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Epic Playgrounds that Deliver Summer Fun Larger-than-life playgrounds with crazy-cool climbing structures and mind-blowing amenities are popping up all over San Diego County. These are epic parks to check out with your family this summer!
Mast Park
9125 Carlton Hills Blvd., Santee When you walk into Mast Park, it’s easy to lose count of all the things to do there! Not only does the park feature an awesome tree-house-inspired playground, there is also a beautiful Nature Discovery Area, dog parks, exercise equipment, nature trails, ping-pong tables, and even a food stand on weekends. The play areas are split up by age. The shaded tot lot (for ages 2–5) has a play truck and plenty of fun things to climb, balance and jump on. The larger play area (for ages 5–12) is impressive as it boasts one of the tallest structures around with multiple slides and climbing features. Insider tips: • The parking lot gets busy—go at “off peak” hours if you can. • Bring your own supplies for ping-pong.
Maruta Gardner Playground
1100 W Mission Bay Dr., Mission Bay This playground in Mission Bay’s Bonita Cove is like nothing you’ve ever seen—the unique ropes course and climbing structure (for ages 5–12) was designed to mimic Belmont Park’s Giant Dipper Roller Coaster. Younger kids can’t get enough of this place! The menagerie of swings includes three bucket swings on a spinner, tandem swings, and even a large disc swing that accommodates a few kids at once. Insider tips: • Bring sand toys for the large sand area. • Grab lunch or a treat at Belmont Park across the street.
18 • SanDiegofamily.com • July 2021
