You can't miss this park if you're driving up Old San Jose Road. Known for the huge blue spheres that appear to be rolling down the hill below the Soquel High track, this park has the longest slide in the county. The playground equipment is newer and more innovative than some of the older parks in the area, and there's an area for smaller children as well. Though the 95-acre park is mostly grass, there isn't much shade. There are two pavilion areas with tables and barbecues, with the added bonus of a roof for inclement weather. The pavilions can be reserved through Santa Cruz County Parks and Recreation, but be prepared for a fee.
Restrooms, Dogs must be on leash.
Located at the end of Frederick Street, this park boasts lots of open grass area (and it's good grass too-well maintained) and tall eucalyptus and pine trees that provide plenty of shade. There's a sand volleyball court, and picnic areas with barbecues and tables. The playground is built in sand and has the usual slides and swings, monkey bars, and catwalks, but there's also has a fenced-off area with smaller playground equipment for toddlers and babies.
There's a shallow, asphalt-covered bowl with a downhill entry for skateboarding, and paths for riding bicycles. Bonus? The park overlooks the Santa Cruz Small Craft Harbor, which can be accessed by a staircase at the rear of the park. A plus for cruisers with kids, or RV folks camped along the docks. Access to the park from the harbor side is found by the [J] Dock. Largest city parks playground.
Restrooms, Dogs must be on leash.
Field, Ocean View, Large Play Areas, Sand Volleyball Court, Multiple Picnic Areas and BBQ's
This popular park has a little bit of everything. During soccer season, the east field is host to several leagues and there's a game on every weekend. In addition to a community center, there are tennis courts, hoops, a baseball diamond, community gardens, and a playground. If you plan a picnic, plan to bring a blanket. There aren't any tables, though there is plenty of grass. The playground is small, and the equipment is more suited to kids three years and up. Parking can be an issue if there's an activity going on at the community center.
Dogs must be on leash.
MacDorsa Park is a charming site located on Civic Center Drive below City Hall and the Scotts Valley Police Department. Park amenities include a group BBQ pit, picnic tables, playground, restrooms, and gazebo.
Siltanen Park is 7.5 beautiful acres located on Vine Hill School Road in Scotts Valley. Group reservations are available for picnics and company parties. Park amenities include a group BBQ pit, small BBQ pits, picnic tables, two softball fields, a soccer field, children's playground, restrooms, horseshoe pits and a 200 car parking lot.
Skypark features four lighted tennis courts, a walking/jogging path, restrooms, community soccer fields, a basketball court, large children's playground area, a Bocce Ball Court, Recreation Division offices and classroom facility. The park also has individual and group BBQ areas and children's group birthday areas.