Adventure Playground

Managed separately from the area's neighborhood and community parks, Adventure Playground is one of three so-called "special facilities" owned by the City of Irvine and operated by its Community Services staff. The other two are "Central Bark" for dog fanciers and the Turtle Rock Nature Center, a five-acre preserve focused on environmental learning. The Adventure Playground is located in University Community Park, and it was opened primarily to serve the community's parents and their youngsters.

Adventure Playground gives children the opportunity for real "down to earth" fun as in getting dirty. Its two most popular features are a waterslide and a mud pit. There are also miniature forts that can be used for hide-and-seek and role playing games. Seating is available for parents to watch their young adventurers as they play.

Until 2010, Adventure Playground was open all year round, even though it has been most popular during the summer months when school is out and playing in water and mud offers a great way to cool off. Reservations could be made for groups, and the venue was often used for birthday parties and special events. Various classes have been offered here, too.

Following the resumption of school in the fall, however, Adventure Playground has been closed. It is expected to reopen in April of 2011. The address is 1 Beech Tree Lane, California 92612-2200.