With three little ones as active as they come, we are always on the hunt for a good playground to burn off energy and get in quality fresh-air playtime. So my kids were thrilled when we found the Regatta Playground, part of the South Mountain Recreation Complex, in West Orange. Picture a giant pirate ship-shaped jungle gym with all the nautical bells and whistles—steering wheels, telescopes, ropes, and ‘sails’ to climb—surrounded by swings, see-saws, playground games, and more. Not only is the entire play area adorable but it’s also designed with different ages and abilities in mind. Plus, the location is ideal—this playground is near another mom-favorite, the Turtle Back Zoo. Read on for more on why this playground is my kiddos’ fave and what to know before you go. (featured photo credit: NJ MOM)

The Regatta Playground At South Mountain Recreation Complex

Pirate ship fun awaits at the Essex County Regatta Playground. Photo Credit: NJ MOM

What’s at the Regatta Playground at South Mountain Recreation Complex

My kids audibly gasped when we drove up to this place—it’s impressive to see the ships’ huge masts and to anticipate all the fun that could happen there. There are two boats, one larger and higher and one smaller and more tailored to little ones. There are also several sets of swings (baby, middle, and big-kid sized) as well as some adorable additions like balance beams, a giant see-saw designed to look like a dragonfly, and these neat faux rocks for a little “mountain climbing” action, as my boys called it. I also love that the area has that cushioned foam-like surface as the flooring, so there are no worries about hard pavement, rubber chips, mulch, or dirt, which can be real playground challenges. The entire playground is perfect for pretend play, especially a pirate adventure, with lookout areas on the deck, below the boat tunnels, and plenty of escape routes courtesy of slides, poles, and rings. The whole place is thoughtfully designed, even down to the ample seating in the play area when Mama needs a break.

Regatta Playground is also super scenic. It sits within the complex’s waterfront section at South Mountain Recreation Complex, right along the Orange Reservoir. There’s a 1.7-mile walking path around the reservoir, which my kids loved checking out, and access points to trails in the South Mountain Reservation. If you’re up for more than playtime, you can rent paddle boats on the water and bring lunch to the large picnic area.

Make it a day trip to Regatta Playground

Because the Regatta Playground is within Essex County South Mountain Recreation Complex, you have a lot of other family fun right at your fingertips, including Turtle Back Zoo, Tree Top Adventure Course, and MiniGolf Safari. South Mountain Reservation is nearby for hikes, including another of our faves, the South Mountain Fairy Trail. And if you need a nosh after hitting one of the best playgrounds in the state (and you will), McLoone’s Boathouse is also right within the Complex, and of course, there’s always the option to brown-bag it, with tons of room along the water to sit and enjoy.

What to know before you go 

Besides ample parking and a traffic light to cross from the lot to the playground safely, the entire play area is gated. Plus, there is just one entrance, which is nice if you’re like me and have kids who sometimes run in opposite directions. There are bathrooms right next door at the picnic area.

To give you an idea of age levels, we saw families with babies up to tweens enjoying the many cool things to check out. The playground has several sections and unique ride-on and climbing features so that it will occupy kids a bit longer than your run-of-the-mill neighborhood jungle gym (and tire them out more). Overall, this playground was a winner for my family, and we can’t wait to go back.

To learn more about the Regatta Playground, visit its website, Facebook, and Instagram.

Regatta Playground
Cherry Lane
West Orange, NJ 07052

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