Capital District Playground List

Put together by Katie at www.capitaldistrictfun.com and super-helpful Capital District Fun readers all over the area! Are we missing a great one? Fill out a survey here.

3rd & Canal Playground

3rd St & Canal St, Troy NY 12180,

Bathrooms?	Picnic Tables?	Baby Swings?	Snacks?	Fields?	Hiking Trails?	Paved Bike Paths?	Pond/Stream?	Pool/Sprayers?	Basketball?	Tennis?	Surface?
Nope	Yes	Yes	No	No	No	No	No	No	No	No	Grass/dirt

Weather conditions at this playground are: A mix of sun and shade.

If you live nearby, the overall rating is: Mixed, but my kids like it.

If this playground’s a trip for you, the overall rating is: Really not worth your time.

If your child is a “flight risk”, There's a fence that's usually closed..

More information from your friendly reviewer: This playground is very small, and very inner-city, but perfect for walking distance families who just need to get out of the house for a little while. Swings and trees in the middle of the city! Hah!

Signed: PickwickAli

Baker Avenue Park/Field

Baker Avenue near Lexington Parkway, in Old Niskayuna, No

Bathrooms?	Picnic Tables?	Baby Swings?	Snacks?	Fields?	Hiking Trails?	Paved Bike Paths?	Pond/Stream?	Pool/Sprayers?	Basketball?	Tennis?	Surface?
Nope	Nope	Nope	No	Yes		No	No	No	No	No	Grass/dirt

Weather conditions at this playground are: A mix of sun and shade.

If you live nearby, the overall rating is: Mixed, but my kids like it.

If this playground’s a trip for you, the overall rating is: Really not worth your time.

If your child is a “flight risk”, Yikes, I'd be careful of the cars--it's VERY CLOSE to the street/parking lot..

More information from your friendly reviewer: This is really an "area "in a sweet location, where older kids (12+) can play. It is great because it is land that contains just trees, and grass. My son and his friends LOVE to go there. They play baseball, capture the flag, and have a good time.

It's nice because it is frequently uninhibited, it's not REALLY a park, but neighborhood kids love this spot! It's an uninhabited, lovely place, in an over-crowded world.

It's not a playground for little kids.

Signed:

Birchwood elementary school playground

897 Birchwood lane niskayuna ny, No

Bathrooms?	Picnic Tables?	Baby Swings?	Snacks?	Fields?	Hiking Trails?	Paved Bike Paths?	Pond/Stream?	Pool/Sprayers?	Basketball?	Tennis?	Surface?
Nope	Yes	Yes	No	Yes	Yes	Yes	No	No	Yes	No	Wood Chips

Weather conditions at this playground are: A mix of sun and shade.

If you live nearby, the overall rating is: Mixed, but my kids like it.

If this playground’s a trip for you, the overall rating is: Really not worth your time.

If your child is a “flight risk”, It's so secluded that the kid can't get anywhere, anyway..

More information from your friendly reviewer: Slides get very wet

Signed: Annie

Buckingham Lakes Park

Berkshire Blvd., Albany NY,

Bathrooms?	Picnic Tables?	Baby Swings?	Snacks?	Fields?	Hiking Trails?	Paved Bike Paths?	Pond/Stream?	Pool/Sprayers?	Basketball?	Tennis?	Surface?
Just one/limited availability	Yes	Yes	No	No	Yes	Yes	Heck, yeah!	No	No	No	Grass/dirt

Weather conditions at this playground are: A mix of sun and shade.

If you live nearby, the overall rating is: Awesome! GO NOW!!!.

If this playground’s a trip for you, the overall rating is: Really fun & worth a trip.

If your child is a “flight risk”, Yikes, I'd be careful of the cars--it's VERY CLOSE to the street/parking lot..

More information from your friendly reviewer: also a special needs swing Path is gravel. Ducks and geese in lake. This is our close by, go-to playground, so my kids love it. And all their little buddies love it. And on warm, sunny days, it can get busy. So lots of kids love it. I’m not sure I’d drive 10 miles (the survey asks) unless I was meeting friends there, but it’s a special place to us—and lots of others.

It’s the kind of park you remember going to when you were a little kid—a beautiful little place tucked into a neighborhood with a jungle gym, some swings, trees, and the pond. You cannot beat how excited the kids are to see the ducklings every Spring (a year or two ago we counted almost 30)—adorable photo ops there. Turtles sunning themselves on logs all summer long is also a big draw, along with finding the monster koi fish on a hike around the pond.

Now that I’m thinking of it and mentally going through my Buckingham photos over the years, maybe I would drive 10 miles… You know, I think I would.

Signed: http://momxchangeblog.tumblr.com/post/507071667/mxc-does-buckingham-lake-park\

Another reviewer says: it's the whole package--with playground, picnic tables, short nature trail--something for everyone!

Signed: amy, karen's sister

Butler Park

Just past Averill Park High School on Gettle Road, Averill Park, NY,

Bathrooms?	Picnic Tables?	Baby Swings?	Snacks?	Fields?	Hiking Trails?	Paved Bike Paths?	Pond/Stream?	Pool/Sprayers?	Basketball?	Tennis?	Surface?
Just one/limited availability	Yes	Yes! Plentiful & Lovely	No	Yes	Yes	No	No	No	Yes	No	Wood Chips

Weather conditions at this playground are: A mix of sun and shade.

If you live nearby, the overall rating is: Awesome! GO NOW!!!.

If this playground’s a trip for you, the overall rating is: Really fun & worth a trip.

If your child is a “flight risk”, I'd be careful of the cars--it's sort of near the street/parking lot..

More information from your friendly reviewer: This is a brand new playground (opened last year) with a futuristic theme. I would say that quite a bit of the playground is for the younger crowd (infant - 5 year olds), but that there is one structure for older kids and that there are older kid swings as well. The older kid structure is different... a slide without sides, climbing ropes, some crazy hoops, etc.

There are plentiful infant swings, a firetruck twin slide and monkey bar set, a toddler slide and bridge structure, and these fairly neat (and dirty) digging gravel scoops. I love how it is new (not falling part, no splinters, etc.) and different than many other playgrounds out there. Its proximity to the high school could be considered a detractor at school dismissal time.

Signed:

Captain's Choice (?)

Rensselaer NY under the Dunn Memorial Bridge, on the bank of the Hudson River, near the boat dock. (Access from Broadway.),

Bathrooms?	Picnic Tables?	Baby Swings?	Snacks?	Fields?	Hiking Trails?	Paved Bike Paths?	Pond/Stream?	Pool/Sprayers?	Basketball?	Tennis?	Surface?
Nope	Yes! Plentiful & Lovely	Just one/limited availability	No	Heck, yeah!	No	Yes	Yes	No	Yes	Yes	Grass/dirt

Weather conditions at this playground are: Sunny all the time.

If you live nearby, the overall rating is: Really fun & worth a trip.

If this playground’s a trip for you, the overall rating is: Mixed, but my kids like it.

If your child is a “flight risk”, It's pretty close to the water--does (s)he know how to swim?.

More information from your friendly reviewer: There are see-saws!

But if I remember correctly, not much in the way of climbing structures. Courts are a bit run-down, and some of the courts are directly under the bridge/overpass. A hidden gem, if you like being by the river.

Signed: Emma in Albany

Castle Ridge Playground

The playground is located at Latham Ridge School.

http://v4.cache1.c.bigcache.googleapis.com/static.panoramio.com/photos/original/46507208.jpg?redirect_counter=1

6 Mercer Avenue

Latham, NY 12110

(518) 785-3211

Only open to the public when school is not in session. ,

Bathrooms?	Picnic Tables?	Baby Swings?	Snacks?	Fields?	Hiking Trails?	Paved Bike Paths?	Pond/Stream?	Pool/Sprayers?	Basketball?	Tennis?	Surface?
Nope	Nope	Yes	No	Heck, yeah!	No	No	No	No	No	No	Wood Chips

Weather conditions at this playground are: Sunny all the time.

If you live nearby, the overall rating is: Awesome! GO NOW!!!.

If this playground’s a trip for you, the overall rating is: Really fun & worth a trip.

If your child is a “flight risk”, I'd be careful of the cars--it's sort of near the street/parking lot..

More information from your friendly reviewer: It's a large wooden structure that has activites for kids of all ages. Also, parents can fit in all of the tunnels (I did when I was 7 months pregnant) so you can play along with your child.

Signed: pumkingirl32

Castleton Elementary School's Playground

80 Scott Ave. Castleton-on-Hudson NY 12033,

Bathrooms?	Picnic Tables?	Baby Swings?	Snacks?	Fields?	Hiking Trails?	Paved Bike Paths?	Pond/Stream?	Pool/Sprayers?	Basketball?	Tennis?	Surface?
Nope	Nope	Nope	No	Yes	No	No	No	No	Yes	Yes	Wood Chips

Weather conditions at this playground are: Sunny all the time.

If you live nearby, the overall rating is: Awesome! GO NOW!!!.

If this playground’s a trip for you, the overall rating is: Fun.

If your child is a “flight risk”, It is not fenced, but there are fields surrounding.

More information from your friendly reviewer: The playground and surrounding fields (tennis/basketball) are all brand new. They were reconstructed when they re-did the elementary school. There are not picnic tables, but there is a covered pavillion with built in benches. As the playground is in the open sun, the pavillion provides a nice, shady area to park a stroller. It's all brand new, within the past year. It's not the biggest, but it's not as crowded as some we've been to. There could be more for little ones, but hey, it is designed for an elementary school. For 3+, it's great.

Signed: angelflute1978

Central Park

Fehr Road & Ashmore Avenue,

Bathrooms?	Picnic Tables?	Baby Swings?	Snacks?	Fields?	Hiking Trails?	Paved Bike Paths?	Pond/Stream?	Pool/Sprayers?	Basketball?	Tennis?	Surface?
Yes	Just one/limited availability	Yes! Plentiful & Lovely	Yes	Yes	Heck, yeah!	Yes	Heck, yeah!	Heck, yeah!		Yes

Weather conditions at this playground are: A mix of sun and shade, Windy, Too cold on cold days, Cooler than other places on hot days.

If you live nearby, the overall rating is: Awesome! GO NOW!!!.

If this playground’s a trip for you, the overall rating is: Fun.

If your child is a “flight risk”, There's a fence that's usually closed., Yikes, I'd be careful of the cars--it's VERY CLOSE to the street/parking lot..

More information from your friendly reviewer: Picnic tables were available last year, but they weren't out yet for the season as of mid-March. Ice Cream is available when Mike's Casino is open. There's a baseball field and a stage that's a short distance away. On weekends you can rent paddle boats for the lake. A short walk away there's a rose garden that my kids love to walk through. There's a newer little kids' playground that's really nice. Across the parking lot is an "old school" big kids' playground with lots of metal. There are often concerts and events here, so if you're coming from far away, you might time it with something else going on to make it more worth the trip.

Signed: Katie

Charlton Heights Elementary School

170 Stage Road

Ballston Lake, NY 12019,

Bathrooms?	Picnic Tables?	Baby Swings?	Snacks?	Fields?	Hiking Trails?	Paved Bike Paths?	Pond/Stream?	Pool/Sprayers?	Basketball?	Tennis?	Surface?
Nope	Yes	Yes	No	Yes	No	No	No	No	No	No	rubber chips

Weather conditions at this playground are: A mix of sun and shade.

If you live nearby, the overall rating is: Awesome! GO NOW!!!.

If this playground’s a trip for you, the overall rating is: Really fun & worth a trip.

If your child is a “flight risk”, No Worries! It's fenced & always super-secure.

More information from your friendly reviewer: There is a nice shaded pavilion for parent's to sit and watch. The park is enclosed and has a wooden castle structure and very cool climbing structures or walking structures. It's a great place for the kids to play independently without too many worries. There is a nice area for lunch. The only caveat is it is at an elementary school so use is after school hours.

Signed: Jenn D

More information from your friendly reviewer: The playground is a cool maze/castle. It is new too! It is different from the usual playground and changes things up for the kids for a day. They can play hide and seek in the maze/castle.

Signed: Jess

Clifton Commons

County Road 90 & Clifton Common Blvd., Clifton Park, http://www.cliftonpark.org/townhall/parks-rec/

Bathrooms?	Picnic Tables?	Baby Swings?	Snacks?	Fields?	Hiking Trails?	Paved Bike Paths?	Pond/Stream?	Pool/Sprayers?	Basketball?	Tennis?	Surface?
Yes	Yes	Yes	No	Yes	No	Yes	No	No	Yes	No	Wood Chips

Weather conditions at this playground are: A mix of sun and shade, Sheltered from the wind.

If you live nearby, the overall rating is: Awesome! GO NOW!!!.

If this playground’s a trip for you, the overall rating is: Really fun & worth a trip.

If your child is a “flight risk”, There's a fence that's usually closed., I'd be careful of the cars--it's sort of near the street/parking lot..

More information from your friendly reviewer: This is a wooden/tire playground. It's nicely enclosed, but it can be difficult to keep track of your kids--it's really made for kids to move around in instead of adults, and visibility can be poor. I'm remembering as best I can with these answers. The coolest bonus feature is that the playground is right next to the ice rink, so sometimes there's a big pile of icy snow in the parking lot in the middle of summer. The structures itself give it a different "feel" from your average playground, so it's a nice change of pace. In the summer there are often shows or concerts nearby, so it's a nice destination for a picnic night out.

Signed: Katie

Collins Park

Mohawk Avenue & Schonowee Avenue, Scotia, http://www.townofglenville.org/Public_Documents/GlenvilleNY_WebDocs/geninfo

Bathrooms?	Picnic Tables?	Baby Swings?	Snacks?	Fields?	Hiking Trails?	Paved Bike Paths?	Pond/Stream?	Pool/Sprayers?	Basketball?	Tennis?	Surface?
Yes	Yes	Yes! Plentiful & Lovely	Yes	Heck, yeah!	No	No	Heck, yeah!	No	Heck, yeah!	Yes	Sand

Weather conditions at this playground are: Sunny all the time.

If you live nearby, the overall rating is: Awesome! GO NOW!!!.

If this playground’s a trip for you, the overall rating is: Really fun & worth a trip.

If your child is a “flight risk”, There's a fence that's usually closed..

More information from your friendly reviewer: Snacks aren't right there, but Jumpin' Jacks is right across the street--basic fried food and soft ice cream. There are swimming lessons in the morning and lifeguards in the afternoon at the lake beach. Much of the equipment is new, so it's a good playground on its own, but its proximity to the lake and Jumpin' Jacks make it a real destination. Bring sand toys.

Signed: Katie

Cook Park

Lincoln Avenue & Shambrook Parkway, Colonie, http://www.colonievillage.org/youth/index.htm

Bathrooms?	Picnic Tables?	Baby Swings?	Snacks?	Fields?	Hiking Trails?	Paved Bike Paths?	Pond/Stream?	Pool/Sprayers?	Basketball?	Tennis?	Surface?
Yes	Yes	Just one/limited availability	No	Heck, yeah!	Heck, yeah!	No	No	Yes	No	No	Sand

Weather conditions at this playground are: A mix of sun and shade, Cooler than other places on hot days.

If you live nearby, the overall rating is: Really fun & worth a trip.

If this playground’s a trip for you, the overall rating is: Fun.

If your child is a “flight risk”, I'd be careful of the cars--it's sort of near the street/parking lot..

More information from your friendly reviewer: I can't remember about the baby swings. There's a fountain--not for wading in, alas. Also, baseball diamonds. This is a shady park, and it's fairly small. But it's a great place for a pit stop if you're in the middle of errands--there are picnic tables in the shade and a bathroom, and it's not far off Central Avenue. Better for younger kids.

Signed: Katie

East Side Recreation

Lake Avenue and Granger Street, Saratoga Springs 12833,

Bathrooms?	Picnic Tables?	Baby Swings?	Snacks?	Fields?	Hiking Trails?	Paved Bike Paths?	Pond/Stream?	Pool/Sprayers?	Basketball?	Tennis?	Surface?
Yes	Nope	Yes	No	No	No	Yes	No	Yes	Yes	Yes	Wood Chips

Weather conditions at this playground are: A mix of sun and shade.

If you live nearby, the overall rating is: Fun.

If this playground’s a trip for you, the overall rating is: Really not worth your time.

If your child is a “flight risk”, There's a fence that's usually closed..

More information from your friendly reviewer: It is an older playground, but one of my favorites in Saratoga. There is a shaded sprinkler area in one part of the park. Some of the playground structures are really old. Parking is usually easy. Not the most toddler friendly playground. Writing this makes me wonder why I like it so much?! The playground is a short walk from the sprinkler, but far enough away that your kids have to choose one or the other. You will not get them prepped for a sprinkler only to have them go on the swings. The bathroom is a hike from both the sprinkler and the playground. It usually works as a transition for us. Sprinklers-Bathroom-Playground. The combination of sprinkler and playground, with a walkable distance in between.

Signed: Meghan

Elm Ave Park

Bethlehem/Delmar/Glenmont area. On Route 32 going towards Selkirk on the right hand side., http://www.townofbethlehem.org/pages/parkElm/parkElm.asp

Bathrooms?	Picnic Tables?	Baby Swings?	Snacks?	Fields?	Hiking Trails?	Paved Bike Paths?	Pond/Stream?	Pool/Sprayers?	Basketball?	Tennis?	Surface?
Just one/limited availability	Yes! Plentiful & Lovely	Yes! Plentiful & Lovely	Yes	Heck, yeah!	Heck, yeah!	Heck, yeah!	Heck, yeah!	Heck, yeah!	Heck, yeah!	Heck, yeah!	That new spongy playground surface stuff

Weather conditions at this playground are: A mix of sun and shade, Windy.

If you live nearby, the overall rating is: Awesome! GO NOW!!!.

If this playground’s a trip for you, the overall rating is: Awesome! GO NOW!!!.

If your child is a “flight risk”, I'd be careful of the cars--it's sort of near the street/parking lot..

More information from your friendly reviewer: Very large wooden playground!! Open fields to play in very close to park area. Pool complex costs money but is WELL worth it for a full day of swimming, diving and playing in the splash area! Porta-potty very close to the playground large enough for a mom and child. Public restrooms in park building not far from the playground. Pool complex has concession stand and public restrooms as well as showers and changing rooms.

Signed: bmom

Empire State Plaza playground

Madison Avenue and South Swan Streets, Albany, NY

(That's the closest intersection, but you can't see the playground from there. In order to find the playground, you need to walk into the Empire State Plaza, and then head back toward that same corner. It's very hidden. Look for a large metal cube sculpture, or ask someone with kids.),

Bathrooms?	Picnic Tables?	Baby Swings?	Snacks?	Fields?	Hiking Trails?	Paved Bike Paths?	Pond/Stream?	Pool/Sprayers?	Basketball?	Tennis?	Surface?
Nope	Nope	Nope	No	No	No	Yes	No	No	No	No	That new spongy playground surface stuff

Weather conditions at this playground are: A mix of sun and shade.

If you live nearby, the overall rating is: Fun.

If this playground’s a trip for you, the overall rating is: Really not worth your time.

If your child is a “flight risk”, It's not fenced. Kids can run off -- but they'll still be in a park/pedestrian plaza area, not anywhere near traffic..

More information from your friendly reviewer: A bunch of slides. No swings. Equipment is mostly for younger kids. A nice playground. Nothing fancy, but a fun place to play hidden away in the city.

Signed: downtownMama

Eunice O. Esposito Park

From Curry Road (near St. Gabriel's Church), turn onto Fayette Drive. The entrance to the park will be on your left.

Bathrooms?	Picnic Tables?	Baby Swings?	Snacks?	Fields?	Hiking Trails?	Paved Bike Paths?	Pond/Stream?	Pool/Sprayers?	Basketball?	Tennis?	Surface?
Just one/limited availability	Yes! Plentiful & Lovely	Just one/limited availability	No	Yes	Yes	Yes	No	No	Yes	Yes	Wood Chips

Weather conditions at this playground are: Sunny all the time.

If you live nearby, the overall rating is: Really fun & worth a trip.

If this playground’s a trip for you, the overall rating is: Mixed, but my kids like it.

If your child is a “flight risk”, .

More information from your friendly reviewer: The Eunice O. Esposito Park has received major renovations to provide for a safe environment and a more user friendly park. The park has an expanded parking lot, two tennis courts, new playground equipment, a pavilion, full court basketball court, bocce ball courts that are handicap accessible. This park is also the "home" of the Rotterdam Girls Softball League with four separate fields. (Snacks are availkable when games are being played and the concession stand open)

I would give this playground an "awesome" rating when there are softball games going on because it is more lively and you get some entertainment, concession stands, etc.

Signed: Jbutterfly

FANS (Friends and Neighbors of Ballston Spa) Playground

39 Ralph Street

Ballston Spa, NY 12020, http://www.fansofballstonspa.org/

Bathrooms?	Picnic Tables?	Baby Swings?	Snacks?	Fields?	Hiking Trails?	Paved Bike Paths?	Pond/Stream?	Pool/Sprayers?	Basketball?	Tennis?	Surface?
Nope	Nope	Yes	No	Yes	Yes	No	Yes	No	No	No	That new spongy playground surface stuff

Weather conditions at this playground are: Sunny all the time, Too hot on hot days, Nice and warm on cooler days.

If you live nearby, the overall rating is: .

If this playground’s a trip for you, the overall rating is: Really fun & worth a trip.

If your child is a “flight risk”, There's a fence that's usually closed..

More information from your friendly reviewer: The playground has some interesting fort structures, swings and whole separate enclosed area for toddlers. The creek runs right next to this playground with lots of places to explore. I hear folks swim in it in the summer! We liked it because it was new to us. The kids loved the different things available in the playground structure. My son loved the fields where he and dad played baseball while we all had a picnic. The creek was also a HUGE hit. That's too many bests, huh?

Signed: Cheri

Gavin Park

10 Lewis Road, Wilton, NY

, http://www.townofwilton.com/gavin-park/index-gallery.asp

Bathrooms?	Picnic Tables?	Baby Swings?	Snacks?	Fields?	Hiking Trails?	Paved Bike Paths?	Pond/Stream?	Pool/Sprayers?	Basketball?	Tennis?	Surface?
Yes! Plentiful & Lovely	Yes! Plentiful & Lovely	Yes	No	Yes	No	No	No	No	Yes	Yes	Wood Chips

Weather conditions at this playground are: Sunny all the time.

If you live nearby, the overall rating is: Awesome! GO NOW!!!.

If this playground’s a trip for you, the overall rating is: Really fun & worth a trip.

If your child is a “flight risk”, I'd be careful of the cars--it's sort of near the street/parking lot..

More information from your friendly reviewer: The structures are relatively new. Bathrooms are nice. There is a pavilion with some vending machines. This is my kids' favorite playground.

Signed: Meghan

Grout Park

Hamburg Street, Schenectady,

Bathrooms?	Picnic Tables?	Baby Swings?	Snacks?	Fields?	Hiking Trails?	Paved Bike Paths?	Pond/Stream?	Pool/Sprayers?	Basketball?	Tennis?	Surface?
Nope	Nope	Nope	No	Heck, yeah!	No	No	No	No	Yes	No	Grass/dirt

Weather conditions at this playground are: Sunny all the time, Windy.

If you live nearby, the overall rating is: Mixed, but my kids like it.

If this playground’s a trip for you, the overall rating is: Really not worth your time.

If your child is a “flight risk”, It's so secluded that the kid can't get anywhere, anyway..

More information from your friendly reviewer: Most of the equipment is broken down or in poor shape. This park is best known because of what used to be there- a nice playground, a neighborhood pool and Babe Ruth little league. The Grout School is now the School at Northeast, which is across the street. Now there is a lot of room to run around, usually no one else is there. I think the basketball hoop is still there. It's nice for dogs who need a chance to get off of the leash, flying kites or model planes, or shooting off model rockets. There was some movement towards fixing up the park to make it a destination for a Guyanese American Cricket League. Not sure what became of it, but I did see a match there once!

Unfortunately, there has been a good deal of vandalism and the bathroom facilities are now closed.

Signed: Dani

Halfmoon Town Playground

It is off route 236. If you are going north on route 236 from the exit 8 area you take a right at the traffic light and it is behind the town of Halfmoon court/sheriff building. ,

Bathrooms?	Picnic Tables?	Baby Swings?	Snacks?	Fields?	Hiking Trails?	Paved Bike Paths?	Pond/Stream?	Pool/Sprayers?	Basketball?	Tennis?	Surface?
Nope	Yes	Yes	No	Heck, yeah!	No	No	No	No	Heck, yeah!	Heck, yeah!	Wood Chips

Weather conditions at this playground are: A mix of sun and shade.

If you live nearby, the overall rating is: Fun.

If this playground’s a trip for you, the overall rating is: Fun.

If your child is a “flight risk”, There's a fence that's usually closed..

More information from your friendly reviewer: New equipment as well as classic older! The field is mostly fenced in an no access to the road if the gate is locked. Perfect for an independent toddler! It has some newer equipment as well as some older classic equipment. We like that the newer area is nearly all fenced in. The fence is gated to keep kids away from the parking lot but it is not fenced in around the backside of the building. It also has fenced in tennis and basketball courts. As well as a 3 sided fenced area of a field.

Signed: Meghan

Hillside Elementary Playground

1100 Cornelius Avenue, Niskayuna,

Bathrooms?	Picnic Tables?	Baby Swings?	Snacks?	Fields?	Hiking Trails?	Paved Bike Paths?	Pond/Stream?	Pool/Sprayers?	Basketball?	Tennis?	Surface?
Just one/limited availability	Nope	Nope	No	Yes	No	No	No	No	Yes	No	Wood Chips

Weather conditions at this playground are: Sunny all the time, Windy, Too hot on hot days.

If you live nearby, the overall rating is: Really fun & worth a trip.

If this playground’s a trip for you, the overall rating is: Fun.

If your child is a “flight risk”, I'd be careful of the cars--it's sort of near the street/parking lot..

More information from your friendly reviewer: There's not even a bench, so bring picnic blankets or camp chairs. This is a school playground, so it's not available during school hours. Bathroom's at the school, so availability depends on if it's open. There's an uninhabited "bus loop" right next to the playground if you want to bring bikes. The equipment is new and includes a wavy "group see-saw" thing that I've never seen anywhere else. This neighborhood is walkable, which means there's usually at least a couple of people here (which is fun), sometimes unsupervised groups of big kids (less fun). This is not a very toddler-friendly park, but it's great for the elementary school set.

Signed: Katie

Imagination Station at Shaker Road Elementary

512 Albany Shaker Road, Albany, http://www.southcolonieschools.org/ShakerRoad/index.cfm

Bathrooms?	Picnic Tables?	Baby Swings?	Snacks?	Fields?	Hiking Trails?	Paved Bike Paths?	Pond/Stream?	Pool/Sprayers?	Basketball?	Tennis?	Surface?
Just one/limited availability	Yes	Nope	No	No	No	No	No	No	No	No	I don't remember--maybe wood chips?

Weather conditions at this playground are: A mix of sun and shade, Sheltered from the wind.

If you live nearby, the overall rating is: Awesome! GO NOW!!!.

If this playground’s a trip for you, the overall rating is: Really fun & worth a trip.

If your child is a “flight risk”, There's a fence that's usually closed., It's so secluded that the kid can't get anywhere, anyway..

More information from your friendly reviewer: This is one of those all-wood playgrounds. It's at an elementary school, so you can't go while school's in session & bathrooms aren't available unless the school happens to be open. Wood playgrounds are a change of pace, and also, it's a fun playground pretty close to the Crossings. So if you schlep all the way to the Crossings and it just looks completely overrun with children, keep on drivin' over to this one!

Signed: Katie

INDIAN MEADOWS PARK

Glenville, on the way to the YMCA.,

Bathrooms?	Picnic Tables?	Baby Swings?	Snacks?	Fields?	Hiking Trails?	Paved Bike Paths?	Pond/Stream?	Pool/Sprayers?	Basketball?	Tennis?	Surface?
Yes! Plentiful & Lovely	Yes! Plentiful & Lovely	Yes	No	Heck, yeah!	Heck, yeah!	No	No	no	Yes

Weather conditions at this playground are: A mix of sun and shade.

If you live nearby, the overall rating is: Awesome! GO NOW!!!.

If this playground’s a trip for you, the overall rating is: Really fun & worth a trip.

If your child is a “flight risk”, the parking lot is nearby, but it's not terribly busy. There are woods and trails all around, though, so it could be easy to lose someone if you don't see where they're headed .

More information from your friendly reviewer: Tall, terrifying slide that some kid broke his leg on. If you walk through the hiking trails toward the Y, you'll find a stage and other stuff that they use for team building. The kids love to hike and then put on shows.

Signed:

Kelley Park- Creekside Village

39 Ralph Street, Ballston Spa, 12020, http://fansofballstonspa.org/

Bathrooms?	Picnic Tables?	Baby Swings?	Snacks?	Fields?	Hiking Trails?	Paved Bike Paths?	Pond/Stream?	Pool/Sprayers?	Basketball?	Tennis?	Surface?
Just one/limited availability	Yes	Yes	No	Yes	No	No	Yes	No	No	No	Wood Chips

Weather conditions at this playground are: A mix of sun and shade.

If you live nearby, the overall rating is: Awesome! GO NOW!!!.

If this playground’s a trip for you, the overall rating is: Awesome! GO NOW!!!.

If your child is a “flight risk”, It is fenced but not gated. Therefore it is possible for a child to run toward the parking area. But kids can only get out in one location as far as I have noticed. .

More information from your friendly reviewer: The "bathroom" is an outhouse, and I have never used. This playground is unique. It was built by the community, and it isn't the typical local playground. It has an area designed for younger children and a section with more challenging features for older children. Because it has many fun hiding places, it can be difficult to keep an eye on young children. But it is a favorite playground for my kids.

Signed:

Knickerbacker Park

103rd Street & 8th Avenue

Troy, NY, http://troyny.gov/recreation/knickerbackerpark.html

Bathrooms?	Picnic Tables?	Baby Swings?	Snacks?	Fields?	Hiking Trails?	Paved Bike Paths?	Pond/Stream?	Pool/Sprayers?	Basketball?	Tennis?	Surface?
Yes	Nope	Just one/limited availability	Yes	Heck, yeah!	No	Yes	No	No	Yes	Yes	Wood Chips

Weather conditions at this playground are: Sunny all the time.

If you live nearby, the overall rating is: Really fun & worth a trip.

If this playground’s a trip for you, the overall rating is: Fun.

If your child is a “flight risk”, There's a fence that's usually closed..

More information from your friendly reviewer: The playground is great for small kids. Bigger kids might get bored there, but enjoy the ice rink or other sports stuff. Best: It's in the Lansingburgh neighborhood of Troy, so it's generally not too busy.

Worst: It's in the Lansingburgh neighborhood of Troy, so it can get a little sketchy.

Signed: Erin

maria college campus preschool

700 New Scotland Avenue, Albany 12208, on campus of Maria College, behind college buildings,

Bathrooms?	Picnic Tables?	Baby Swings?	Snacks?	Fields?	Hiking Trails?	Paved Bike Paths?	Pond/Stream?	Pool/Sprayers?	Basketball?	Tennis?	Surface?
Nope	Yes	Nope	No	Yes	No	No	No	No	No	No	Grass/dirt

Weather conditions at this playground are: A mix of sun and shade, Too hot on hot days.

If you live nearby, the overall rating is: Awesome! GO NOW!!!.

If this playground’s a trip for you, the overall rating is: Fun.

If your child is a “flight risk”, No Worries! It's fenced & always super-secure.

More information from your friendly reviewer: age appropriate for preschoolers, swings, slides, small rock climbing wall, etc it is fenced in, off the road it is not a "public" playground and those who have attended the Maria college campus preschool currently and past years tend to use it most. if you want to check it out, go now as the preschool will be closing its doors for good at the end of this school year after 44 years!

Signed: amy, karen's sister

Menands Elementary School Playground

19 Wards Lane. Turn onto Ward Lane from Broadway by Mobil and KFC.,

Bathrooms?	Picnic Tables?	Baby Swings?	Snacks?	Fields?	Hiking Trails?	Paved Bike Paths?	Pond/Stream?	Pool/Sprayers?	Basketball?	Tennis?	Surface?
Nope	Just one/limited availability	Just one/limited availability	No	Heck, yeah!	No	Yes	No	No	No	No

Weather conditions at this playground are: A mix of sun and shade.

If you live nearby, the overall rating is: Really fun & worth a trip.

If this playground’s a trip for you, the overall rating is: Fun.

If your child is a “flight risk”, It's so secluded that the kid can't get anywhere, anyway., I'd be careful of the cars--it's sort of near the street/parking lot..

More information from your friendly reviewer: tall hills to roll down by the baseball field!

Signed: SMom

North Bethlehem Park

Russell Rd

Albany, NY 12203

Near the North Bethlehem Fire House on Russell Rd, http://www.townofbethlehem.org/pages/parks/parkNorthBethlehem.asp

Bathrooms?	Picnic Tables?	Baby Swings?	Snacks?	Fields?	Hiking Trails?	Paved Bike Paths?	Pond/Stream?	Pool/Sprayers?	Basketball?	Tennis?	Surface?
Just one/limited availability	Yes	Yes	No	Yes		Yes	No	No	Yes	No	Wood Chips

Weather conditions at this playground are: A mix of sun and shade.

If you live nearby, the overall rating is: Really fun & worth a trip.

If this playground’s a trip for you, the overall rating is: Fun.

If your child is a “flight risk”, It's so secluded that the kid can't get anywhere, anyway..

More information from your friendly reviewer:

Signed:

North Greenbush Library Playground

Behind the North Greenbush Library building in Wynantskill on Douglas St, off Main Ave,

Bathrooms?	Picnic Tables?	Baby Swings?	Snacks?	Fields?	Hiking Trails?	Paved Bike Paths?	Pond/Stream?	Pool/Sprayers?	Basketball?	Tennis?	Surface?
Yes	Yes	Yes	No	Yes	No	No	No	No	Yes	No	Gravel

Weather conditions at this playground are: Sunny all the time, Too hot on hot days, Too cold on cold days.

If you live nearby, the overall rating is: Fun.

If this playground’s a trip for you, the overall rating is: Really not worth your time.

If your child is a “flight risk”, Yikes, I'd be careful of the cars--it's VERY CLOSE to the street/parking lot..

More information from your friendly reviewer: Its a basic playground with one super-structure that has slides of multiple sizes, a suspension bridge to run on, a climbing wall. Its built into a big gravel lot so bring shovels and pails. Bathrooms are in the library when the building is open. There's an adjacent baseball field. Its usually pretty empty since its not a destination playground. A nice place to meet other moms and kids for a playdate. Easy to combine it with a trip to the library. Just bring your own snacks.

Signed:

Nutwood Park (?)

Nutwood Ave by Overland Ave, Colonie NY

(135 Nutwood Ave according to Google Maps),

Bathrooms?	Picnic Tables?	Baby Swings?	Snacks?	Fields?	Hiking Trails?	Paved Bike Paths?	Pond/Stream?	Pool/Sprayers?	Basketball?	Tennis?	Surface?
Nope	Nope	Nope	No	No	No	No	No	No	No	Yes	Grass/dirt

Weather conditions at this playground are: A mix of sun and shade.

If you live nearby, the overall rating is: Fun.

If this playground’s a trip for you, the overall rating is: Mixed, but my kids like it.

If your child is a “flight risk”, Yikes, I'd be careful of the cars--it's VERY CLOSE to the street/parking lot..

More information from your friendly reviewer: One of the few playgrounds in the area that still has a see-saw! Also, metal slides - zoom!

It's a tiny pocket-park playground, but lovely.

Signed: Emma in Albany

Ridgefield Park

At the end of the 700/800 block of Park Ave (Albany). Ridgefield St, Myrtle St, and Partridge Streets border it.,

Bathrooms?	Picnic Tables?	Baby Swings?	Snacks?	Fields?	Hiking Trails?	Paved Bike Paths?	Pond/Stream?	Pool/Sprayers?	Basketball?	Tennis?	Surface?
Just one/limited availability	Yes	Yes	No	Heck, yeah!	No	No	No	Yes	No	Yes	Grass/dirt

Weather conditions at this playground are: A mix of sun and shade.

If you live nearby, the overall rating is: Fun.

If this playground’s a trip for you, the overall rating is: Really not worth your time.

If your child is a “flight risk”, Yikes, I'd be careful of the cars--it's VERY CLOSE to the street/parking lot..

More information from your friendly reviewer: Smalll neighborhood park in the Pine Hills in Albany. Most people who use this park are within walking distance. It's a good park for the under 4 set. The jungle gym is small but manageable for a young toddler. In July and August there are sprinklers for the kids (or adults) to run through.

There are swings, ride-on dinosaurs, and some climbing contraption. There is also a baseball diamond where a team practices and plays for those who like to watch. They also have tennis courts and some parking. It's mainly a playground for those who can walk to it. The kids all tend to know each other since we all live in the neighborhood. We go all the time because it's a very short distance to our house.

Signed: Mandy

River Road Park

Niskayuna, River Road, not sure

Bathrooms?	Picnic Tables?	Baby Swings?	Snacks?	Fields?	Hiking Trails?	Paved Bike Paths?	Pond/Stream?	Pool/Sprayers?	Basketball?	Tennis?	Surface?
Yes	Yes! Plentiful & Lovely	Just one/limited availability	No	Yes	Yes	Yes	Yes	No	Yes	No	Wood Chips

Weather conditions at this playground are: A mix of sun and shade.

If you live nearby, the overall rating is: Really fun & worth a trip.

If this playground’s a trip for you, the overall rating is: Really fun & worth a trip.

If your child is a “flight risk”, It's so secluded that the kid can't get anywhere, anyway..

More information from your friendly reviewer: Great for ages 2-5; has a special needs swing

Signed:

Riverside Park (I've always called it Front Street Park)

Front Street & North Street, Schenectady,

Bathrooms?	Picnic Tables?	Baby Swings?	Snacks?	Fields?	Hiking Trails?	Paved Bike Paths?	Pond/Stream?	Pool/Sprayers?	Basketball?	Tennis?	Surface?
Nope	Nope	Nope	No	No	No	Heck, yeah!	No	Heck, yeah!	No	Heck, yeah!	Grass/dirt

Weather conditions at this playground are: Shady all the time, Windy, Too cold on cold days, Cooler than other places on hot days.

If you live nearby, the overall rating is: Really fun & worth a trip.

If this playground’s a trip for you, the overall rating is: Mixed, but my kids like it.

If your child is a “flight risk”, It's pretty close to the water--does (s)he know how to swim?.

More information from your friendly reviewer: This is an old playground with a nice variety including some "old school" big kid climbers. This park is right along the river, so the best part about it is that it's great for transportation enthusiasts. On a good day you can see boats along the river, trains on the bridge, and airplanes about to land at Schenectady airport. The pool isn't right next to the playground, but it's a very short walk. It's a public pool run by the Y (assuming there's funding this year!) It's a great hot-day playground. If you like to play tennis, the court is right next to the playground. Sometimes kids will bike or scooter there, too.

Signed: Katie

Rosemont Park

Rosemont Avenue, Albany, NY, Don't

Bathrooms?	Picnic Tables?	Baby Swings?	Snacks?	Fields?	Hiking Trails?	Paved Bike Paths?	Pond/Stream?	Pool/Sprayers?	Basketball?	Tennis?	Surface?
Just one/limited availability	Yes	Yes	No	Heck, yeah!	No	No	No	Heck, yeah!	Heck, yeah!	Heck, yeah!

Weather conditions at this playground are: A mix of sun and shade, Windy.

If you live nearby, the overall rating is: Really fun & worth a trip.

If this playground’s a trip for you, the overall rating is: Fun.

If your child is a “flight risk”, I'd be careful of the cars--it's sort of near the street/parking lot..

More information from your friendly reviewer: There is a merry go round, several slides, a splash pad in the summer, and several large play structures. For the older kids, there are basketball courts and tennis courts. Best thing--close by and large variety of equipment. Also, the splash pad is major fun. Worst is that it's a bit spread out. Play structures are far apart. Thought that can be good for lots of running around. Also, it's one of the few parks in the area I've seen that has a merry go round.

Signed: Jukeybee

Rosemont Park

92 Rosemont in albany - near western and brevator,

Bathrooms?	Picnic Tables?	Baby Swings?	Snacks?	Fields?	Hiking Trails?	Paved Bike Paths?	Pond/Stream?	Pool/Sprayers?	Basketball?	Tennis?	Surface?
Nope	Yes	Yes	No	Heck, yeah!	No	No	No	Yes	Heck, yeah!	Heck, yeah!	Wood Chips

Weather conditions at this playground are: A mix of sun and shade.

If you live nearby, the overall rating is: Really fun & worth a trip.

If this playground’s a trip for you, the overall rating is: Fun.

If your child is a “flight risk”, I'd be careful of the cars--it's sort of near the street/parking lot., there is a fence on the busier Brevator side of the park.

More information from your friendly reviewer: has the big toddler/special needs swings it's open grassy area allows free play and the playground equipment is slightly spread out - more opportunities to run off energy. Best thing is that the city has been adding new features over the last 6 mos. worst - only has street parking (no lot)

Signed: busy preschooler's mom

Rosendale Elementary

2445 Rosendale Road, Niskayuna,

Bathrooms?	Picnic Tables?	Baby Swings?	Snacks?	Fields?	Hiking Trails?	Paved Bike Paths?	Pond/Stream?	Pool/Sprayers?	Basketball?	Tennis?	Surface?
Nope	Yes! Plentiful & Lovely	Yes	No	Yes	Yes	No	No	No	No	Heck, yeah!	Wood Chips

Weather conditions at this playground are: A mix of sun and shade.

If you live nearby, the overall rating is: Awesome! GO NOW!!!.

If this playground’s a trip for you, the overall rating is: Really fun & worth a trip.

If your child is a “flight risk”, It's near the parking lot, but the parking lot's generally not too busy..

More information from your friendly reviewer: This playground is in great shape....lots of fun things for the kids to climb on, including a small rock wall. It's large enough for the big kids to enjoy, but has some nice features for the little ones too. --Comment from Jen O. Bathrooms at River Road There are swings for children with disabilities. -- Jen O. This is a great playground! Climbing walls and all sorts of slides, tunnels and climbing equipment as well as swings. Also there is a great shaded pavilion in the middle with 4 picnic tables so you can watch the kids play all around you. There is plenty of parking along the side. Also, if you are up to it there is a short trail that leads you to the river road park which is a great little park too (with lots of other amenities). --Michelle There is a covered picnic area that is in the middle of the playground. It's nice because you can sit and relax and see the kids from almost anywhere on the playground. --Jen O. The best for me is the pavilion with shade for hot sunny days. You can bring a snack or lunch and eat in the shade and then go on playing. Also really like the trail to the other park. We usually do that and get a little exercise. Plenty of fields to run around in too. It is next to a parking lot...but if you have a runner all the other directions are safe with lots of fields. It's not on the street or anything which is nice. --Michelle

Signed: Jen O.

Schodack Island State Park

1 Schodack Way

P.O. Box 7

Schodack Landing, NY 12156

Phone: (518) 732-0187, http://nysparks.state.ny.us/parks/146/details.aspx

Bathrooms?	Picnic Tables?	Baby Swings?	Snacks?	Fields?	Hiking Trails?	Paved Bike Paths?	Pond/Stream?	Pool/Sprayers?	Basketball?	Tennis?	Surface?
Yes! Plentiful & Lovely	Yes	Nope	Yes	Yes	Yes	Yes	No	No	No	No	Wood Chips

Weather conditions at this playground are: Sunny all the time.

If you live nearby, the overall rating is: Awesome! GO NOW!!!.

If this playground’s a trip for you, the overall rating is: Awesome! GO NOW!!!.

If your child is a “flight risk”, I'd be careful of the cars--it's sort of near the street/parking lot., close to parking lot, but it's usually not a busy one. There's time to rescue..

More information from your friendly reviewer: There's no swings, but honestly I like it that way. I want my kids to run around and get tired, not to be on a swing the whole time with me having to push them. ;-) There's no pond, but there is the Hudson River! The boat launch is right there and you can watch the boats sail the Hudson. It's a beautiful view. The Hudson River. It's so nice to be so close and see all the boats. If you're lucky and catch a boat docking the kids usually love it! The view really is just beautiful. But the playground is not right next to the river so you don't have to worry about kids running off and drowning. You have to cross the parking lot and walk to get to it.

Signed: Jedimama

Shen Elementary Schools

Route 146

Clifton Park NY 12065

Its down in the 600s ,

Bathrooms?	Picnic Tables?	Baby Swings?	Snacks?	Fields?	Hiking Trails?	Paved Bike Paths?	Pond/Stream?	Pool/Sprayers?	Basketball?	Tennis?	Surface?
Nope	Yes	Nope	No	Yes	No	No	No	No	Yes	No	a mix of gravel and dirt

Weather conditions at this playground are: A mix of sun and shade.

If you live nearby, the overall rating is: Really fun & worth a trip.

If this playground’s a trip for you, the overall rating is: Fun.

If your child is a “flight risk”, fence from main roads but a distance away from cars.

More information from your friendly reviewer: Lots of climbing equipment for school age kids. Big slides and room to run. The biggest plus for the Shen campus playgrounds is that 4 elementary schools are on the main campus. All the playgrounds are different and you can walk to each of them. They are even close (a minute in car) to the commons and bathrooms! The playgrounds are a bit older but if your kid/s get bored of the same thing you can always switch it up with a short walk around to a different playground!

Signed: Meghan

Shenantaha Creek Park

Eastline Road in Malta, http://www.malta-town.org/cit-e-access/webpage.cfm?TID=44&TPID=5150

Bathrooms?	Picnic Tables?	Baby Swings?	Snacks?	Fields?	Hiking Trails?	Paved Bike Paths?	Pond/Stream?	Pool/Sprayers?	Basketball?	Tennis?	Surface?
Yes	Yes! Plentiful & Lovely	Yes	No	Heck, yeah!	Heck, yeah!	Heck, yeah!	Yes	No	Heck, yeah!	Heck, yeah!	Wood Chips

Weather conditions at this playground are: A mix of sun and shade.

If you live nearby, the overall rating is: Really fun & worth a trip.

If this playground’s a trip for you, the overall rating is: Really fun & worth a trip.

If your child is a “flight risk”, It's pretty open so you will be able to see where your child went and it's set way back from any road..

More information from your friendly reviewer: Many, many picnic tables. Two large pavilions, barbeque grills, tennis and basketball courts, bike path. Lots of room to run around and trails to explore. We had our son's first birthday party here and it was a huge success. Equipment is in good shape and there is lots of mulch for padding around the equipment. There is a playset for toddlers and one for older kids as well. The wide open spaces for running around, mixed with lots of trees for shade, plus nature trails to explore AND a playground with available picnic tables and bathrooms make this one of our favorite places to go. Shenantaha Creek park can keep a toddler entertained for a good long time!

Signed: Rachael

Tawasentha Park

Route 146 in Guilderland., http://www.townofguilderland.org/Pages/GuilderlandNY_Recreation/Tawasentha%20Park%20Description

Bathrooms?	Picnic Tables?	Baby Swings?	Snacks?	Fields?	Hiking Trails?	Paved Bike Paths?	Pond/Stream?	Pool/Sprayers?	Basketball?	Tennis?	Surface?
Yes	Yes! Plentiful & Lovely	Yes! Plentiful & Lovely	No	Yes	Heck, yeah!	Yes	Heck, yeah!	Yes	Heck, yeah!	No	Sand

Weather conditions at this playground are: Shady all the time.

If you live nearby, the overall rating is: Really fun & worth a trip.

If this playground’s a trip for you, the overall rating is: Really fun & worth a trip.

If your child is a “flight risk”, I'd be careful of the cars--it's sort of near the street/parking lot., I'd be careful but it would take a lot of running for the child to get to the parking lot from the playground..

More information from your friendly reviewer: they have a bigger playground for the bigger kids and smaller one for the toddlers. Also, sand everywhere with chairs for the parents to sit. We love the playground, there's a volleyball net, bridge to look at the pond, and nature hikes, baseball field.

Signed: Betty

; Another reviewer said: The sandy surface provides lots of opportunity for digging and building. Large and small climbing areas makes it for fun for multiple age children. A neat walking path along the creek is a great side adventure. You could spend the whole day here if you are truly an outdoor enthusiast. Playground is fun, but the whole park is just beautiful. Lots of picnic areas, sand volleyball courts, pavillion for shelter, etc. Just don't forget the sand toys and to shake out the kids shoes before you get back in the car!!

Signed: MomOfThree

Thacher State Park

This large playground is located at Pear Orchard pavilion in Thacher State Park. It's vivid yellow structure can be seen from the main road (Route 157). Pear Orchard area is close to the Indian Ladder Trailhead and the Park Office building., http://www.nysparks.com/parks/128/details.aspx

Bathrooms?	Picnic Tables?	Baby Swings?	Snacks?	Fields?	Hiking Trails?	Paved Bike Paths?	Pond/Stream?	Pool/Sprayers?	Basketball?	Tennis?	Surface?
Yes	Yes	Nope	No	Yes	Yes	No	No	No	Yes	No	Shredded recycled tires

Weather conditions at this playground are: Sunny all the time, Windy, Cooler than other places on hot days.

If you live nearby, the overall rating is: Fun.

If this playground’s a trip for you, the overall rating is: Fun.

If your child is a “flight risk”, I'd be careful of the cars--it's sort of near the street/parking lot..

More information from your friendly reviewer: This playground has four slides, plastic climbing features with hand and footholds, monkey rings (bars), sloped climbing surfaces, musical instruments, two pretty panels with graphic cutouts of insects and a globe, angled panels placed overhead to provide some shade. A child could span the entire length of the playground without touching the ground. This new playground is situated close to the large Pear Orchard pavilion. There are plenty of picnic tables, several benches and BBQ pits close by. Bathrooms are available within a short walking distance.

**It's worth noting that there is another smaller playground located just a couple hundred yards away from Pear Orchard. This mostly wooden structure is lower to the ground, has a wide low ramp for ease of accessibility, and includes 4 small sides, 2 climbing features, mulched surface, two benches and two swings (one regular, one baby). This is a nice little play area for toddlers and preschoolers. This playground is new and excellent condition. It has many features for older children to test their balance, strength and coordination. The overal height is quite high, so it's best for older children or younger children with close supervision.

***The smaller playground (briefly described above) is best for younger children as it's shorter overall, with smaller features and a baby swing.

Signed: ThacherParkEmployee/MomOfToddler

Thacher State Park Zip Line

THis new feature is located at the Horseshoe II (two) picnic area. This can be found by driving into the 'main' entrance of the park, by the park office and the Indian Ladder trailhead/parking area. Drive straight back from the main gate and follow signs for Horseshoe II., http://www.nysparks.com/parks/128/details.aspx

Bathrooms?	Picnic Tables?	Baby Swings?	Snacks?	Fields?	Hiking Trails?	Paved Bike Paths?	Pond/Stream?	Pool/Sprayers?	Basketball?	Tennis?	Surface?
Yes	Yes	Nope	No	Yes	Yes	Yes	No	No	No	No	Wood Chips

Weather conditions at this playground are: A mix of sun and shade, Sheltered from the wind, Cooler than other places on hot days.

If you live nearby, the overall rating is: Fun.

If this playground’s a trip for you, the overall rating is: Fun.

If your child is a “flight risk”, I'd be careful of the cars--it's sort of near the street/parking lot..

More information from your friendly reviewer: Includes 2-80 foot zip lines, three realistic boulders with rope climbing ladders strung in between. The zip line seats are easily accessed via a ramp leading up to a platform. take a thrilling, fun but safe ride on the lines, pull back and do it again! located against the scenic backdrop of Thacher Park, this is a fun attraction for young and old. Please note that the zip lines aren't very high off the ground, so they are very safe, but still quite enjoyable. This new playground is worth a visit simply based on it's location in beautiful Thacher Park. There's plenty to see and do on a visit to the park, so pack a lunch and bring the family to enjoy your park!

If there's one downfall, it's how hidden away this playground feature is. It's not visible from the main road, and takes a few minutes to locate, even if you know it's there.

Signed: ThacherParkEmployee/MomOfToddler

The Crossings of Colonie

Albany Shaker Road ,

Bathrooms?	Picnic Tables?	Baby Swings?	Snacks?	Fields?	Hiking Trails?	Paved Bike Paths?	Pond/Stream?	Pool/Sprayers?	Basketball?	Tennis?	Surface?
Yes	Yes	Yes	Heck, yeah!	Heck, yeah!	Heck, yeah!	Heck, yeah!	Heck, yeah!	No	No	No	That new spongy playground surface stuff

Weather conditions at this playground are: Sunny all the time.

If you live nearby, the overall rating is: Awesome! GO NOW!!!.

If this playground’s a trip for you, the overall rating is: Awesome! GO NOW!!!.

If your child is a “flight risk”, I'd be careful of the cars--it's sort of near the street/parking lot.

More information from your friendly reviewer: There is also a maze. It has something for everyone. The only thing I don't like is that the gate is open, and the playground part of the park is right next to the parking lot.

Signed:

Thompson's Lake Campground playground

Located in Thompson's Lake campground, close to the swimming beach, a short walk to Thacher Nature Center. , http://nysparks.com/parks/99/details.aspx

Bathrooms?	Picnic Tables?	Baby Swings?	Snacks?	Fields?	Hiking Trails?	Paved Bike Paths?	Pond/Stream?	Pool/Sprayers?	Basketball?	Tennis?	Surface?
Yes	Yes	Nope	No	Yes	Yes	Yes	Yes	No	No	No	Wood Chips

Weather conditions at this playground are: Sunny all the time, Nice and warm on cooler days.

If you live nearby, the overall rating is: Fun.

If this playground’s a trip for you, the overall rating is: Really fun & worth a trip.

If your child is a “flight risk”, It's pretty close to the water--does (s)he know how to swim?.

More information from your friendly reviewer: This tall playground features 4 slides, 5 climbing features (3 metal and 2 plastic), lots of steps and 1 tunnel. Scenic views of Thompson's Lake, equipment is in excellent condition and is well-maintained. This playground is a great destination for families because of the variety of amentities that can be found in the campground. in addition to this lovely playground, you get scenic views of the lake, swimming at the beach, and close proximity to Thacher Nature Center (a short walk cutting through the woods), and a short drive to Thacher Park.

Signed: ThacherParkEmployee/MomOfToddler

Town of Bethlehem Elm Ave Park

Elm Ave, Delmar, ny 12054,

Bathrooms?	Picnic Tables?	Baby Swings?	Snacks?	Fields?	Hiking Trails?	Paved Bike Paths?	Pond/Stream?	Pool/Sprayers?	Basketball?	Tennis?	Surface?
Just one/limited availability	Just one/limited availability	Yes	No	Heck, yeah!	Heck, yeah!	Heck, yeah!	No	Heck, yeah!	Heck, yeah!	Heck, yeah!	Wood Chips

Weather conditions at this playground are: A mix of sun and shade.

If you live nearby, the overall rating is: Really fun & worth a trip.

If this playground’s a trip for you, the overall rating is: Mixed, but my kids like it.

If your child is a “flight risk”, It's so secluded that the kid can't get anywhere, anyway..

More information from your friendly reviewer: THe Elm Ave playground is an older large, wooden structure. Lots of climbing opportunities! My son loves it, but I would love for the Town of Bethlehem to build a newer style playground. Of course, the pool area is the best thing in Delmar and it completely makes up for the outdated playground. Overall, the Elm Ave park is awesome. The fields are plentiful and the hiking trail is perfect for preschoolers. We LOVE the pool and spend every warm day there in the summer. It truly is one of the best parts of living in Delmar.

Signed: K

Turtle Town at Shaker Road Elementary

When facing the school, it is opposite the Imagination Station, to the right of the school. , N/a

Bathrooms?	Picnic Tables?	Baby Swings?	Snacks?	Fields?	Hiking Trails?	Paved Bike Paths?	Pond/Stream?	Pool/Sprayers?	Basketball?	Tennis?	Surface?
Nope	Nope	Nope	No	Yes	No	No	No	No	No	No	That new spongy playground surface stuff

Weather conditions at this playground are: Sunny all the time.

If you live nearby, the overall rating is: Really fun & worth a trip.

If this playground’s a trip for you, the overall rating is: Really not worth your time.

If your child is a “flight risk”, No Worries! It's fenced & always super-secure.

More information from your friendly reviewer: Tire chips provide cushioning, kids love the dome! Great low-key playground, benches available for parents. Its a couple of years old, never crowded!

Signed:

Vale Park

Franklin Street & Nott Terrace, Schenectady, http://www.valepark.org/

Bathrooms?	Picnic Tables?	Baby Swings?	Snacks?	Fields?	Hiking Trails?	Paved Bike Paths?	Pond/Stream?	Pool/Sprayers?	Basketball?	Tennis?	Surface?
Nope	Yes! Plentiful & Lovely	Nope	No	No	Heck, yeah!	No	Yes	No	No	No	Wood Chips

Weather conditions at this playground are: A mix of sun and shade, Cooler than other places on hot days.

If you live nearby, the overall rating is: Really fun & worth a trip.

If this playground’s a trip for you, the overall rating is: Fun.

If your child is a “flight risk”, It's so secluded that the kid can't get anywhere, anyway..

More information from your friendly reviewer: The equipment is pretty new. There are one or two places where a toddler could fall far, so if you have someone whose mobile & unsteady, check it out first. There's a large pavilion with picnic tables. This is a huge, woodsy park in the heart of Schenectady, and it's also connected to a cemetery, so it's really interesting for a walk. People fish in the stream, although if you want to avoid the water, it won't be obvious unless you leave the playground area to take a hike. This playground is not well-known, and it's fun and in a BEAUTIFUL setting. The one drawback (besides the lack of bathrooms) is that it's both remote-ish and in the middle of the city, so it can feel unsafe if you're on your own. This is one I go to when a couple of moms are meeting up together.

Signed: Katie

Voorheesville Elementary School

Across from Smitty's Tavern on Maple Avenue in Voorheesville, right on your way to Indian Ladder farms. When you make the right hand turn towards the apple orchards the school is directly on your left. Park in the visitor's lot, cross the covered bridge over the creek and you will see the playground!, no

Bathrooms?	Picnic Tables?	Baby Swings?	Snacks?	Fields?	Hiking Trails?	Paved Bike Paths?	Pond/Stream?	Pool/Sprayers?	Basketball?	Tennis?	Surface?
Yes	Yes	Yes	No	Heck, yeah!	No	Yes	Heck, yeah!	No	Heck, yeah!	No

Weather conditions at this playground are: A mix of sun and shade.

If you live nearby, the overall rating is: Awesome! GO NOW!!!.

If this playground’s a trip for you, the overall rating is: Awesome! GO NOW!!!.

If your child is a “flight risk”, It's so secluded that the kid can't get anywhere, anyway..

More information from your friendly reviewer: This playground offers something for every age. It is wheelchair accessible. There a swings for infants, special needs children and typical children. There are at least 3 slides, 2 twisty (one is covered), and two straight slides. There are tire ladders as well as a tightrope to walk on. There are many turrets for a great game of hide and go seek. There are soccer fields, a gazebo, and a basketball court. Obviusly, the drawback here is that it is at a public school and only "available" during non school hours. So worht it though!!! I love that it is so large and there are things for all ages and abilities. My daughter always finds other children to play with there. It is great that someone who may be of a higher skill level than my daughter, she is 3, can do there own "high level" task while still playing with my daughter. Every thing is connected so the children can play the who can go the furthest without touching the gravel game!!!

Signed: Irishmom to APP

Washington Park

Washington Park, Albany, NY, http://www.albany.com/HotSpot_Washington-Park.cfm

Bathrooms?	Picnic Tables?	Baby Swings?	Snacks?	Fields?	Hiking Trails?	Paved Bike Paths?	Pond/Stream?	Pool/Sprayers?	Basketball?	Tennis?	Surface?
Yes! Plentiful & Lovely	Just one/limited availability	Yes	No	Yes	No	Heck, yeah!	Heck, yeah!	No		Yes	Wood Chips

Weather conditions at this playground are: Sunny all the time, Windy.

If you live nearby, the overall rating is: Really fun & worth a trip.

If this playground’s a trip for you, the overall rating is: Really fun & worth a trip.

If your child is a “flight risk”, Yikes, I'd be careful of the cars--it's VERY CLOSE to the street/parking lot..

More information from your friendly reviewer: There's a new section as well as more "old school" metal equipment over grass. Pretty statues and big amphitheatre. Tennis courts aren't close to the playground at all. People in the 'burbs shy away from this playground, but it's frequently easy to park, and it's a worthwhile stop if you're nearby, and it's definitely worth a trip if something special is going on, like when the tulips are out or when there's a show at the Park Playhouse.

Signed: Katie

Waterford Halfmoon School Playground

Guideboard Road Waterford,

Bathrooms?	Picnic Tables?	Baby Swings?	Snacks?	Fields?	Hiking Trails?	Paved Bike Paths?	Pond/Stream?	Pool/Sprayers?	Basketball?	Tennis?	Surface?
Nope	Just one/limited availability	Just one/limited availability	No	No	No	No	No	No	No	No	Wood Chips

Weather conditions at this playground are: Sunny all the time.

If you live nearby, the overall rating is: Really fun & worth a trip.

If this playground’s a trip for you, the overall rating is: Fun.

If your child is a “flight risk”, I'd be careful of the cars--it's sort of near the street/parking lot..

More information from your friendly reviewer: Giant Spider Web, Tire swings, Wooden center section for climbing and slides Worth a look if you are over that way Giant Spider Web/No bathrooms

Signed: "Spider Web Park"

Waterford Swimming Pool Playground

36 Ballston St, Waterford NY 12188,

Bathrooms?	Picnic Tables?	Baby Swings?	Snacks?	Fields?	Hiking Trails?	Paved Bike Paths?	Pond/Stream?	Pool/Sprayers?	Basketball?	Tennis?	Surface?
Yes	Yes	Yes	Yes	No	No	No	No	Heck, yeah!	No	No	Grass/dirt

Weather conditions at this playground are: A mix of sun and shade, Cooler than other places on hot days.

If you live nearby, the overall rating is: Awesome! GO NOW!!!.

If this playground’s a trip for you, the overall rating is: Fun.

If your child is a “flight risk”, There's a fence that's usually closed..

More information from your friendly reviewer: The dish-pool and sprayers are amazing. Never over-crowded (this park is a hidden gem!) And often shady. Definitely the abundance of shady picnic-grass and tables surrounding the playground and splashing pool. You can see every corner of the park no matter where you're sitting. It feels super safe.

Signed: PickwickAli

Whitehall Park at Albany School of Humanities

124 Whitehall Road, Albany, New York 12209, http://albanyny.gov/_files/Recreation_facilities.pdf

Bathrooms?	Picnic Tables?	Baby Swings?	Snacks?	Fields?	Hiking Trails?	Paved Bike Paths?	Pond/Stream?	Pool/Sprayers?	Basketball?	Tennis?	Surface?
Nope	Just one/limited availability	Yes	No	Heck, yeah!	No	No	No	No	Yes	No	Grass/dirt

Weather conditions at this playground are: Sunny all the time.

If you live nearby, the overall rating is: Fun.

If this playground’s a trip for you, the overall rating is: Really not worth your time.

If your child is a “flight risk”, It's so secluded that the kid can't get anywhere, anyway..

More information from your friendly reviewer: This playground also has special needs swings. It has two sets of playgrounds, one for schoolage and one more for preschool age. I think it's a great neighborhood playground that is best on non-school days or after-school hours. I do wish there was a bathroom or portapotty or more benches/tables.

Signed: AlbanyMommy

Woodlawn Elementary Playground

Wells Avenue, Schenectady,

Bathrooms?	Picnic Tables?	Baby Swings?	Snacks?	Fields?	Hiking Trails?	Paved Bike Paths?	Pond/Stream?	Pool/Sprayers?	Basketball?	Tennis?	Surface?
Nope	Nope	Just one/limited availability	No	Heck, yeah!	Heck, yeah!	Yes		No	Yes	No	Wood Chips

Weather conditions at this playground are: A mix of sun and shade.

If you live nearby, the overall rating is: Awesome! GO NOW!!!.

If this playground’s a trip for you, the overall rating is: Fun.

If your child is a “flight risk”, Fairly secluded, one side is a quiet residential street.

More information from your friendly reviewer: Great climbing web, lots of swings, monkey bars The school is right next to the Woodlawn preserve. A beautiful natural setting with lots of things to get the kids nice and tired! Not far from Mohawk Commons, McDonald's, IHOP and a nice ice cream place called Bumpy's on State Street!

Because of the nature preserve, it can get buggy, so bring the insect repellant!

Signed: Dani

Zoller Elementary School

1880 Lancaster Street, Schenectady, http://www.schenectady.k12.ny.us/zoller_elementary_school/index.htm

Bathrooms?	Picnic Tables?	Baby Swings?	Snacks?	Fields?	Hiking Trails?	Paved Bike Paths?	Pond/Stream?	Pool/Sprayers?	Basketball?	Tennis?	Surface?
Just one/limited availability	Yes	Nope	No	Yes	No	No	No	No	Heck, yeah!	No	Wood Chips

Weather conditions at this playground are: Sunny all the time, Picnic tables are in shade..

If you live nearby, the overall rating is: Awesome! GO NOW!!!.

If this playground’s a trip for you, the overall rating is: Fun.

If your child is a “flight risk”, It's surrounded by fields and the streets are quiet, anyway..

More information from your friendly reviewer: There are a couple of unusual hand-pump style swings. Lots of ramps/bridges/slides. It's an elementary school, so you have to go when school's not in session, and there's only a bathroom available if the school happens to be open. This is in a nice, quiet neighborhood, so it could piggyback onto a little bike ride. This is a nice playground that's usually pretty quiet.

Signed: Katie