Columbia Parks & Playgrounds :: Woodland Park

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There are many parks and playgrounds in the Midlands, especially in the downtown area. As a stay-at-home mom with a quest to get my little one out of the house and enjoying activities around town as much as possible, we’ve always made a point to visit different playgrounds in the area. One of our favorites is Woodland Park.

Location

Address: 6505 Olde Knight Pkwy, Columbia, SC 29209

Nestled in the Old Woodlands subdivision off Garner’s Ferry Road near Meadowfield Elementary School, this playground is located close to Target in the Shoppes of Woodhill right off I-77 on exit 9A. It’s about a 15-minute drive from the SC State House.

Cost: Free and open to the public

Features

  • Playground structures
  • Slides
  • Separate jungle gym
  • Swings (including baby swing/toddler swings)
  • Large open grassy field
  • Walking trail
  • Lots of trees
  • Cedar chips
  • Free little library
  • Picnic tables
  • Benches
  • Shaded areas

What We Love About It

One of my favorite things about Woodland Park is the wide open spaces! If your child gets tired of playing on the playground equipment, there is plenty of open grassy space to throw a frisbee, kick a ball, or just run around. And, there’s a free little library

In addition to the open grassy area, there is another open area with lots of trees and shade. This is perfect for hide and go seek, nerf guns, and exploring all nature has to offer. Plus, this tree area has a walking trail around it, which is great for getting in your steps or helping your child ride their bike.

Because the playground is tucked away in a neighborhood, it’s relatively quiet. And while it does sit next to a road and is not fenced in, the playground sits far enough away from the road that your little ones won’t dart away from you so fast you can’t catch them.

Also, the playground equipment is varied enough for different ages from toddlers and up. Some of the structures are definitely more suited for older kids, like the monkey bars and jungle gym (but with a little boost from an adult, little ones can enjoy these too). Toddlers can enjoy smaller, more age-appropriate equipment like a smaller slide, tunnel, toddler swings, and more. 

Also, there are usually plenty of kids there, so you never really have to worry about there not being someone to play with. It’s not uncommon to see many kids playing there after school, especially since it’s right beside Meadowfield Elementary and right down the road from Hammond. The neighborhood has lots of children, so you’ll see little ones from many of the local area schools. It’s a great place to meet new friends, run into old ones, host birthday parties, and so much more!

Speaking of birthday parties, there are picnic tables, which are available on a first-come, first-served basis at no cost. I’ve even seen some families bring their own tables to ensure their party isn’t spoiled by not having a spot. And, there are several benches sprinkled throughout, so you don’t have to stand the entire time you’re watching your child.

There is no lack of things to do and see at Woodland Park. If you’re in the area or looking for something to do around town with the kids, we can’t recommend this playground enough. Hope you enjoy it as much as we do! 

Have you been to Woodland Park? What do you love best about it?

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