structure kids can play on along with slides, ramps and small and big kid swings. There are plenty of picnic benches in the shade, BBQ area and lots of great open grass fields to play soccer. It even has a circle basketball court. The bonus is a hiking trail along the open space that goes along the creek behind houses. It makes a great hiking outing for toddlers and young kids.

Downtown Roseville Library

2007-11-27T14:17:00.000-08:00

225 Taylor Street
Roseville, CA

Directions: From I-80 take the Riverside/Auburn exit. Follow the Riverside Drive signs. Go a few miles on Riverside Drive until it dead ends. Turn right onto Vernon Street. Turn right on Taylor Street. The library will be on the left side almost to the end of the street. Parking is straight ahead or to the left behind the library.

The library has story time for 2-3 year olds and 3-5 year olds. They have a separate story time room, and when its not in use they have a few toys you can have your child play with. Call the Roseville Parks and Recreation Dept or library to sign up and to verify times and hours, usually on Tuesdays or Thursdays at 10:30 and 11:15am. Library phone: (916) 774-5221. This library has a very unique and cool design. It is in a the shape of a hexagon I think. Inside has tall pillers in the center and many beams going across the ceilings. It makes for a great conversation piece. Art exhibits are showcased here every 3rd Saturday, call for more info. Outside you can take a bridge across to Royer Park and enjoy the playground equipment and have your child release some energy and have fun! See Royer Park blog for information on that park. Or walk around downtown Roseville past the trains for another fun and interesting outing.

Bill Santucci Park

2007-11-27T13:57:00.000-08:00

1831 Mornignstar Drive
Roseville, CA

Directions: From I-80 take the Riverside/Auburn Exit. Follow the Riverside Drive signs. Turn left on Cirby. Right on Foothills. Left on Baseline. Right on Junction. Left on Stonecrest and right on Morningstar Drive.

This park is next to an elementary school within a neighborhood. It has a large soccer field, basketball area, picnic areas, and bathrooms. It also has a newer playground with climbing ropes, funky slides and places to show off your balancing and climbing skills. There is a playground with slides, ladders and platforms as well. They have big and small kid swings as well. It is a tan bark park here. There is lots of room to run around at this newer park. The Roseville Parks and Recreation Dept. has many tot sport events here. Get their catalog and come out and have fun with your toddler.

James A. Hall Park

2007-11-27T13:52:00.000-08:00

1411 Raeburn Way/ Country Club Drive
Roseville, CA

Directions: From I-80 take the Riverside/Auburn Exit. Follow the Riverside Drive signs. Turn left on Cirby. Right on Foothills. Left on Baseline. Right on Country Club Drive and Left on Raeburn. Parking is on the street around the park.

This is truly a neighborhood park, it is surrounded by homes in a quiet neighborhood. It has many picnic tables, grass area, and walking trails. It has big and small kid swings, big kid playground with a climbing wall and TALL slides that will get the dare devil kid excited! The small kid playground has slides, steering wheels and ladders to climb on. There are no bathrooms or sand area, it is tan bark here. Bring your scooters there is paved trails around the park.

James W. Wanish Park!

2007-11-27T13:47:00.000-08:00

1351 Junction Blvd.
Roseville, CA

Directions: From I-80 take the Riverside/Auburn Exit. Follow the Riverside signs, it will take you under the bridge and onto Riverside drive. Turn left on Cirby. Right on Foothills. Left on Junction. The parking lot will be on the left past the Americana Drive traffic light.

This neighborhood/school park is great for all ages. It has a cool sand area with a playground and a pipe tube area where kids will spend hours pouring sand into and seeing it come out and pile up. There is a big kid play area with slides, bridges, and tunnels. Big and small kid swings are here. There is a baseball field, soccer field, bathrooms and a BBQ area.

Duck pond!

2007-11-27T13:37:00.001-08:00

Duck pond in Citrus Heights, CA

There is a cute duck pond in a senior mobile home community. You need to be respectful of the people living there when you come view the ducks.

Directions: From I-80 take Greenback exit. Turn left on Auburn. Left on Van Maren and left on Oak Lakes Lane (after RiteAid). Follow the street through the mobile home kiosk gate. Follow the signs to the Office, right on Summerset. Go past the office and turn left Cove Lane. The lake will be on the left side.

This is a cute pond where you can feed the ducks. The lake is dyed a bright shade of blue which makes it feel tropical. Take a stroll on the trail around the lake and be at peace. Be respectful of the neighbors and neighborhood. It is a good outing for kids.

Del Campo Park

2007-10-15T12:38:00.000-07:00

This park is in Carmichael, CA
Directions: Off I-80 take the Greenback Exit. Turn right onto Dewey Dr. Go a few miles and take the first right after Del Campo High School, it is Moraga Dr. Then take a right at Jan Dr. Then a right at Crestview Dr. and then a right at Healthcliff Dr. Go through the gate at the end of the street and the parking lot will be inside the gate. The playground is across the grass.

This is a large neighborhood park. It has lots and lots of grass to run around and play on. Lots of peaceful walking trails that meander through the park and over the creek. The playground is cute with swings, a climbing wall, slides, and shade. It has bathroom facilities, benches, and places to BBQ. You will probably find many other things to do as you explore this quiet park.

Nut Tree

2007-09-22T21:43:00.000-07:00

Nut Tree in Vacaville, CA
About 1/2 hour drive from Sacramento.
Directions:The park is conveniently located on I-80 in Vacaville, California between San Francisco and Sacramento.
From the west, take the Nut Tree Parkway exit. From the east, take the East Monte Vista Avenue exit.
Hours: 10am -6pm usually. Go to www. nuttreeusa.com for more information.

The Nut Tree is a place to go for all. It is has factory outlet stores, resturants, and box stores. It has the Nut Tree Family Park, Bocce park, and Nut Tree Village to name a few in the area.

The Nut Tree Family Park is a toned down fair. It has tickets to purchase and each ride is so many tickets. They have a carosel, a rollercoaster, and the great train ride that goes around the park. This is great for all ages. They have rides for all the ages. They have some free rides to, like the horse ride. It is a nice day trip to stroll around the park on a nice day and stop in some shops and dining for dinner. You can also have a kids birthday party here.

Jelly Belly Factory

2007-09-22T21:37:00.001-07:00

Jelly Belly Factory
1 Jelly Belly Lane
Fairfield, CA
Directions:
From Sacramento & Vacaville:
1. Head West on I-80.
2. Take the Highway 12/Abernathy Rd. exit in Fairfield.
3. Turn left at stop sign onto Abernathy Rd.
4. Continue straight through one stop sign and four stoplights.
5. Turn left at the fifth stoplight onto Courage Dr.
6. Turn left onto North Watney Way.
7. Turn left onto Jelly Belly Lane.
Approximate driving time from Sacramento is one hour.
Hours:9am to 4pm. Go to www.jellybelly.com and click on free tours for more information about the factory and the tours.

The Jelly Belly Factory tour is a cute tour. They make you wear white 'sailor' type hats on the tour and walk you around while you watch the workers making jelly belly's. They show video clip of the history, the process of the beans, and the packaging. You get a free pack of jellybelly beans at the end of the tour. You can then walk around the gift shop and stop by the tasting section and try out your favorite jelly bean or be brave and try the Harry Potter beans. And don't forget to take your picture with the fun loving jelly belly bean out front or inside.

Tempo Park

2007-08-17T14:13:00.000-07:00

Directions: Off I-80N take Greenback Exit. Turn left on Fair Oaks Blvd. Turn left into Tempo Park.

This 24.9 acre park has a cute playground area, a large BBQ area, tennis courts, bathrooms, and trails that wind around the tree filled open space. This is a great park for big family or friends parties. This park also connects to Tempo community pool. You walk along the trail to get to the pool. The pool is open usually from Memorial day to Labor day.

California State Railroad Museum

2007-08-17T14:05:00.000-07:00

Directions:The California State Railroad Museum is located at the corner of Second and "I" Streets in Old Sacramento. Scroll down to "Additional Information" for directions to reach the Museum by automobile and via Amtrak.
Parking:A small number of limited term, metered parking spaces are available on the streets of Old Sacramento. However, these spaces are not suitable for guests visiting longer then 90 minutes. All-day parking is available in the large public garage at the I Street entrance to Old Sacramento, for a nominal fee.
Hours:The Museum is open daily (except Thanksgiving, Christmas and New Year's Day) from 10 a.m to 5 p.m.
Admission: $8 adults; $3 youths ages 6-17; children ages 5 and under are free.
See: www.californiastaterailroadmuseum.org for more information.

The California State Railroad Museum is perfect for all those train enthusiasts! It has a "roundhouse" of real trains you can go inside and see the old fashioned sleeping quarters, dinning cart, and lounge areas. Many volunteers will gladly tell you about the history of each train and exhibit. Upstairs is a toy train gallery and a children's play area with toy trains kids can play with and won't want to leave. Next to the play area is a walkway with a train. It is pretty impressive the way the building holds up this huge train. You can look down and see the "roundhouse" of the trains below. Outside conductors give train rides.
Once you made it this far don't forget to walk around old town Sacramento and grab a bit to eat at one of the many cute places there.

Folsom Lake

2007-08-17T13:57:00.000-07:00

Directions: Off I-80N Take Douglas Blvd east. Follow Douglas Blvd until it dead ends to the park ranger station. Pay $7.00 daily fee and go straight until you see the signs for Granite Beach. This is a good beach spot. If you want to load your boat, hike or walk around ask the ranger for a map and they will direct you.
See this website for hours, hikes and information:
http://www.parks.ca.gov/?page_id=500

Granite Beach is a fun spot for kids and families. It has plenty of sandy area to sit and relax. The sand isn't as sandy as beaches so it is nice to sit and not get too muddy going in and out of the water. The water is shallow in the beginning, and hardly no wakes from the boats. Lots of birds come by and say hi. It is a great way to cool down during the hot summer months. It has bathrooms near, along with a snack bar that opens during certain months of the summer.

California State Capitol

2007-08-17T13:39:00.000-07:00

10th and L Streets Sacramento, CA 95814
Directions: Off I-80 Capital City Freeway exit J Street. Turn on 29th Street and then L St. Park anywhere you see parking in garages or street vending. From I-80 N exit N Street. Turn on 30th Street and park near L Street.

You can walk through the building for free during bulding hours: Weekdays: 8 - 5 Weekends: 9 - 5
Admission: Free
Tours daily from:9:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. Call for more info: (916) 324-0333
See this website for more info:http://www.capitolmuseum.ca.gov/

The State Capitol building is hard to miss. It is a wonderful sight and an awe inspiring piece of architecture. Once you go through security you can walk around and see the different shadow boxes of each county in California, find your favorite Senator's office door, or walk by the enormous door of the Governor himself, Arnold! It is a huge door. If you are lucky you might see him in the building. You can walk in the rotunda and hear your echo. The museums throughout the first floor and basement are neat to look and see the history of Sacramento and California.
Outside on the large lawns are beautiful trees in the spring and lots of great shade for a picnic lunch.

Folsom Park

2007-08-17T13:35:00.000-07:00

Directiosn: Next to the Folsom City Zoo. See that entry for directions.

This park has two great playgrounds for older kids and younger ones. Lots of slides, swings, shade, and open space. There is horseshoes, picnic and BBQ benches, baseball and soccer fields. Lots of parking too. I am a little weary of the signs that say to watch out for snakes but other than that it seems like a nice family friendly park.

Folsom Zoo & Folsom Valley Train Ride

2007-08-17T13:22:00.000-07:00

Folsom City Zoo
Directions: 403 Stafford Street, Folsom, Calif. From Hwy 50: Exit at Folsom Blvd. Turn left at the off ramp intersection. Follow for 3 miles and take Right turn on Natoma Street traffic light. Follow for about 1 mile, turn left at the traffic light onto Stafford Street and turn right into the entrance past the library which leads into the parking lot.
The Folsom City Zoo Sanctuary is open from Tuesday through Sundays 10am - 4pm. Closed on Mondays, unless it is a major holiday. Hours are subject to change. Please call (916) 351-3527 to verify hours.
Children 4 and under Free. Children 5-12 $3.00. Youths 13-17 $4.00. Adults 18-54 $4.00. Seniors 55 and over $3.00.

The first Tuesday of every month, admission to the Zoo is half price!

Operating since 1963, the zoo has been the home to hundreds of animals from squirrels and chickens to tigers and bears. Each year the zoo welcomes thousands of visitors in a simple and unassuming park like environment. With close to 100 animals your family is sure to enjoy it. You will find an animal your little child will surely enjoy. The monkeys are funny, the owl is cool, and the peacocks and roosters and chickens run wild so that is a delight. Most of the animals are behind wire fences, so you can't see them as well as other zoos. It is a small zoo so its easy to walk around and see everything within an hour or two. Lots of shady spots and benches to rest.

Outside the zoo is a Railway Train Ride you definitely need to ride. It is $1.00 for kids over one. $2.00 for anyone over three I think. It goes along the track next to the library and the zoo. It is great fun for the train enthusiast.

Tupelo Park

2007-06-14T21:29:00.000-07:00

Tupelo Park in Antelope/Citrus Heights area.
Take the Greenback/Elkhorn Exit. Go on Elkhorn Blvd. Then turn on Roseville Road. Then turn on Tupelo Dr. The park will be up the road on the left.

This 8.9 acre park is a neighborhood park indeed. It is very quiet and lots of room to run around. It has two playgrounds with swings, slides and bridges galore. It has many benches, picnic tables and a huge grass field perfect for soccer. There are no bathroom facilities. It also doesn't have much shade yet, the trees are young. This is good on a colder day.

Bertha Henschel Park!

2007-04-24T21:47:00.000-07:00

Located on 45th Street between A and B streets in Sacramento. Take the I-80 Capital City Fwy. Take the E Street exit. Follow E Street (it will change to Mckinley Blvd) and turn right on Meister Wy and then turn right on Aiken Way. It will dead into the park. Parking is on the street.

This is a wonderful and popular neighborhood park. It is a little out of the way and hard to find, if you weren’t looking for it but it is well worth your trip. The playground is very cute with lots of slides and a great roller slide (with 43 rolling dowels) that gives you a massage if you want it or not. There are big and small kid swings, along with a chair swing (very comfy), and a tire swing. There is a sand area as well. The best and most popular feature (during the summer of course) is the wading pool with a mushroom fountain! The wading pool is 12 inches, and has a gate around it. There are bathroom facilities, basketball courts, benches, and lots of grassy open space.

Orangevale Park

2007-04-24T21:45:00.000-07:00

Orangevale, CA
This huge park takes up the whole block of Hazel Ave and Oak Ave and Filbert Ave and around. Off Greenback turn left onto Hazel Ave. Turn right on Oak Ave. and the parking lot for the playground will be on the right. For other hikes and Frisbee golf the parking lot will be on Hazel Ave. before Oak Ave, as well as one past the playground on Filbert Ave.

Orangevale Park is a huge park that includes many hidden amenities and open space. It has a cute playground with a small kid playground as well as a BIG kid playground. The big kid playground has really tall slides, the most daring will enjoy this. There is a covered BBQ area next to the playground. The bathroom facilities are across the grassy open field. Lots of shade trees for sure. This park is also known for its 18-hole Frisbee golf course, the only one around. While you try to find the markers have a peaceful and relaxing time as you meander through the woods along the trails.

Old Salmon Falls Loop Hiking Trail

2007-04-24T21:42:00.000-07:00

El Dorado Hills/Folsom, CA
Drive east on Green Valley Rd for 2.9 miles. Turn left (north) on Salmon Falls Rd, and drive 2.9 miles to turnout on left marked at Falcon Crest. The parking lot is there Then walk down the paved road to another parking lot, or park there but it is a $2 fee. The trailhead starts at the end of the parking lot.

At the end of the parking lot is the trailhead to many hikes with different mileage. This Old Salmon Falls Loop is the shortest one. This is an excellent easy hike. The views are gorgeous! Along the way you will pass through a new pine forest, planted in 1972. At the 1.4 mile mark, you will reach a trail junction, and the site of an extinct waterfall, Salmon Falls, which was destroyed when the Folsom Dam was built in the 1950’s. This is a great spot to stop and picnic. Follow the signs to the Monte Vista Trailhead to return the loop to the parking lot. The last 0.8 miles climbs up to a tremendous vista where there is a drinking fountain, with drinkable water, and picnic tables.
After the hike, take time to explore the Old Salmon Falls town site, at the lower parking lot. This was an old Mormon gold mining town, which is now underwater because of the Folsom Dam. This hike is very peaceful, relaxing, and has a few up and downs to give you a slight workout while enjoying nature.

Cresthaven Park

2007-03-07T12:00:00.002-08:00

Roseville, CA
On I-80 take the Riverside Ave/Auburn Blvd Exit. Turn northwest on to Riverside Ave. Turn left on Cirby Way and then turn left on Vernon Street. Once on Vernon turn Community Dr. The park will be on the right side.

This is a wonderful neighborhood park with many amenities. It has great tennis courts, large open space for soccer, baseball fields, basketball courts, horseshoe pits, and even bathroom facilities! There is a great covered BBQ area with benches. The playground is very cute. It has slides, ramps, and both types of swings. Lots of shade for those hot summer mornings make this a wonderful park.

Westwood Park

2007-03-07T12:00:00.001-08:00

Citrus Heights, CA
On I-80 take the Antelope Rd exit. Go west and make the first right on Lichen Dr. Follow the street around and it changes to Butternut. Don’t turn left on Lichen. The park will be on the right side. Park along the street for the playground, or there is a parking lot next to the baseball area.

This cute 11-acre neighborhood fish themed park is great for all ages. It has basketball courts, a baseball area, two tennis courts, and a great BBQ area. It also has bathroom facilities. There are two playground areas. The smaller one has fish stairs that are really cute. There are two types of swings, a great sand area, great open spaces, and nice paved walking areas.

Crestmont Park

2007-03-07T11:57:00.000-08:00

Roseville, CA
On I-80 take the Douglas Blvd exit. Turn east onto Douglas Blvd. Go a few miles and turn right on Rocky Ridge drive. At the end of the street there will be a T, and a signal, turn left on S. Cirby Way. Go a mile or so and turn right on Champion Oaks Dr. The park will be on the right side a little ways down the street.

This is a great park for all ages. It has two playgrounds, but they are far apart from each other. The smaller kid playround has a ramp to go up and wood stairs to go down. It is a pirate theme. A cute pirate map is on the ground and you can follow the lines to lead to the X. An elementary school is in sight and a paved path leads to the basketball courts and baseball fields there. There is a nice covered BBQ area with bathroom facilities nearby. The bigger kid playground is on the other side of the BBQ area. This playground has swings for bigger kids only. It has a cute solar system theme. It has bumpy slides and cute ramps and places to spin the planets. It has great shade for the summer.

Twin Oaks Park

2007-03-07T11:56:00.000-08:00

Rocklin, CA
Take I-80 to Hwy 65. On Hwy 65 take the Pleasant Grove/Park Dr exit. Turn right, north, on Pleasant Grove, it turns into Park Dr. On Park Dr go a few miles and Twin Oaks Park will be on the left side. There is a parking lot.

This is a nice park for soccer games. It has a great playground to have kids play on while the other child is playing soccer. There are two playgrounds with great slides and ramps. Lots of swings and areas to play in the dirt as well. A nice walking trail meanders around. There is a school next to this park.

Sonara Park

2007-03-07T11:54:00.002-08:00

Rocklin, CA
Take I-80 to Hwy 65 toward Roseville. On Hwy 65 take the Blue Oaks exit. Turn north, right if you came from I-80. Go a mile or less and turn right at Sonara Pass and it will wind around. Park anywhere along the street.

This is a cute neighborhood park. It has plenty of soccer fields that are busy during the soccer season. An elementary school is nearby. This is in a newer neighborhood so the playground is in good shape. There are two playground areas with slides, ramps and things to play on. They have both types of swings as well as sand areas to roam through. A great shaded BBQ area with plenty of benches is nearby. A nice paved walking trail meanders around the park as well and leads to open space that isn’t developed yet. You can see for miles and miles when you walk around.

Countryside Park

2007-03-07T11:54:00.001-08:00

Rancho Cordova, CA
Take the Mather Field exit off I-80 in Rancho Cordova. Go east and turn right on Rockingham Dr. Keep on the street and the park will be at the end of the street. Parking is on the street.

This is a cute neighborhood park. The playground is really high so the slides are really cool to slide down. It has swings as well. It has some open space to play soccer or Frisbee. There is an elementary school next to the park. There are no bathroom facilities here.

Garbolino Park!

2007-03-07T11:51:00.000-08:00

1015 Camelia Ave
Roseville, CA
Take the Douglas Exit off I-80. Go west toward the railroad. Turn left at Keehner Ave. Turn left at Camelia Ave. It will lead you to the park. Park anywhere along the street.

This is a cute neighborhood park. It has a cute playground to climb around and slide down. It has both kinds of swings. A wonderful sand area is nearby with a truck to play on. There is a basketball court, BBQ area with tables, and a wonderful flat open space for all kinds of sports. There is also a paved walking trail that goes around the perimeter of the park. This is a neat park because it is small enough and flat enough that you can see everything that is going on, so you can keep track of all your kids, but it is big enough to enough the space. No bathroom facilities.

Quarry Park/Memorial Park!

2007-03-07T11:50:00.000-08:00

Rocklin, CA
Take the Rocklin Rd exit off I-80. Go west toward the railroad. Before the railroad you will see the fire station and city hall to the left, turn in the parking lot to the left and the memorial park will be there. Park at the end of the park, there will be assigned parking spaces.

Quarry park has water features! This is a very cute playground. It is probably crowded during those hot days, but it has plenty of benches with covered canopies of different colors, and lot of grass space to spread out your towels. There is a snake that sprays up water, an umbrella water spray, and lots of water sprays from the ground. The playground itself is very cute. It has slides, tunnels, and swings of both kinds. And don’t forget to try out the red seat next to the swings, it spins! There is also a sand area so bring your shovels and pails. This is a great park for all ages.

Sunrise Mall Playground

2007-03-07T11:49:00.000-08:00

Citrus Heights, CA
Take the Greenback Exit off I-80 and go east for 4 miles or more. The mall will be on the northeast corner of Sunrise and Greenback. The kids play place is in the center of the mall.

The Sunrise Mall play place is a very popular place for kids to come during the rain! This is a very cute play place. It has a outdoor nature theme. The slide has a raccoon on the top with wood like steps. There are hollowed out trees for tunnels with worms over the top. Lots of mushrooms to jump or sit on as well as a cute ladybug structure to climb on. The mall also has a Kids Club every first Saturday of the month. Ask about it at customer service.

Galleria Mall Playground

2007-03-07T11:48:00.000-08:00

Roseville, CA
Going on I-80 take Hwy 65 exit. On Hwy 65 take the first exit, Galleria Pkwy exit. Follow the signs to the mall, it will be on the right side. The kids play place is outside the mall, it covered with a canopy.

The Galleria Mall kids play place is a great place for kids. It has slides, tunnels, and pieces of equipment to climb. It was outside, but they remodeled and got a new place and new equipment inside. It is really cute. The equipment (slide, climbing stuff) is made to look like tools, hard hats and other work like things. It is sponsored by Comcast I'm thinking since all the equipment has their logo on it. It has seating all around, with one entrance, so it is very safe. They clean the equipment everyday so they might kick you out for 15 minutes while they do that, but hey it is clean, a good time to go back. It is a good place to have the kids run around if the weather is rainy, cold or really hot outside.

Eugene H Ahner Park!

2007-02-21T13:47:00.000-08:00

Foothill Farms/Citrus Heights area

From I-80 going east toward Reno, take the Greenback Exit. From Greenback going east a mile or less, turn right on Auburn Blvd. Go a few miles, and turn left on Manzanita Ave. Go less than 1 mile, and the park will be on the right. There is a parking lot in front.

Eugene H Amnov park is a great park for all ages. Two playgrounds are great for all ages. They are a perfect size for small kids. There is a cute teeter-totter that kids will love. The basketball courts and tennis courts are perfect for those who want to exercise a bit while their kids play. The open green space is wonderful for soccer events or Frisbee. There are bathrooms close to the playgrounds, two tennis courts, two basketball courts, walking trails, BBQ areas, and a large parking lot.

Foothill Park

2007-02-21T13:45:00.000-08:00

Foothill Farms area.
From I-80 North toward Reno. Take the Greenback/Elkhorn Exit off I-80. Turn left over the freeway, the street changes to Elkhorn. Make the first right turn onto Diablo Dr. The park will be on the right. There is a parking lot on the right.

Foothill Park is a large open space and park. It has 27 acres to explore. It has three playgrounds that are all different. One even has a "piano" kids will like to play. Two playgrounds are by the parking lot, and another playground is by the street before the parking lot. There are swings at all three playgrounds. There is a huge covered BBQ area with lots and lots of benches. The walking trails are nice and peaceful. The recreation offices are located here, as well as at Rusch Park. You can go and get more information on all the parks, amenities, and recreation happenings. There are bathrooms here as well. The trees are sparse around the playgrounds so in the summer you might want to come when it is cooler in the day. This park has two tennis courts, soccer fields, and bathrooms that are close to the BBQ areas.

Park Oaks Park

2007-02-21T13:42:00.000-08:00

Citrus Heights, CA
Take the Greenback Exit. Go east on Greenback 2 miles, and turn right at Parkoaks Dr. Go about ½ mile or so, and the park is on the left hand side. Parking is on the street.

Park Oaks Park is a cute neighborhood park. It has small and big swings, a cute sand area. It has three playgrounds that have tunnels, slides and ramps. The three playgrounds are very close together so it makes it nice to have an adventurous child, but still be able to socialize. This park also has some grassy area perfect for Frisbee or a small soccer game. The creek runs along side the right hand side of the park, it is tempting to those kids who love to explore. It doesn’t have bathroom facilities. It also has two basketball courts, picnic tables, and a volleyball court.

Madera Park

2007-02-21T13:41:00.000-08:00

Citrus Heights, CA
Off I-80 North take the Antelope Rd exit. Stay on Antelope Road and go through the signal of Sunrise Ave. Then make the first left on Wonder Street. The park will be up the street on the right side.

Madera Park is a wonderful, quiet, and large community park. This 16 acre park has many walking trails that curve around the park and connect to residential areas. Many people bring their dogs on leashes and go for walks throughout the day. It is also great for the child who is beginning to learn to ride a bicycle. The tennis courts(2), baseball fields(3), and basketball courts(2) and open space are great for the sports lover. The playground is a great one. It has two playgrounds, one for older and one your younger. It has small and big swings. It has a fence that goes around the playground area, so there are only two ways in and out of the area. It is easy to keep track of your little ones. A large covered BBQ area is nice. There is lots of shade at this park, which is great in the summer. Bathroom facilities are across the parking lot next to the tennis and ball fields.

Brooktree Park

2007-02-21T13:39:00.000-08:00

Citrus Heights, CA
Exit Greenback off I-80. Go East and turn right onto Dewey Ave. (it is Van Maren on the other side of Greenback). On Dewey turn left at Dunmore. Go up the hill a little ways and the park is on the right. Park on the streeet.

Brooktree Park is larger than you can tell. It is 14 acres! The playground is right next to the street. It has a fence around it so the kids can’t run into the street. Two playgrounds are great for all ages. Two types of swings are available. There are four ball fields down the hill from the playgrounds. The bathroom facilities are located there, but are usually locked unless there is a game playing. It also has 2 tennis courts, and picnic tables a little ways down from the playground area. There is lots more open space there as well for the Frisbee lover.

San Juan Park

2007-02-21T13:38:00.000-08:00

Citrus Heights, CA

From the Madison exit off I-80 to Reno, go 5 miles or so. Turn left on Mariposa Avenue. The park will be on the left side along with the parking lot.

San Juan Park is a great neighborhood park. For those who enjoy walking dogs, or strolling along a quiet open space, this is the place for you, it has 15 acres to roam. There are two nice tennis courts in front next to the parking lot, lots of open fields perfect for soccer games, BBQ areas and bathrooms in site. The playground is not right next to the parking lot, but there is a nice path leading to it. It small and big kid swings, slides, and ramps they can play on. Lots of great open space.

Almond Park

2007-02-21T13:34:00.002-08:00

Orangevale, CA

From Greenback going North turn right on Almond Ave. Go 1 mile and the park and parking lot will be on the right side.

This is a huge neighborhood park that is very peaceful. There are lots of beautiful trees that drop leaves in the fall that are perfect for the strolling person who wants to rustle up some noise. There is a great playground for older kids with swings and slides. The smaller playground needs to be updated; it is a little dirty and old. It is good in the summer time since has lots of shade. The trails meander around the beautiful trees and open fields. There are sand volleyball courts, and BBQ areas perfect in the summer.

Kaseberg Park

2007-02-21T13:34:00.001-08:00

Roseville, CA

From I-80 take the Auburn/Riverside Exit. Turn left on Riverside Ave. Turn left on Cirby Way. Turn right on Foothills Blvd. Go 2-3 miles and turn right on Rand Way. The park will be on the right along with the parking lot.

This is a great neighborhood park. It is a very cute park. The open space is wonderfully located next to an elementary school. They put in new playground equipment. It has a tall slide and many ropes and mushroom type things to stand on and climb around. They have big and small kid swings. They have two little seats your not sure what they are, but you put your kid in them and spin them around. Some might not like it, it gets them dizzy, and some kids will laugh non stop. The rock waterfall is turned on in the summer, a great water feature for the hot days. The BBQ area is perfect for large parties. There is a sand volleyball court, horseshoe pit and large grass fields. There are restrooms here as well. Plenty of space to ride bikes around or run around to get out energy!

Hannaford Family Park/Eggloff Family Park

2007-02-21T13:33:00.001-08:00

Folsom, CA

From Douglas Blvd off I-80 go north. Keep on Douglas for many miles and turn right on Folsom-Auburn Blvd. Continue for a few miles and turn right on Folsom Dam Rd. Then turn left on Lakeside Way. The park will be on the right. Park on the street. The Eggloff park will be up Lakeside Dr a ½ mile or less on Hollyann Dr.

Hannaford Family Park is a small park. It has a good full size basketball court, picnic tables, swings, and a cute playground for kids of all ages. A nice walking trail for walking pets. Eggloff Park is nearby and is a cute meandering trail park. It has cute bridges to go over and a peaceful setting you can enjoy while mediating or reading.

Olympus Park

2007-02-21T12:17:00.000-08:00

Roseville, CA
Directions: From I-80 east, Take the Douglas Blvd exit. Go east about 3 miles. Turn left on Roseville Pkwy. Go a ½ mile. Turn right on Olympus Dr. Make the second right on La Croix Dr. and the park will be on the left. Parking is on the street.

This playground park is excellent for younger children. It has two small playgrounds that have slides and ramps that are the right size for smaller kids. There are big and small swings. A great sand area is enjoyable for those little ones who love to get dirty. The bathrooms are near with a drinking fountain. The large grass field is perfect for soccer, as well as the nice ball field. It is located next to a junior high school. There is a great BBQ area as well.

Fairytale Town

2007-02-13T12:06:00.000-08:00

901 Land Park Drive Sacramento. It’s directly across from the Sacramento Zoo.
www.fairytaletown.org
Hours: Nov-Feb. Tues-Saturday 10am-4pm.
March-Oct. Open everyday 9am-4pm.
Fees: Adults and Children 3-12 years: $4.25 weekends. $3.75 weekdays.
Kids 2 and under: Free.
Directions: Take I-80 west. Get on I-5 towards LA. Take I-5 to Sutterville Road. Turn left onto Land Park Drive. Fairytale Town is on your right. The Sacramento Zoo is on the left. Parking is all around both places.

Fairytale Town is a 2.5 acre children’s park that brings fairytales and nursery rhymes to life. It has over 25 colorful sets to give children the opportunity to learn about their favorite stories and to interact with them. There is “The woman who lived in a shoe” slide, “Mother Goose” slide, “Jack and the Beanstalk” slide and tunnels, and “Peter Rabbit” rabbits and garden where you can water the plants with real water. This is a nonprofit organization that helps the children explore and have fun. The cute “Humpty Dumpty” entrance is just the beginning to a delightful afternoon with your children.

Sacramento Zoo

2007-01-12T16:10:00.000-08:00

Sacramento Zoo
3930 West Land Park Drive Sacramento, CA 95822 Phone: (916) 808-5888
www.saczoo.com
Hours: Winter Hours (Nov-Jan):10am-4pm daily. Feb-Oct. 9am-4pm daily.
Fees: Adults $7.50/$8 weekends. Seniors: $6.75/$7.25 weekends. Child 3-12 $5.00/$5.50 weekends. Kids 0-2: Free.
Free days: Feb. 3, 2007, Nov. 23, 2007, Dec. 24, 2007.
Take I-5. Exit Sutterville Road. Go to Land Park Drive. Follow signs to Zoo parking.

The Sacramento Zoo is a great community zoo. It has lots of animals and you can see them all without walking acres and acres. They have chimpanzees, lions, tigers, lemurs, zebras, giraffes, anteaters, kangaroos, and more! Plenty to see. There is a great playground for the kids to play on as well. Great places to eat and a gift stop to buy something for you to remember your trip to the Sacramento zoo!

Maidu Interpretive Center Museum

2007-01-12T16:03:00.000-08:00

Maidu Interpretive Center and Historic Site Museum
1960 Johnson Ranch Drive  Roseville, CA 95661 Phone: (916) 774-5934
website: http://www.roseville.ca.us/parks/parks_n_facilities/facilities/maidu_indian_museum/
Hours: Tuesday - Saturday: 9am - 4pm. Daily Tours: Tuesday-Friday: 10am & Saturdays: 10am & 1:00pm
Fees: $4/Adult, $3.75/Child,$14/Family of Four.
Free Admission on the fourth Saturday of the month (except July & August). Weekday Afternoon Discount:Tues-Fri $2/person 2pm - 4pm.

Take I 80 to Douglas East. East on Douglas to Rocky Ridge. Turn right (south) on Rocky Ridge. Watch for Johnson Ranch Drive sign. Turn left onto Johnson Ranch Drive (no light or stop sign there). If you get to the Maidu Community Center signal you went one street to far, make a turn around in the community center parking lot and go back one street. The Maidu Interpretive Center is the next building past the Maidu Elementary School.

The Maidu Interpretive Center and Historic Site has a great nature area that offers a loop trail that takes you past ancient petroglyphs (rock art) and hundreds of bedrock mortars (acorn grinding holes). It shows evidence of the Nisenan (southern Maidu) living there for thousands of years. Inside the museum you'll see exhibits portraying the Maidu way of life, rocks, food, and clothing from that time. Taking the tours brings a new light into the way the Maidu lived and what they ate (very healthy). There is also a great biking/walking trail that goes outside of the Maidu Center around by the elementary school.

Space & Science Center Museum

2006-12-20T13:55:00.000-08:00

Space & Science Center
3615 Auburn Blvd
Sacramento, CA 95821
(916) 575-3941 www.thediscovery.org

Take the I-80 Fwy (NOT the Capital City Fwy). Exit Watt Ave. Go south over the I-80 Capital City Fwy. Turn left on Auburn Blvd. The Space & Science Discovery Museum will be on your left a 1/2 mile or less.

Hours: 10-5pm most days depending on the season. Call to verify. $5 adult, $4 teens/seniors, $3 kids 4-12. Free 3 and under.

This Discovery Museum is home to Sacramento's only public planetarium. You can see the stars every weekend at 1:00 and 3:00pm. They also have animal shows, and free kids crafts every weekend. Every year is a different interactive theme. This year is Bone Zone and Tree Life, the animals that live in them. See the Dr's office to see bones, and learn about skeletons and your body. See the kitchen and fake food to learn what to eat to stay healthy. This museum also has the Challenger Learning Center where you can come with your school, birthday party or office to learn to succeed. Go outside along the trails and learn about trees, habitats and the outdoor ampitheatre. It is great fun in the fall to rustle through the leaves! Don't forget to look in the parking lot to see the life size of a whale and other animals! There is Renfree Park next to this museum if you still have energy you need to burn off.

Gold Rush History Discovery Museum

2006-12-20T13:17:00.000-08:00

Gold Rush History Center
101 I Street, Sacramento, CA 95814
(916) 264-7057 www.thediscovery.org

From the I-5, Exit I or J streets. Follow the signs to Old Downtown Sacramento. It will lead you to the old town area. Park in the parking structures or the metered spaces anywhere around the old town shops. The Gold Rush History museum is past the Railroad Museum to the north of all the shops.

The Gold Rush History Museum is part of the Discovery Museums (Space & Science Discovery Museum). One ticket in either one will get you a free ticket to the other one within 90 days. ($5 adult, $4teens/seniors, $3 kids 4-12, Free 3 and under. Open 10am-5pm. Open everyday July-August. Open Tuesday-Sunday and holiday Mondays in September-June.)

The Gold Rush History Museum is about the days when gold was being discovered and became discovered and the impact on the Sacramento region and people. Right in the entrance (after you pay) is a glass floor where you can see treasures excavated from the streets of Sacramento. It is really cool to look down through the floor. Upstairs are articfacts about clothes, rooms, and treasures from people of this time. Don't forget to try on clothes from this area and take old pictures! Downstairs is agriculture tools and canned food they used in this time period. The 1928 kitchen is really modern (for its time!). Kids will love the puzzles, fake food, and tractor and animal toys here. Lots of history in this museum.

C-Bar-C Park in Citrus Heights

2006-12-20T13:10:00.000-08:00

C-Bar-C Park
8275 Oak Avenue
Citrus Heights, CA 95610

Greenback exit off I-80 North. Continue on Greenback going east 5 miles or so. Turn left on Fair Oaks Blvd. Go a mile or so. Turn right on Oak Avenue. C-Bar-C Park will be on the left at the first light.

This 25 acre park has one of a few dog parks around, for all you dog lovers. There is also a great nature trail that goes around the park that has information stations to learn about trees, plants and nature itself. The playground is not right next to the parking lot nor next to the dog park, it is next to the 4 baseball fields. The paved path that leads to the playground is at the west end of the parking lot. The playground has a small child playground and older child playground along with lots of swings. The open space is great for soccer as well.

Greenback Woods Park in Citrus Heights

2006-12-11T18:35:00.001-08:00

Take the Greenback Blvd exit in Citrus Heights off I-80. Make the first left going east, at Verner Ave. Go a mile or less. Turn right on Flaming Arrow and park on the street next to the park. The golf course will be across teh streeet.

Greenback Woods Park is a cute, quiet, and large neighborhood park. It has a paved walking trail that goes around the perimeter of the park to explore and relax in nature. A nice BBQ area with shaded awnings. Two great playgrounds for all ages along with two types of swings. There is a great sand box area all kids of all ages will love to play and make sand castles in. There are no bathroom facilities at this park. It also has two basketball courts.

Fair Oaks Park and Library in Fair Oaks

2006-11-28T15:16:00.000-08:00

Fair Oaks Park

Take the Madison Ave Exit (off I-80). Go a couple of miles and turn right on Fair Oaks Blvd. The library parking lot is to the right and the park driveway to the parking lot is right after the library driveway.

Fair Oaks Park has a wonderful shaded BBQ area with many tables that overlooks many beautiful oak trees and the playground. The playground itself is great in that it has the padded ground all over the playground, no tan-bark or chips. There is a large sandbox area for kids and their sand toys. There are soccer fields, ball fields and walking trails for dogs, people, and strollers.

The library is next to the park. It is in the Sacramento County Library system. It holds many events and classes. Go in and check out the possibilites.

Royer Park/Saugstad Park in Roseville

2006-11-28T15:08:00.000-08:00

Royer Park
190 Park Drive
Roseville, CA 95678

Take the Douglas Blvd exit (off I-80). Go northeast towards old town. Continue on douglas a mile or less. (Follow the Royer Park signs.) Turn right onto Lincoln St. and left on Sutter and a quick left onto Park Dr. The parking lot is on the right.

Royer Park is in the old town Roseville area. The park itself has two cute playgrounds next to the parking lot. One playground is built like a castle with spires and hiding places and little areas under the slides to put people in "jail". It is very shaded in the summer! The other park is for older children. The slides are very HIGH! There are many slides and paths and stairs that take you up in the sky. There are swings for all ages. The Childrens Art Center building is next to the playgrounds. It is decorated very cute and colorful. There is a cute bridge down the park a little ways that goes over to a lake where you can feed some hungry ducks. There is also a steel bridge near the playground that goes over to the firestation and old town Roseville. It is a very cute setting. Kids of all ages will enjoy this park and open space. There are ball fields across Douglas Blvd. at Saugstad Park.

Maidu Park!, Community Center and Library in Roseville

2006-11-28T14:57:00.000-08:00

Maidu Community Center, Sports Courts, playground, and Maidu Library
1550 Maidu Drive (off Rocky Ridge)
Roseville, CA 95661

Off Douglas Blvd (off I-80).Turn right onto Rocky Ridge Rd. Continue on Rocky Ridge a mile or less. Maidu Park is on the left at the Meadowlark Way traffic light signal.

Maidu Park is a huge park with many ammenities. Maidu is named after the Indians that lived in this area. There is a wonderful statue in front of the community center and library that shows an Indian family. The library is part of the Placer County library system. There is a community center that holds many events and classes for all ages. Check the Recreation Guide for all the evens and classes that you can sign up to take. It has a skate park and swimming pool. Many ball parks, and a very cute playground. The playground has big and small swings, a slide, two train carts that kids will love to crawl through, and a cool maze kids will love. If you child is a train lover they will love this playground and park! This park also has wonderful trails and paths that you can explore around the area.

Sylvan Oaks Library and Crosswoods Park in Citrus Heights

2006-11-22T12:47:00.000-08:00

Sylvan Oaks Library and Crosswoods Park
6742 Auburn Blvd
Citrus Heights, CA 95610

Take the Greenback Exit go east and turn left on Auburn Blvd. The library is on the corner of Auburn Blvd and Van Maren Ln. Go through the light on Auburn and turn left into the parking lot.

This is a great library that holds many classes and books. :) All the Sacramento County libraries are all systemized that you can return your books to any library and your card is good at all of them from Elk Grove to Citrus Heights and around. It has toddler storytime (kids 18months-3years) on Wednesdays at 10:30am. Preschool storytime (3years+) is Thursdays at 11:00am. They both last 1/2 hour and include music, dancing, and stories. Call the library to verify. saclib.org

The Crosswoods Park is next to the library. This is known as the "bunny rabbit" park. Every once in a while you may see a rabbit crusing through the open space behind the playground area. They are people friendly too so you may be able to pet one. This park also has two tennis courts, and great open space next to the creek. The playground is a cute playground that is home to many ladybugs.It also has a community center with restrooms and BBQ areas to have parties. This park makes a great setting for a picnic or an event at the community center.

Van Maren Park!

2006-11-22T12:41:00.000-08:00

Citrus Heights, CA
Take the Greenback Exit in Citrus Heights off the I-80. Go a few miles and turn left at Fountain Square Dr. Go past city hall and the post office. At the round-a-bout turn right at Woodside Drive. Then a left on Thalia Way. The park is on your left. You can park anywhere along the street.

This is one of the newer parks in Citrus Heights within the last year. It is a great quiet neighborhood park for all ages. There are two playgrounds, one for older kids, and one for younger ones. Unfortunately there are no swings. There is a great covered BBQ area and many tables covered by a metal canopy. A drinking fountain and a basketball court are next to the playground. There are no bathroom facilities. There is a lot of open space and wonderful paved trails that go alongside the Arcade Creek. You can even take a sturdy bridge across the river that leads to Costco and Wal-Mart, which are located on Auburn Blvd. Bring your scooters and bikes to ride around this park, along with soccer balls to play on the big grassy fields.

Rusch Park in Citrus Heights

2006-11-22T12:36:00.000-08:00

Rusch Park
7801 Auburn Blvd
Citrus Heights, CA 95610

Take the Antelope Rd exit off I-80 in Citrus Heights. Go east on Antelope Rd. A mile or so on the left side is a parking lot next to baseball fields. Park here for the ball fields, skate park, and a playground. Continue on Antelope Rd and turn left on Auburn. Then turn left into the park entrance. The main Sunrise Recreation offices are here, as well as the swimming pool, classrooms, two more playgrounds, tennis courts, and BBQ areas.

This park is home to the Sunrise Recreation and Parks Department. Drop by and get more information on events, activities, facilities, and classes in and around the Citrus Heights area.

This 53 acre park, is the largest of all the parks in the Sunrise Recreation and Park area. This park features a popular skate park, three baseball diamonds, a swimming pool, four tennis courts, two basketball courts, volleyball courts, and eight BBQ areas. One fenced playground is in the middle of the park surrounded by many beautiful oak trees that make great shade. Another playground is next to the swimming pool, and one more playground area a few yards away next to a nice shaded BBQ seated area. There are many paved walking trails that go throughout this park. There are bathroom facilities by the baseball fields, and others in the recreation dept. building.

Howe Park in Arden

2006-11-22T12:29:00.000-08:00

Howe Park
Take the Fulton exit on I-80 (Capital City Freeway) Go east on Fulton and turn right El Camnio Real. Then turn left on Bell Street. The parking lot will be on the right a 1/2 mile or so.
Or take the El Camino Real/ Bell St exit and continue on Bell St. until you see the park on the right side.

This huge open space park has many ammenities. A great place for the beginner to the elite fisherman to enjoy some nice fish in a man made pond. Many ducks, geese and seagulls roam this park and the lake area. They squak, quack and fly around to get your attention. They seem to love food! There is a small playground with slides and a climbing wall. I think they are in the mist of remodeling the other playground that had swings. There are many paved trails to walk, run or stroll along to view the beautiful scenery, and lots of beautiful bridges that go overlook the creek. It makes such a wonderful, peaceful setting. What a great place for adventureous kids to go explore the creek, if your parents let you. One paved trail takes you across Bell Street to Santa Anita park with a bridge, and more open space. Howe park has bathroom facilities, ball parks, tennis courts, and many parking spots. It is home to the Howe Park Community Center district offices. This is a beautiful park with many walkways and picnic areas.

Glen Hall Park in Sacramento by Sac. State

2006-11-22T12:12:00.000-08:00

Glen Hall Park is by Sac State
Take the Cal Expo exit. On Exposition Blvd turn right on Howe Ave. Then Right on Fair Oaks Blvd. Turn right on Camellia Ave and then a right on Carlson Dr that will lead directly to the middle of the park.

This is a lovely neighborhood park by Sac. State. Many community donors help construct the cute fenced playground that is very accessible for the handicapped as well. It has lots of slides, swings, and play tractor that shovels and scoups. It also has many shade trees that will make it a great playground for the summer. A swimming pool, tennis coursts, and great open space to practice your frisbee throwing skill. And many fields used for soccer games on Saturdays makes this a wonderful park in a great community. There are bathroom facilities next to the playground and swimming pool.

McKinley Park in Downtown Sacramento

2006-11-22T11:55:00.000-08:00

McKinley Park

This park is downtown Sacramento. Off of I-80 (Capital City Freeway), it is on the corners of E St through H St and Alhambra through 35th St.

This is a huge park has many great features for the whole family. A huge wooden playground that has many secret places to hide and explore. The playground has cool slides and swings for all ages. There is a pond right next to the playground that has many hungry (or not so hungry) but chubby, ducks, swans, and geese who would love to eat your stale bread. There are many benches that go around the pond that make a great setting to view. There is a swimming pool open during spring and summer, tennis courts, an art center, and a beautiful community garden to go through. There is also a library in the park.