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Barbecue and playgrounds

You want to enjoy your barbecue while keeping an eye on the kids, and you shouldn't have to choose between the two.

Based on 776 Opinions
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Updated May 2026
01
Robert E. Ryan Community Park image 1
Robert E. Ryan Community Park image 2
Robert E. Ryan Community Park image 3
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Park offers scenic ocean views and lush green lawns with ample open space for activities. Atmosphere stays peaceful and calm, ideal for families and quiet outings. Multiple playgrounds cater to children of different ages, and the area includes picnic spots with views of the play areas.

Ample space and well-maintained grounds make it easy to set up a barbecue. The spot offers a peaceful outdoor setting ideal for enjoying time with family and friends.

Three playgrounds offer equipment for different ages, including swings and slides. A smaller play area suits little kids, and the whole space stays clean and well-maintained.

People are saying

"The park's ocean views are beautiful and peaceful."

"I found the playground equipment here to be nice for the kids."

"It's a peaceful spot to barbecue and enjoy the outdoors."

Good to know

1

There is free parking available at the park.

2

The park has ramps for people with disabilities.

3

The park is well-maintained and has ample space for picnics and barbecues.

02
Hellyer County Park image 1

Park offers spacious open areas with peaceful lake views and shaded spots for relaxation. Multiple kid-friendly zones include playgrounds, splash pads, and sand pits, creating a lively yet calm environment. Visitors experience a balance of quiet nature and active play spaces without feeling crowded.

BBQ grill and picnic area stay in great shape. Trails and playground sit close by, making it easy to mix barbecue with walking or playing.

Big playground and water play area keep kids busy and happy. Facilities include a swing set and a clean, updated play area suitable for all ages.

People are saying

"It's a beautiful park with a peaceful lake and lots of ducks."

"The playground has a splash pad and fun play structures."

"The park has great picnic areas with BBQ grills and playgrounds."

Good to know

1

Entry to the park costs $6 per person.

2

Parking at Hellyer County Park is $6 for all day on weekdays.

3

Restrooms are available throughout the park.

03
Buddy Todd Park image 1

Open green space with big trees and ocean views creates a peaceful, breezy atmosphere. Facilities include playgrounds, courts, and picnic areas, supporting family-friendly and relaxed gatherings. The park feels clean and well-maintained, offering spots for quiet reflection or active play.

Charcoal BBQ grills and BBQ stations are available for use. The park offers a relaxed BBQ vibe ideal for outdoor cooking and gatherings.

A huge children play area offers slides, tubes to crawl in, and swing sets. The playground sits alongside a great walking path.

People are saying

"It's a beautiful, quiet park with awesome ocean views."

"The playground here is huge with plenty for kids to do."

"I loved the beautiful scenery and the breeze."

Good to know

1

Parking can be difficult on weekends, especially during busy hours.

2

The park has a designated area for barbecues and a playground for kids.

3

LARP events are held on some Saturdays starting at 1 PM.

04
Marina Park image 1

Oceanfront park offers serene atmosphere with lush green hills and breathtaking views. Family-friendly space includes a nautical-themed playground and large lawn for picnics and games. Dog-friendly paths and water access create a peaceful, inviting environment.

Large lawn areas offer plenty of space for barbecues, games, and family fun. Facilities include BBQ pits, tables, restrooms, and a playground near the beach.

Well-maintained playgrounds feature sturdy jungle gyms and a ship play area for climbing. The design blends nature and ocean views, creating a fun and inviting space for families.

People are saying

"It's a fun beach with a playground and activities for all ages."

"It's a fun playground with a unique nautical theme for kids."

"It's an awesome place to have a barbecue."

Good to know

1

Dogs are allowed at Marina Park.

2

Part of the parking at Marina Park is closed due to construction.

3

The pier walk is closed due to storm damage.

05
Carbon Canyon Regional Park image 1

Redwood trees dominate the landscape, creating a peaceful atmosphere with shaded trails and a spacious layout. The park offers diverse amenities including playgrounds, tennis courts, picnic areas, and a lake with ducks. It remains quiet on weekdays, making it ideal for calm, nature-filled visits.

Plenty of BBQ pits and picnic tables make it easy to set up a cookout. The area includes kids' playgrounds and bathrooms nearby for convenience.

Multiple playgrounds cater to different ages with clear labels and include adaptive swings for special needs. Spacious picnic areas sit near the main entrance, offering a relaxing spot next to the playgrounds.

People are saying

"The redwood grove park is so unusual and beautiful."

"I found the playground beautiful and spacious for family fun."

"The park has a fantastic Barbecue area with plenty of picnic tables."

Good to know

1

There is a $5 entrance fee for the park.

2

Parking spaces are limited at Carbon Canyon Regional Park.

3

The restrooms at the park are very clean.

06
Felicita County Park image 1

Large park blends natural forest feel with recreational facilities like playgrounds, picnic areas, and trails. Atmosphere stays peaceful and quiet, offering stunning views and plenty of spots to relax. Popular for family outings, events, and outdoor activities.

Multiple areas offer BBQ facilities with plenty of grills and picnic tables. Spaces include gazebos and room for families to gather and cook outdoors.

Multiple playgrounds serve different age groups, including separate areas for babies and toddlers. The equipment is great and the park includes mini hiking paths nearby.

People are saying

"I found multiple play areas for kids of all ages."

"This park is beautiful, peaceful, and well-kept with nice trails."

"It's a great place for a family Barbecue with plenty of room."

Good to know

1

The Escondido Renaissance Faire occurs twice a year at the park.

2

Parking costs $5, but it's free after 5pm.

3

There is a $3 admission fee to enter the park.

07
Mile Square Regional Park image 1

Park offers spacious setting with two fishing lakes and an archery range, uncommon among parks. Atmosphere stays peaceful and quiet despite nearby busy roads, making it a calm spot for families and relaxation. Numerous sports courts and rental activities create a versatile outdoor experience.

Numerous BBQ spots spread across the park offer space for grilling and picnics. Grills are available but often require bringing your own due to their poor condition.

Playgrounds offer swings and spaces where kids can play and enjoy themselves. Shaded areas nearby provide spots for rest and relaxation.

People are saying

"These parks are spacious, clean, and well-maintained."

"It's a great place for barbecues and sports games."

"This spacious park has plenty of open space for activities."

Good to know

1

Parking costs $5.00 unless you find street parking.

2

Bring your own grill for barbecuing in the park.

3

The park hosts concerts every Thursday during the summer.

08
Yorba Regional Park image 1

Large outdoor space features beautiful lakes and wooded forests that create a peaceful, serene atmosphere despite nearby freeway noise. Numerous picnic tables and BBQ grills provide spots for groups, while rentals for paddle boats and bicycles support active recreation. Open grassy areas and multiple playgrounds make it suitable for families and pets.

Shaded picnic tables and barbecue pits spread throughout the park make group gatherings easy. Plenty of space supports barbecues alongside picnics and celebrations.

Multiple playgrounds spread throughout offer spaces for all ages. Paths are wide and shaded, making walking and dog walking comfortable. Play areas stay clean and safe.

People are saying

"It's a kid-friendly place with at least two large jungle gyms."

"It's a great park for riding around and having a barbecue."

"The playgrounds here are fantastic for kids of all ages."

Good to know

1

Parking costs $3 per vehicle, valid for the entire day.

2

Dogs must be leashed at all times while in the park.

3

Fishing is allowed in the lakes, but a valid fishing license is required.

09
La Mirada Community Regional Park image 1

Large park with spacious open areas and a beautiful lake creates a calm, serene atmosphere. Multiple playgrounds, disc golf course, and tennis courts offer varied activities. Friendly environment supports community gatherings and quiet relaxation.

Barbecue pits use charcoal grills and have nearby outlets for convenience. Wide open spaces surround the BBQ areas, making it easy to enjoy outdoor cooking.

Large grass areas surround playgrounds built for ages 2-5. Coverings protect the young children's play area, adding shade and comfort.

People are saying

"This park is beautiful, spacious, and great for all ages."

"It's a great playground with coverings for the little kids."

"The park has nice barbecue pits with outlets nearby."

Good to know

1

Parking can be difficult during peak hours, especially on weekends.

2

The park features a disc golf course, tennis courts, and playgrounds for kids.

3

The park hosts outdoor concerts on Thursdays during the summer.

10
Irvine Regional Park image 1

Spacious park with lush greenery and large open grass areas featuring BBQs and picnic benches. Atmosphere shifts from peaceful and quiet during weekdays to active and friendly with families and teens on weekends. Offers diverse activities including a zoo, train and pony rides, paddle boats, and hiking trails.

Grills spread throughout the park make it easy to enjoy a family BBQ or friends' get-together. Plenty of shady spots and picnic areas let you set up chairs and relax in the breeze while cooking.

Multiple playgrounds offer a variety of equipment including a train and a zoo area. Clean picnic areas and benches near ponds provide spots to relax, while trails surround the play spaces for walking or hiking.

People are saying

"This park has a zoo and train, perfect for families."

"I thought this park was a great place to spend the day."

"It's a great place for family barbecues and outdoor fun."

Good to know

1

The cost to enter the park with a vehicle is $5.

2

Parking can be extremely difficult at Irvine Regional Park.

3

I need to arrive early because the park fills up quickly.

11
Mothers Beach image 1
Public beach

Public beach offers calm waters and beautiful marina views, creating a quiet, family-friendly atmosphere. Facilities include playgrounds, picnic areas with barbecue grills, and water sports rentals, supporting both relaxation and active play.

Covered picnic areas include barbecue grills that get cleaned daily. The spot combines a playground with cookout-friendly spaces for family and friends.

A fun playground sits near a gentle shoreline with shallow waters. Facilities include bathrooms and showers to clean off salt water.

People are saying

"This beach is kid friendly with calm, shallow waves."

"It's a great playground for young kids with no waves."

"It's a great place for a barbecue with plenty of grills and tables."

Good to know

1

Parking is available nearby for $15 per 24 hours.

2

Swimming is not recommended due to high bacteria levels in the water.

3

Mothers Beach has calm water, making it suitable for young children.

12
De Anza Cove Park image 1

Waterfront park offers spacious grassy areas and playgrounds with volleyball courts and picnic spots. Atmosphere stays peaceful and relaxing even when it gets a bit crowded. Plenty of parking and open space make it suitable for families and outdoor activities.

Lots of barbecue areas and fire pits make it easy to grill and hang out. Plenty of grass and sidewalks provide space for playing and walking during family barbecues.

Playgrounds here feature equipment for young kids and sit near picnic tables and barbecues. Green spaces and benches surround the play areas, making it easy to watch kids play.

People are saying

"I found parking available and it was easy to find."

"It's a great place for family barbecues and gatherings."

"It's a nice playground for little kids."

Good to know

1

Parking at De Anza Cove Park is easy during weekdays but challenging on weekends.

2

The park features playgrounds, picnic tables, and fire pits for public use.

3

There are plenty of bathrooms, but they can get crowded.

13
Brand Park image 1

Park combines Japanese Friendship Garden and historic architecture with scenic mountain views. Atmosphere stays peaceful and serene, inviting quiet walks along koi ponds and stone paths. Families and dog owners gather around playgrounds and social areas, blending nature with community.

Free barbecue stations and BBQ fire pits make it easy to cook outdoors. The park suits cookouts and picnics with family and friends.

Separate kids' play area enhances family-friendly appeal. Playground includes a toilet nearby, making it convenient for children. Multiple playgrounds and trails offer variety without crowding.

People are saying

"It's a peaceful, quiet place for a picnic."

"This playground is so peaceful and relaxed, perfect for a calm afternoon."

"You can have a great barbecue here with the available fire pits."

Good to know

1

Beware of coyotes, which may attack pets in the area.

2

Parking at Brand Park is free but can be limited.

3

The women's restrooms had two toilets out of order during my visit.

14
Eisenhower Park image 1

Spacious park with multiple playgrounds and elegant bridges crossing peaceful streams and a lake. Calm and tranquil atmosphere with well-maintained landscaping and paved walkways for easy access. Popular for family outings and outdoor activities with picnic areas and barbecue zones.

Plenty of BBQs and tables make it easy to grill and eat outdoors. Kebabs with a mix of lamb and beef, grilled tomatoes, and warmed pita bread are common choices for a barbecue here.

Two playgrounds offer plenty of space for kids to play. Both are well kept and clean, making them inviting for families.

People are saying

"It's a beautiful, peaceful park with great views."

"I found the park's nature views and water features to be a wonderful getaway."

"The Barbecue here is awesome, just like the nature."

Good to know

1

Parking at Eisenhower Park is free, but can be limited during peak times.

2

The park features paved walkways, making it accessible for wheelchairs and strollers.

3

There is only one bathroom available at Eisenhower Park.

15
Goleta Beach Park image 1

Long pier and grassy picnic areas create a spacious, relaxed setting with beautiful ocean and mountain views. The atmosphere stays quiet and peaceful, attracting locals who enjoy chill vibes and outdoor activities like surfing and picnicking. Well-maintained playgrounds and public grills add to the family-friendly environment.

Plenty of BBQ pits and picnic tables sit near the ocean, offering a spot to grill with a view. Clean restrooms are nearby, making it easy to enjoy a barbecue by the water.

Well maintained playground offers a nice spot for kids with great views nearby. Picnic areas and water fountains add to the family-friendly setup.

People are saying

"This beach is beautiful and a great place to rest."

"The playground here is nice and has great views."

"I found plenty of barbecues and benches available."

Good to know

1

Much of the beach is corded off due to sewage contamination.

2

The park has limited parking, but free parking is available.

3

The park is dog friendly, making it great for pet owners.

16
Koehler Park image 1

Open green spaces with multiple sports courts and playgrounds create an active environment. The park maintains a clean, quiet atmosphere with shady trees offering spots for relaxation and walking. It attracts families and active individuals seeking outdoor activities and calm surroundings.

BBQ grills stay filthy with no cleaning from workers. The area includes a basketball court nearby.

Multiple playgrounds offer options for kids. Plenty of shade makes it comfortable. Easy access connects playgrounds to tennis courts.

People are saying

"I found the parks here to be really nice and clean."

"It's a great playground with lots of shade."

"The Barbecue area was clean and quiet."

Good to know

1

Koehler Park has a large field usually used for soccer.

2

The park features basketball courts and tennis courts for public use.

3

The public restrooms at Koehler Park were recently cleaned.

17
Santa Fe Dam Recreation Area image 1

Park features green grass, big trees providing shade, and a lake with mountain views. Atmosphere stays peaceful and relaxing, ideal for picnics, barbecues, and quiet outdoor activities. Visitors often enjoy bike paths and a water playground for family-friendly fun.

Plenty of barbecue facilities and pit fire areas make cooking easy. The area stays clean and suits both family gatherings and casual BBQs.

A water playground offers fun for kids alongside a playground with host trees and nearby grilling areas. The space includes bathrooms and a beach area, making it easy to spend time outdoors.

People are saying

"It's a great place for families with lots for kids to do."

"You can have a nice barbecue in this big, clean park."

"It's a great place for kids to enjoy the playground."

Good to know

1

Parking costs $12 on weekends; arrive early as it can be scarce.

2

If visiting during the event, bring cash to save time.

3

The Southern California Renaissance Faire occurs every April and May.

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