This pilot project is supported by an emerging body of research strongly suggesting that children are growing up disconnected from nature. This disconnect can have alarming impacts – more time in front of screens and monitors, increased depression, increasing obesity and diabetes, and near-sightedness.

Nature-based play can provide important connections for children and adults to the natural environment. Playing in natural environments improves language skills and collaboration; improves imagination and creativity; supports positive social development; and enhances balance, agility, and overall health.

Westmoreland Park’s Natural Play Area features include:

Creek Mound – a concrete stream channel with willow tunnels, water pumps, mazes where children can manipulate the water’s flow, and a large sand play area.

Forest Mound – features logs tilted at varying inclines for climbing and adventure, a hill slide build on a natural embankment, and boulder scrambles.

Mountain Mound – made of natural boulders and logs featuring varying degrees of difficulty, for climbing, balancing and unstructured play.

Log Climbers – log segment sculptures for climbing; this feature calls to mind tree climbing.

Creative Building – building frames for creative play with “loose parts”, such as branches, pinecones, etc., for building forts, tents, etc.

Crystal Springs Interpretive Markers – inspired by the recently restored namesake creek that runs through the park. Basalt column stones are engraved with poetic phrases, telling the story of Crystal Springs.

Enchanted Forest – a grove of Giant Sequoia trees serves as the centerpiece of an area for free and imaginative play.

Grassy picnic area – grassy mounds for sitting and picnicking

Park benches – log benches and standard park benches.

Split rail fencing – low fencing to help keep younger children within the boundaries of the play area.