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, seesaws, 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 family’s fave and what to know before you go. (featured photo credit: NJ MOM)

The Regatta Playground At South Mountain Recreation Complex

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 better suited 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 seesaw 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 a cushioned, foam-like flooring surface, 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, tunnels below the belt, 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.

And did I mention the views? Since it’s within the waterfront section at South Mountain Recreation Complex, right along the Orange Reservoir, parents can take in the stellar scenery while the kids play. There’s a 1.7-mile walking path around the reservoir, which my kids loved checking out, as well as 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

The Regatta Playground is within the Essex County South Mountain Recreation Complex, so consider making it a day of family fun. Just steps away is the Turtle Back Zoo, the Tree Top Adventure Course with zip lines for bigs and littles, and MiniGolf Safari, where the whole family can get their game on. If you’re looking to spend time in nature, the 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.

FAQs

What age group is this playground best for?

To give you an idea of the age range, we saw families with babies and tweens enjoying the many cool things to check out. The playground has several sections and unique ride-on and climbing features, so it will keep kids occupied 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.

Is the playground gated?

In addition to ample parking and a traffic light to cross safely from the lot to the playground, 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.

Are there bathrooms near the Regatta Playground?

There are bathrooms right next door at the picnic area.

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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