My three kids and I love discovering new parks and places to play. We’re willing to drive a good distance to reach a spectacular playground, but I just love it when we stumble upon something fantastic that is close to home. That fantastic playground I’m alluding to today is the Betty Russell Community Park in Gurnee! I must admit that I didn’t even know this park existed until a few weeks ago when I was writing up the LLC Facebook page suggestions for best tot lots. We stopped by one day after a nearby doctor’s appointment, and I’m so glad we did!
This park is perfect for my three kids (ages almost 4, 2.5, and 10 months) but would also be great for older children. There are a variety of playground structures, swings, and interesting climbing apparatus to keep everyone entertained. Betty Russell Community Park has other amenities, too! There are basketball courts, a large sand volleyball court, tennis courts, skate park, soccer fields, softball fields, and access to a trail system. And something I never take for granted these days: Real bathrooms!!
There truly is something for everyone in your family at this wonderful play space! My 10-month-old daughter had a ball playing in the tot-sized maze which featured a foam-like surface. She was able to crawl around and play while I easily kept an eye on my other children. When it was time for a break, we headed over to the covered picnic shelters for a snack (another nice amenity). I highly recommend making the trip to this great playground if you haven’t already!
Betty Russell Community Park
5300 Pinewood Rd., Gurnee
Editor’s note: Pictures updated and playground profile added June 2015.
by Dawn T. (Volo)
Dawn is a former 1st grade and early childhood teacher turned to stay at home mom to 2 boys Dawn and her boys love journeying around Lake County and the Chicago suburbs to check out new places to play, restaurants, farms, gardens, museums, or anything that might be of interest to families with young children.
Thanks for your kind words. We are always glad to have satisfied patrons. We hope that you will stop by and check out our other parks and facilities.
Jeff Reinhard
Superintendent of Parks
Gurnee Park District