Clarks Creek Community Park

I'm so glad that playgrounds are open again. I missed them. I missed what they represent. It's such a gift to be able to take kids to a safe, open play space where they can move their muscles, meet and make friends and enjoy fresh air and creative, screen-free fun. (I also enjoy the chance to run into and chat with grown-up friends, too). 

Long before the pandemic shut everything down, we discovered Clarks Creek Community Park and loved it. Located just under 20 minutes north of uptown, this park is exciting for a number of reasons. 

We actually stumbled on it when we visited Clarks Creek Nature Preserve (another fun discovery!), which is right across the street, for the first time. I would recommend hitting both destinations if you take a trip.

Here's what you'll find at Clarks Creek Community Park:

Trails: There are both natural-surface walking trails and paved paths good for scooters and strollers.

Courts: This park is home to a large complex of both pickleball and basketball courts.

Dog parks: There are large, spacious, fenced dog parks for both large and small breeds.

Playground: Probably our favorite equipment is the in-ground slides built into the wall bordering the playground space. There's also a climbing web, swing sets and a see-saw.

Sprayground: Open during summer months (in non-pandemic times), this new, sprawling water play area could keep littles content for hours.

You'll also find restroom facilities, an outdoor picnic shelter and a large community garden. Here's a park map. 

We haven't been back to Clarks Creek Community Park since pandemic restrictions have been lifted, but it remains high on our list for the next time we get a chance.

How to get there:
Clarks Creek Community Park is located at 5435 Hucks Rd, Charlotte, NC 28269.

Don't forget to pack:

• Comfortable shoes: Sneakers will do
• Hats, sunglasses and sunscreen: The park is not heavily shaded
• Snacks and water: You can refill water at the restroom facilities
• Toys: Pickleball equipment, basketball or rolling riding toys
• Swim stuff: If you're visiting when the sprayground is operational