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5 Great Parks and Playgrounds in Thurston County

Parks and playgrounds we love in Thurston County

By Michelle Maestas, Publisher/Editor April 15, 2021

We are lucky in Thurston County to have so many great playgrounds and parks to explore. From swings to slides, to climbing walls and water features, Thurston County parks and playgrounds keep my kids active, are a great place to meet old friends (and make new friends!), and they're FREE!

I often get asked what our favorite playgrounds are, so I thought I'd share here with you my family's picks for our top five playgrounds and parks to visit in Thurston County.

Locations are listed alphabetically:




LBA Park

3333 Morse-Merryman Road SE

Olympia

What we love about LBA Park: 

We love this park because it has an awesome little zip line for kids.  I actually love it too! Great playground with lots of different options for kids.  A place to climb, swing, and just have fun.  Do you love to play tennis, basketball, baseball, softball, or soccer?  If you said yes then this is the place for you.  

Amenities at LBA Park: 

  • Restrooms
  • Picnic Tables 
  • Walking Trails
  • Playground
  • Tennis Court
  • Running Track (.7 mile loop)



Priest Point Park

2600 East Bay Drive NE

Olympia

What we love about Priest Point Park: 

We love this park because not only does it have a great playground but easy access to the ocean shoreline.  The playground features a huge playship that sits on a rubber surface and features a ramp for easy access.  The park has over four miles of hiking trails to enjoy.  This park has something for everyone!  

Amenities at Priest Point Park: 

  • Restrooms
  • Picnic Tables with 
  • Nature Trails
  • Playship Playground with handicap access
  • Beach access
  • Basketball Court



Rainier Vista Community Park

5475 45thAve SE
Lacey 

What we love about Rainier Vista Park: 

We love this park because it basically has something for everyone.  The park has plenty of open green grass to do about anything.  The park also has a really nice paved walking path.  Great skating park for everyone.  My kids love the playground.  My daughter especially loves the climbing wall.  

Amenities at Rainier Vista Park: 

  • Restrooms
  • 2 picnic shelters and tables
  • Skate park
  • Trails
  • Playground 
  • 3 Sand Volleyball courts



Tumwater Falls Park

110 Deschutes Pkwy SW
Tumwater

What we love about Tumwater Falls: 

We can't get enough of this park.  We would go every day if we could.  The little playground is nestled in sand and has two great little ships the kids love to play on and pretend they are pirates.  The best part is the scenic trails and the beautiful waterfalls.  Great place to take photos of the family.  

Amenities at Tumwater Falls: 

  • Walking Trails
  • Bring your dog(has to be leased)
  • Restrooms
  • Picnic Tables
  • Playground
  • Lots of parking



Wonderwood Park

5304 32nd Ave SE
Lacey 

What we love about Wonderwood Park: 

This park has a great walking path for the whole family to enjoy.  They built a brand new playground and the kids love it.  If you are looking for a place to hold a birthday party this would be a great location.  It has everything you need in one place.  The athletic fields offer plenty of room for play.   

Amenities at Wonderwood Park: 

  • Picnic shelters and tables
  • Restroom
  • Barbeque grills
  • Two Playgrounds
  • Trails
  • Athletic fields

We hope this list of top five playgrounds and parks in Thurston County helps you find -- or rediscover! -- some fun places for your family to explore. Now get those kids out to play!