Less than 20 minutes from DIA (Denver International Airport), you will be immersed in nature at First Creek Park. The term nature play is given when “people can incorporate the surrounding landscape and vegetation to bring nature to children’s daily outdoor play and learning environments” according to the National Wildlife Federation. Instead of the typical plastic, colorful playgrounds, at natural-themed parks you’ll find giant logs to balance on, boulders to climb over and streams to jump across. There is often still playground equipment, however, it doesn’t feel like you’re at an actual playground.
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Address: 18874 Elmendorf Dr, Denver, CO 80249
Bathroom: No bathroom available.
Shade: Yes! There are many large shade trees throughout First Creek Park.
Surface: Some wood chips but mostly grass and gravel paths.
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Age Recommendations: Any age can find ways to enjoy the natural surroundings, however, the playground equipment and water nearby makes me lean toward ages 4 and up.
Swings: There are two large disc-shaped net swings that you see immediately when arriving.
Water Features: There is a creek in the “Exploration Play Zone”. Note that water levels will change throughout the year.
Adventure and exploration, the perfect words to describe the First Creek Exploration Play Zone in the eyes of your child. Walk along the path, cross the creek, and check out the local plants, insects and wildlife. It brings so much peace to separate from our screens and really soak up the nature around us!
Are you looking for another playground in the DIA/North Aurora area? Check out High Prairie Park!
We love these informational pillars tucked into the woods behind the play equipment!
Plan to spend a couple hours at this park by bringing a picnic and taking time to learn more about nature.
Do your kids love to be out playing in this more natural type of park? Check out other great nature-themed playgrounds at https://slidesandsunshine.com/category/parks/park-type/nature-play-area/
Thanks for joining us at Slides & Sunshine. Now it’s time to get out there and PLAY!
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I adore spending time in nature and opening new and unusual places to myself. I absorb a special atmosphere of nature and recharge. Lately I have been spending a lot of time with my family and we have been walking in some parks for a long time. I have a little brother and he is so active. He constantly wants to climb somewhere. It is so cool that there is such an incredible First Greek Park which has unique features and stands out from other ordinary parks. I feel that my brother’s playing will be really varied and entertaining. I think walking in the fresh air is always wonderful, especially when you can make it fascinating and bring a little variety in your strolls.