If you want to surprise your kids with a neighborhood park experience that has a “secret” twist, look no further than Winter Park!
Nestled in northwest Albertville, Winter Park boasts trails, athletic fields, and not one but TWO playgrounds. This park is also home to Albertville’s only public, fenced-in dog park.
When it comes to parks, I like to think of Swamp Lake Park as STMA’s best-kept secret. While it’s a little “off the beaten path,” this recreation area is definitely worth a visit, especially if you have young kids.
The park itself has no parking lot, so to access it you’ll need to park on the street and walk in via one of the trail access points. The quickest and safest place to park is located in the cul-de-sac on 2nd Street NW. (click here for map)
In addition to swings and a sand pit, the playground has both a small play structure for toddlers as well as a larger one for the 5-10 age group. My kids love to play hide-and-seek with friends on this playground because there are a number of tunnels and tube slides to disappear into. They’re also big fans of the tire swing and seeing how many buddies they can fit on it at the same time!
Be sure to pack along your stroller to give tiny toddler legs a break, and consider having your bigger kids bring their bikes or scooters as the long straight trail is a great spot to pick up some speed.
Swamp Lake Park
Location: 1/4 mile west of Main Street on Heights Road | 398 Heights Road NW (map)
Features: Playground, basketball court (located on NE end of park, between 1st and 2nd Ave), soccer field, gazebo, paved trail, green space
Playground Turf: Wood chips, plus a small sand area
Recommended age range: 1–10
Restrooms: Portable
Parking: Street parking
Trails: Single sidewalk separating playground and green space from wetland area
Walnut Park
Location: 1/4 mile west of Main Street on Walnut Avenue | 300 Walnut Avenue SW (map)
Features: Playground, gazebo, little library, picnic tables, baseball field, soccer field, basketball court, paved trail
Community Education’s Creative Kids Camps kick off next week and are being offered through mid-July.
Kids ages 4 through 3rd grade can take part in these week-long camps that encourage creativity and learning in a fun environment. Topics include everything from painting and printmaking to music and acting. Your child can create a fairy garden, finger knit a cowl, or even earn their white belt in karate!
There are four calendar sessions to choose from, each one offering a variety of themes and projects from a large pool of instructors.
The classes take place at St. Michael Elementary, and the cost is $45 for a four-day camp. Your student can also sign up for multiple classes during the same session at a discounted price. (2 classes $75, or 3 classes $95)
Register online at https://stma.ce.eleyo.com/search?sf%5Bcategory%5D%5B%5D=76
| Week 1 June 19-22 |
Week 2 June 26-29 |
Week 3 July 10-13 |
Week 4 July 17-20 |
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Welter Playlot
Location: South of Middle School West | 399 Ivory Ave NE (map)
Features: Playground, basketball court