Here are some tips for making the most of your summer park days and a list of our favorite playgrounds:
- Pack sunscreen and reapply.
- Pack a snack — nothing makes kids hungry like playing.
- Bring a comfy chair, worth it so you can stay longer and enjoy.
- Keep balls or park toys in the trunk for impromptu park stops.
- Go over the rules prior to getting there — no one is listening once they see the park.
- If you have multiple kids dress them in the same bright colors to easily keep track of them.
- Go early or late, middle of the day heat is the worst time to play.
- Leave no trace, bring out what you bring in, and if you see any trash pick it up.
- Pack bandaids, playground tumbles are common but a well placed bandaid always saves the day.
- Stay hydrated, the summer sun can be brutal, drink up.
Some of our favorite summer spots:
Dominic Lofino Park
Location: 640 Grange Hall Road, Beavercreek
What it has: Lake, fishing, tennis courts, large playground, sandbox, picnic shelter, skate park
Indian Riffle
Location: 2801 E. Stroop Road, Kettering
What it has: Multiple shelter houses, large grassy area, large playground set, rubber turf, toddler playset, skate park, swings, fishing pond (no license required), frisbee golf course, restrooms open seasonally
Oak Grove
Location: 1790 E Social Row Road, Washington Twp.
What it has: Fishing pond (no fishing license required), multi-use trails (paved), picnic shelters, play equipment, archery range, baseball diamonds, soccer fields, tennis courts, restrooms
Makino Park
Location: 6100 Kopfler Court, Mason (worth the drive)
What it has: Fenced in and gated-great for runners, large play structure, multiple tunnels and climbers, toddler playground, accessible for kids of all abilities, accessible zip-line, restrooms
Pamela Chandler is a local mom who writes the Gem City Family column for the Dayton Daily News. Reach out to her at thechandlercrew3@gmail.com.
MORE THINGS TO DO
Visit daytondailynews.com and click “events” to find activities in Southwest Ohio.
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