climbing > 2/4 > The Joy Troupe NOVA Family Guide

Pohick Bay Regional Park Playground

July 30, 2012August 1, 2014 - by Meghan - 1 Comment

The playground is themed with woodland details, and the equipment is both challenging and fun. There are some fairly uncommon climbing toys that were new to my kid. (As you may have noticed, he gets to go to a lot of playgrounds, so that’s saying something.) There are four benches for parent seating, the parking is ample and fairly close, and the restrooms are not far off. We were there on a weekday afternoon. Aside from a few sort-of busy periods, we had the place to ourselves. If you get bored on the playground, there is the covered observation deck by the restrooms (I’m told you can spot eagles from that vantage point) and, of course, throwing rocks in the river from the beach to extend your fun.

Butterfly Bench at River Farm Park in Alexandria VA

Greater Alexandria Playgrounds

River Farm Park Children’s Garden

June 19, 2012June 9, 2013 - by Meghan - Leave a Comment

I always refer to this place as one of NOVA’s “little known treasures,” because so many people don’t know it’s there! Once you’ve visited, you’ll say, “I can’t believe I didn’t know about this place!” because it is so amazing you’ll be shocked no one has mentioned it to you. It’s located inside George Washington’s River Farm and is open daily, unless the grounds are rented for a wedding. So if you’re planning a weekend trip, call first or have a backup plan in mind in case it’s closed.

Arlington County VA Playgrounds

Upton Hill Regional Park Playground

May 28, 2012May 31, 2013 - by Meghan - Leave a Comment

This playground is built in what was once a water feature, so there are two levels. My kid loved the fact that there were steps and a little bridge, but it was a hot, sunny day, and the equipment was just a bit too hot to play on. There’s plenty of shady, grassy space to play in, even if the day is very hot.

Greater Alexandria Playgrounds

Chessie’s Big Back Yard

May 18, 2012October 28, 2017 - by Meghan - 2 Comments.

The rubber surface underneath is deep and springy. It will provide very adequate cushioning for any falls. Also, the equipment is fun, varied, and without many high dropoffs. The woodland theme is fun and the railings are very safe. With appropriate supervision, the equipment here would be fun for any age child.

Alexandria City Playgrounds

Windmill Hill Park

April 2, 2012June 4, 2013 - by Meghan - Leave a Comment

If you’ve got a kid who likes to run up the slide, take them to Windmill Hill to have a go at the climbing hill. In fact, climbers, clamberers, and shinniers of all descriptions will love this playground. The climbing hill separates the enclosed playground into two areas- one suitable for toddlers, and one meant for pre-K and up.

Alexandria City Playgrounds

Brookvalley Park

April 2, 2012June 4, 2013 - by Meghan - 2 Comments.

The play equipment in this park is not gathered together into a single playground area, but scattered on either side of the Holmes Run Trail throughout the park. This is either a totally brilliant idea or a totally awful idea, depending on how likely your kid is to dart out in front of oncoming cyclists when they get bored and want to move on to the next piece of equipment.

Alexandria City Playgrounds

Tarleton Park

March 31, 2012January 23, 2014 - by Meghan - Leave a Comment

If you haven’t visited Tarleton Park lately, it’s time for another look. The park’s previous, safe if a bit seedy, play equipment has been demolished. In its place is a fully enclosed off-leash exercise area for dogs, and a brand new, train themed, play area has been installed nearby. New walking paths connect the park with the Holmes Run Trail and with the street. The playground has a rubber surface and is in partial shade, depending on the time of day.

Arlington County VA Playgrounds

Slater Park

March 31, 2012May 31, 2013 - by Meghan - Leave a Comment

Although mostly green space and picnic area, this park does have a preschool age playground tucked into one corner. The playground surface is mulch. The play area is enclosed, and there are benches for the adults. No restrooms, not shaded, and the parking is on street.

Fairfax County Playgrounds

Grist Mill Park Playground

March 29, 2012September 2, 2014 - by Meghan - Leave a Comment

Playground is not shaded. It is fairly near the parking lot but not the street. Ample off-street parking and portolets. Playground surface is mulch, and there are benches and picnic tables nearby. Lots of open space for kids to run in.

Arlington County VA Playgrounds

Parkhurst Park

March 28, 2012August 3, 2014 - by Meghan - Leave a Comment

Parkhurst Park
5820 20th Rd. N.
Arlington, VA 22205

Fairfax County Playgrounds

Draper Drive Park

March 14, 2012April 5, 2012 - by Danette - Leave a Comment

Play ground has mulch under equipment. Fenced in on two sides. Soccer fields next to playground and benches between playground and parking lot. No public bathrooms but two port-a-potties right next to playground.

Fairfax County Playgrounds

Virginia Hills Playground

March 13, 2012May 18, 2013 - by Meghan - Leave a Comment

The Virginia Hills Playground is located behind the Virginia Hills Administrative Center. To get to this playground, park at the Lee District REC Center (6601 Telegraph Road, Alexandria, Virginia) and head away from Telegraph Rd, past the athletic fields, and up the hill on the gravel trail. You’ll go through a small copse of trees and the playground will appear.