**Disclaimer** - I am in no way advocating for people to do something that will get them in trouble. Apparently there are some folks that live in certain communities that are really passionate about non-residents visiting their playgrounds. I don't see why....but in consideration of that fact and that it's technically against the "rules", please take note that I am not telling you to trespass. I am writing this disclaimer because I shared this blog post on a mom's page in my area and a small number of moms were not pleased. I am the person that would get in trouble for visiting a damn playground so please take note that I am not telling you to do it.
I live in an area that has a plethora of playgrounds, but most of these parks are within private communities where the parks are for residents only. I know, technically, that you are not supposed to use something that isn’t yours. But I don’t see in black and white, typically I operate in a gray area. So, I’ve been visiting the nearby playgrounds, both public and private, hoping that I don’t get caught by anyone that might care. (see disclaimer above). Plus, when I visit these places, they are usually empty so I’m not disturbing anyone and we usually pick up litter so having us visit is a bonus for your neighborhood!
While at the playgrounds, I started capturing little notes about what I liked/disliked about each of the locations. These are all my opinions pf course. Figured might as well share because other parents in my area might like to reference the list to find new spaces (but I’m not telling you to trespass) and avoid the duds. Or maybe you aren’t in this area at all and you just want to creep on what I do and where I go. That’s cool too. Just don’t be weird:).Â
Like the recipe sites, I’m not giving you the list until I give you tips:
- Keep a towel in your car to dry off equipment. I like to use the microfiber ones you can get at any of the 2 million car wash locations that exist in Wesley Chapel.Â
-  Bring a travel potty – this is mainly for your kid but I’m not judging. After 3 kids, my bladder control isn’t anything I’d boast about. Anyways, most places do not have restrooms, so it’s nice to have an option besides squatting in the grass and hoping a #2 doesn’t come. I use this one for Evie. It locks and doesn’t use bags that will fill up landfills.Â
- Always bring a change of clothes – general rule for anyone with younger kids. They will find a myriad of ways to get wet/dirty.Â
I’ll keep adding to the list of playgrounds as I visit more. Most will be in the Wesley Chapel area but I do venture out on occasion. I’ll add location and include pictures when I remember to take them!Â
Here they are, now grouped by location and access (private, public-ungated, public-gated):
Playgrounds & Ratings
Amberly – 4.4*
Address: 15823-15885 Amberly Drive, Tampa FL 33647
What I like: I was pleasantly surprised when I uncovered this park. I love all of the trees and the pond fountain. There are two baby swings and two big kid swings, plenty of climbing options as well. This park is excellent for toddlers. There’s a little train for them to climb on and a play structure as well. This place also has the foam pads instead of mulch which is a huge plus. Bathrooms were available but locked when I went.Â
What I don’t like: Multiple signage about how the park is for residents and you may be asked for an ID. I most likely won’t be back since I don’t want to cause a ruckus.Â
Verdict: I would love to visit this park again if I’m in the area but don’t love the multiple signs. Unfortunately, will likely avoid.
Ashely Pines – 3.8
Address: 31200 Ashley Pines Place, Wesley Chapel FL 33543
What I like: Shade covers everything but the swings (2 baby, 2 big kid). The play structure itself is in great shape for an older community and most sections are doable for a toddler. I did have to help her on a couple spots that were higher in order for her to access the slides at that level.Â
What I don’t like: Three’s no entrance to this park. You have to wade through the thick Florida grass to get to the structure.Â
Verdict: There’s a lot of hanging/climbing options if your kid likes that. I, however, likely won’t be back. I don’t like trekking through that type of grass to access an OK park.Â
Avalon Park – 3.7
Address: 5060 River Glen Blvd, Wesley Chapel FL 33545
What I like: Great play structure with barriers so smaller kids won’t fall off. I don’t understand why structures are built with open rails because it means parents have to watch their kids so closely to avoid them plunging face first into the ground below. This one is nicely barricaded.Â
What I don’t like: There’s only one baby swing. There is also no shade here at all so you have to come early or not at all in the warmer months. No monkey bars but my kid resorted to hanging from the nearby bike rack so that’s an option if you have a desperate toddler that insists on being a monkey. The park is also right near the community’s gated pool/splash pad which is a challenge because your kid will probably see it and want to go on it.Â
Verdict: I really like the play structure here. Just wish they had shade. Likely won’t go back since there are better parks on my route.Â
Bridgewater – 4.5
Address: Masena Dr & Sorta St (right off Wells Road near Thomas Weightman Middle School)
What I like: Bridgewater has multiple play structures for all ages. One specifically for toddlers that is boat themed, another for older kids that toddlers can still enjoy with supervision, and a dedicated monkey bar course which is great for my monkey. There are lots of swings so kids don’t have to fight over them as well. Covered pavilions if you want to bring snacks/lunch and a water fountain in case you forgot to bring drinks. The park is clean and has rubber mulch. If the kids just want to run like animals, there’s plenty of grass space as well.
What I don’t like: Only the small playground is covered and there’s really no other shade around so you have to come early in the warmer months or don’t come at all.Â
Verdict: I’ll be back. It’s convenient to my school drop off/pick up and there’s a lot of space and things for her to do.
Country Walk – 4
Address: 4340 Fresh Meadow Way, Wesley Chapel FL 33544
What I like: Large play structure that is completely shaded, swings that go super high and overlook the water, tons of climbing options, and a huge soccer field nearby for the older kids. There’s plenty of room to run and play.Â
What I don’t like: There are parts of the play structure that can be dangerous for younger kids. You have to be up their butts to make sure they don’t fall.
Verdict: This is a solid park choice and it’s conveniently located along my school route. Definitely would go back and recommend to others.
Easton Park – 4*
Address: 10811 Ancient Futures Dr, Thonotosassa, FL 33592
What I like: Swings galore. This is the first private community place I have been to that has 4 baby swings and 4 big kid swings which is super nice. The main play area which has a structure for toddlers and a separate one for older kids is entirely shaded. The merry-go-round has seats which was cool.
What I don’t like: I’m not sure how long it has been like this but one of the sails from the shade is down and covers part of the play structure. It seems safe but it does get in the way of play. There is no specific parking so you have to park on the street (stay off the grass!) Slide on the older kid play area is TALL and scared this momma. Of course, my child loved it.
Verdict: This is a solid park choice and it’s conveniently located along my school route. Definitely would go back.
Epperson North – 3.5
Address: 7727 Boyette Road, Wesley Chapel FL 33545
What I like: Shaded play structure with a good variety of slides and a covered eating area for parents to sit and watch their kids.Â
What I don’t like: There’s not enough swings here (one baby and one bigger kid) and no monkey bars.Â
Verdict: I visited this park when we lived in Epperson but now that I live elsewhere, I wouldn’t stop. It is, however, the better of the two Epperson playgrounds aside from the swings.
Estancia – 2
Address: 4000 Estancia Blvd, Wesley Chapel FL 33543
What I like: Two play structures that appear to be geared towards younger kids and a balance beam.Â
What I don’t like: Areas are not really covered and there are open railings on the play structures so you basically have to be up your kid’s ass the whole time when they’re younger to make sure they don’t fall and get a mouth full of mulch. This was also the first park I went to that actually had ‘no trespassing’ signs everywhere.Â
Verdict: Won’t go back. Nothing special and the multiple no trespassing signs left a bad taste in my mouth thinking that people here might actually care that a non-resident was there.Â
Meadow Pointe 3 – 4
Address: 1500 Meadow Pointe Blvd, Wesley Chapel FL 33543
What I like: There’s rubber mulch and the main play structure is shaded. There are trees around too to provide reprieve. Monkey bars and an old school metal merry-go-round. Highlight for me was definitely the see-saw. Reminded me of my childhood since it was also old school and actually went up and down at least 2 feet. The newer ones are so lame in how they just bounce.Â
What I don’t like:Â The main play structure has open areas so, like other parks, you have to be watchful with the young-uns.Â
Verdict: I would go back if passing by. If anything, it’s worth the stop to see your kid fly on the see-saw like we used to.
Meadow Pointe 4 – 3
Address: 3902 Meadow Pointe Blvd, Wesley Chapel FL 33543
What I like: The play area is gated so you can let your kid roam like a free range chicken. Two play structures including a dedicated monkey bar section and enough swings to enjoy. There’s a cylinder-shaped thing that Evie likes to make me run on. It’s a good core workout for the 5 seconds I can stay upright on it.Â
What I don’t like:Â It feels like this park is made for giants. I’m a small person and the structures here just feel really high. Like the ground sunk underneath or something.Â
Verdict: I won’t go back. Even Evie was ready to leave after 10 minutes (see pic below). There are better parks along my route and this way I can avoid the tootsie roll workout:)
New River – 2
Address: 4944 Prairie View Way, Wesley Chapel FL 33545
What I like: While the playground itself only has one structure, Evie was entertained by walking around the park, playing on the exercise stations and swinging from the monkey bars. The one short slide is either very fast or Evie just shot down quick because she had on polyester pants (in August). Her butt hit the mulch unexpectedly, which made us both laugh. I also loved the frog-themed trash can. Anything to get kids to not litter.
What I don’t like:Â The only park so far that doesn’t have swings. So weird.Â
Verdict: I won’t go back. Swings are a must and there’s really not too much to do.Â
Seven Oaks – 4.5
Address: 2910 Sports Core Circle, Wesley Chapel FL 33544
What I like: There is so much shade here, I love it. Two play structures that are perfect for toddlers, one with a zip line (why don’t more parks have these??) and there are smaller tables spaced around with little umbrellas to have a snack. There’s also a soccer field in the back for play.
What I don’t like: The swings here are a little small. I think it’s the chain length. You really can’t swing that high which can be good for some kids but my crazy nut likes to go “high high.” Also, there’s a splash pad nearby for residents that is a slap in the face to kids who can’t enjoy it lol. I had to deal with my child saying “pash pad” over and over until we left. I even reached out to the community to see about getting a non-resident’s pass but I don’t feel like selling my first born child (yet) to pay for one.
Verdict: Despite the “pash pad”, we will likely be back. It’s heavily shaded and great for toddlers.Â
Stonebridge – 3.5*
Address: 6405 Clifton Down Dr, Zephyrhills FL 33541
What I like: Completely gated area with one main play structure. There are a ton of climbing options and the slides are fast! On most playgrounds, my gal has to scoot her butt down but she flew here. I actually slid down one myself because it looked awesome! There are three slides in a row that would be fun for kids to have races on. There are also bathrooms here that look like they would be accessible to non-residents. They were locked when we were there but I think when their pool opens these would be opened as well.
What I don’t like: While my daughter loved the climbing options, this playground is intended for kids ages 5-12 and it SHOWS! There are multiple places that are high and dangerous and I had a couple panic attacks here because my gal was feeling bold this day. She climbed up the orange ladder in the picture below and I got a couple extra gray hairs from it. Also, there are no swings here and no shade.Â
Verdict: This isn’t a bad play structure but I wouldn’t come here again. The structure is too high and with no shade and no swings, I don’t see a reason to be back aside from the fast slides.Â
Union Park – 4.9
Address: 1705 Union Park Blvd, Wesley Chapel FL 33543
What I like: There’s a lot to do at this park. Evie loved pretty much everything. There’s a bouncy car, good swings, and one main play structure with multi-levels depending on the age. The park also has some unexpected add-on’s like a chalkboard that you can also use for water play (bring a paint brush and a cup for water – there’s a fountain nearby to fill up) and also a sand play area, hopscotch, little library to borrow and loan books, and more. Definitely a park that keeps kids busy.Â
An added bonus –Â this community’s splash pad, which is not too far down the street, is ungated. It’s not epic, but on a hot day, I’d let my kid run through just about anything.Â
What I don’t like:Â There’s is not much shade here other than on the main structure and a place to eat. Also, the one structure does get high and I wouldn’t say it’s suited for most toddlers. Surprisingly, there are no monkey bars. My child loves swinging like a monkey so that’s a bummer. She did find a tree though that worked out fine.
Verdict: We will be back. This park has tons to keep kids entertained.Â
Watergrass (CDD 1) – 3.5
Address: 32711 Windelstraw Dr, Wesley Chapel FL 33545
UPDATED: Please for the love of God, don’t go here if you are not a resident. Apparently they monitor this place and really don’t like outsiders. Would they kick you and your kid out? Probably, And honestly this park isn’t even worth the potential hassle.Â
What I like: Entire play area is shaded and they have nice grass surrounding the playground. Not the typical crappy Florida grass but the skinner/softer blades that you can easily run around in. There’s also a little random hill nearby that kids can run up and down on.Â
What I don’t like: There are only two swings here and they are both for big kids. I was disappointed at first but my toddler actually enjoyed swinging on it. I think she’s old enough to get the idea now that you can’t let go or you’ll get a boo boo. She even played superwoman on it for a bit which was fun to watch. The one play structure does not have barricades so you do have to be mindful of smaller/less cautious kiddos.
Verdict: It’s small and the lack of baby swings is not ideal. If I’m passing by and it’s convenient I would stop again but I wouldn’t go out of my way to visit. (update: would not go back, see note above about monitoring)
Ballast Point – 5*
Address: 15504 Morris Bridge Road, Thonotosassa FL 33592
What I like: First off, this is right by the bay, so having the water view close by is amazing. This park is a little gem nestled at the end of Bayshore Dr. There’s a small splash pad with a water play area in the center (I’ve yet to see this at another park) that is perfect for 2 year olds The actual playground is mostly shaded so you can come any time of day. Small tot structure and a larger play zone for older kids with tons of running space and slides galore. Multiple pavilions and covered areas to eat along with an extremely casual seafood restaurant at the beginning of the fishing pier that serves food and ice cream. I mean, come on. What more do you need?!Â
What I don’t like: Really the drive to get here is the only negative for us. Also, this isn’t a negative for us, but while we were there we saw multiple military planes take off in close proximity. My kids loved it, but some might be scared by the noise.Â
Verdict: One of my favorites. Would recommend even with the drive. Plus I never get tired at oogling at all the houses along the bay.
Branchton- 3.9*
Address: 15504 Morris Bridge Road, Thonotosassa FL 33592
What I like: Play structures are somewhat lower and spread out horizontally so kids can roam on them. This place has a decent amount of slides, 2 big kid and 2 baby swings, and a little balance beam that my daughter enjoyed since she always loves balancing on curbs. There’s also a porta-potty if needed, covered area with two tables for eating, and a .75 fitness trail that goes around with plenty of big trees.
What I don’t like: There’s no shade over the play structures. This didn’t matter for us since we went early, but I’m sure the area gets pummeled by the sun during the day, making the slides hot. I don’t know how much the surrounding trees would help. Also, there were no monkey bars or place to truly climb/hang from which my daughter likes to do
Verdict: It’s a decent playground and the trail is appealing. I would go back but I wouldn’t go during the summer or early fall/late spring unless it’s early or later in the day.
Collier – 4*
Address: 15504 Morris Bridge Road, Thonotosassa FL 33592
What I like: Tube slide is fun and the multi-level climbing option on the play structure reminds me of a hamster cage. The entire main structure is all connected which means you could play a good game of “the floor is lava.” This is a public park so there are bathrooms!
What I don’t like:Â There’s no shade over the play structures and this place can get really crowded due to the sporting events that go on. The fact that there are only two baby swings means you have to wait for a turn most of the time. There is also no shade over the structures and tons of open spots where kids can get hurt or fall.Â
Verdict: I wouldn’t go here on purpose but sporting events often bring me here and I’m grateful to have a spot for my little one to play before games.Â
Del Holmes – 4.8*
Address: 2741 22nd St S, St Petersburg FL 33712
What I like: This has to be one of the best parks I’ve been to because it has numerous play structures and a wonderful splash pad – all connected. Too bad it’s about an hour drive from Wesley Chapel. (We were displaced for a couple months in St Pete while we waited for our house to be finished and this park was about 10 minutes from our temporary place). Evie loved it. There’s turf instead of mulch, swings, and so many structures to climb and swing from. Covered pavilions, a water fountain, and public restrooms as well!
What I don’t like:Â The fact that it’s an hour from WC and that the main area has zero shade. If you are using the splash pad though, it doesn’t really matter.
Verdict: I wouldn’t drive an hour to go to any park but if I was in the St Pete area, I would recommend stopping here.
Julian B Lane Riverfront – 4.9*
Address: 1001 N Blvd, Tampa FL 33606
What I like: There’s a great splash pad complete with a dumping bucket, plenty of public restrooms, natural shade as well as coverings on the main play structure, There’s one toddler structure that’s suitable for under 4 while the other two structures are geared older but the littles can still try to enjoy. The floor of the play area is a combo turf and the bouncy rubbery pad.
What I don’t like: No swings. WTH? Also, the dumping bucket is super cool but honestly it freaked out my kid. She’s never seen one of those and she was terrified of going in the splash pad. I think she’ll like it when she’s older.
Verdict: From my house in Chapel this is about a 35 minute drive. Not horrible and a great option to burn off some of the toddler energy when I’m in the area (it’s kind of convenient for an IKEA run). There are other parks in this area that I want to check out though so I probably won’t come back to this one until my kid is a bit older and hopefully ready for the “big bucket”.
New Tampa Nature Playground – .5*
Address: 17001 Dona Michelle Dr, Tampa FL 33612
What I like: Um……there’s a porta-potty and nature.
What I don’t like: This is not a playground. It’s a sad forgotten place where things go to die. There used to be a zip line here but it’s broken and made for giants. The climbing structure is just as sad with one piece sectioned off with caution tape. Apparently this area floods, evident by the pond of water nearby where picnic tables sat.
Verdict: Abort. My rating is a .5 only because I like nature but that’s it.Â
Northdale Park – 4.98*
Address: 15550 Spring Pine Dr, Tampa, FL 33624
What I like: The play area is turf and the toddler structure has a run up ramp which is always a nice alternative to climbing/steps. There’s a splash pad that operates from 9AM to before sunset but we didn’t get the chance to enjoy it. This is the second park I’ve found with a sibling swing (Mitchell is the other) and there are 3 baby swings plus plenty of big kid ones. Bring chalk for the games. There were lots of squirrels for the kids to watch, public restrooms, a rec center (not sure what’s offered), and outdoor exercise equipment.
What I don’t like: The drive and there is no shade on the main play structure.
Verdict: Close to perfect. This park has EVERYTHING. The only downside is the drive from my house and the lack of shade. But, since Kohl’s is only minutes from this park, it is a great stop when returning those online purchases. Would recommend and go back. Just wish it was closer.
Wesley Chapel District Park – 4.2
Address: 7727 Boyette Road, Wesley Chapel FL 33545
What I like: This playground has a newer inclusive playground for all children. There’s also another section that’s mulch based with a climbing structure/slides/monkey bars and swings. The amount of swings here is a big win. Especially the spider web one. We also like the community garden that is growing nearby. We walk through to see what’s growing though it is a challenge to keep my toddler from picking everything!Â
What I don’t like: There’s simply not enough shade and honestly I think I have higher expectations for this park and am just disappointed. For a family-centered community like ours, I would think we’d have more…mainly a splash pad and completely covered play structures. Something with more “wow.” I reached out to the Park Developer and he said it’s funding dependent but they have no plans currently to put one in. Big damn bummer.
Verdict: We’ll be back. Kid’s sports often lead us here and it’s the only public park in Chapel.Â
W.H. Jack Mitchell Jr Park – 4.5*
Address: 4825 Little Road, New Port Richey FL 34655
What I like: I absolutely love how this playground is laid out. Someone with kids had to have designed it. The main structure is spread across the mulch horizontally, taking up a lot of space. Kids love this because they can run/explore easier and it also allows for toddlers and older kids to have areas suited for them based on height. There are monkey bars, a climbing structure, and the amazing sibling swing (see pic). I also really love the merry-go-round since the it has seats so your kid doesn’t go flying off and they can turn it themselves using the center circle. This park also has a covered area for eating, restrooms, and a little pond with ducks that you could feed if you bring them appropriate food (no bread!).
What I don’t like:Â There’s no shade over the play structures. We were there on a cloudy day but this thing would get hot. Also, the park is about 50 minutes from our house in Chapel. We come her regularly for my daughter’s soccer (damn club teams) so the drive isn’t just to enjoy a park.Â
Verdict: The playground is pretty awesome and it’s only ding is the no-shade. If you live closer to 75 in Chapel, this playground is closer to you and wouldn’t be a bad trip if you plan to stay for an hour (not in the summer). I’ll be back because of soccer but it is a nice stop either way. If it had a splash pad and shade it would be up there with one of the best.Â
Arbor Greene/Heather Sound – 0*
Address: Arbor Greene Blvd, Tampa FL 33647
Verdict: Non-residents cannot access. This is behind a guarded gate access that I didn’t have the balls to go through.
Epperson South – 3
Address: 31077 Epperson Blvd, Wesley Chapel FL 33545
What I like: This used to be the community I lived in and I was never wowed by this playground. But, it’s nice that’s it’s completely gated, plenty of swings, and enough options for my kiddo to hang from and be a monkey.Â
What I don’t like: Only the main play structure is shaded. The maracas on the tot structure are a hazard. My kid has hurt herself on them more than once. The large play structure only has one usable slide unless you have an older kid that can climb well.
Verdict: I won’t ever go back to this park unless visiting friends in the community.
Hamilton Park – 3.5
Address: 4252 Hanbury Dr Wesley Chapel FL 33545
What I like: Small park with one play structure that Evie enjoyed. Her favorite thing was the swings though. She didn’t want to get off. It’s actually in a gated community but the gates are always open when I drive by in the morning. Â
What I don’t like: No shade.
Verdict: It’s very small. Likely won’t go back but it was a good/quick stop when I needed it that day.
Lake Bernadette – 0*
Address: 5500 Golf Links Blvd, Zephyrhills FL 33541
Verdict: Non-residents cannot access. This is behind a gate that requires a keycard. Playground looks nice and is shaded with mature trees.
Watergrass (Promenade Park) – 0
Address: Old Bridge Rd, Wesley Chapel FL 33545
Verdict: Non-residents cannot access. This is behind a gate that requires a keycard. Playground is amazing though and there’s a splash pad. We visited once or twice before for birthday parties and if my memory serves, my kids enjoyed it.
*these parks are outside of Wesley Chapel proper.Â
As a resident and member of Watergrass, we don’t welcome non residents because we pay a pretty penny for OUR amenities so don’t be upset. There are plenty of public parks for your adorable little girl. It’s not meant to come off jerky, we just ask that people respect that.
I guess this land is your land this land is my land doesn’t apply to the “wealthy” when they start buying up Gaza2