Hart’s Wood Park was just a skip, hop and throw to where we lived before we moved. It was where we would go after dinner to let the little ones burn some of the evening wiggles before bed. Even though we have a new neighborhood park, the kids still remember Hart Park and are still partial to it.
Hart’s Wood Park is adjacent to the Robert W Rolek Community Center that houses the Round Lake Park District. The early childhood center is also located underneath the Community Center. Depending on the time you visit the park you might encounter the preschool/camps going on.
There is plenty of equipment for older children to climb and play on. The larger play area with the tunnels is pretty high up. There has been a couple of times my toddler would wander up the stairs and become frozen with fear because up much high than anticipated. Along with toddler and regular swings there are also two adaptive (handicap accessible) swings. Bring some chalk by to draw on the giant blackboard next to the wooden seats.
Hart’s Wood Park is also one of my favorites because there is a gate that keeps the little ones from running out into the road that goes to the back of the community center. The gate actually goes around the entire playground with two gates at each ends. Last year when I had a 1 and 3 year old it was much easier to manage having my oldest constantly running away from me while the youngest wanted to go on the swing.
If there are any train enthusiasts in your group they will be delighted to know that the Metra runs along the opposite side of Rt 134. The gate by the tot equipment opens up to east side of the park. We’ve walked up to the gate to wave to the train. Sometimes the train conductor would even wave back!
The tot equipment is just low enough to give toddlers enough confidence to climb up on the ladders and go down the slides on their own.
There are plenty of picnic tables and shelters for a picnic with ample shade during sunny days. The porta potty could be a minus for some but with a bathroom close by I would consider it a plus. There are also bathrooms inside the community center that is open to park goers during normal business hours.
Across from the park on Hart Rd there are a couple of sand volleyball courts and hills for sledding during the winter. Also, there is a skate park for the older children and a soccer field north of the playground.
Also, don’t forget to pack up everyone’s swim suit and check out the Aquatic Center. The splash pad is something to be experienced!
Hart’s Woods Park
Robert W. Rolek Community Center, 814 Hart Road, Round Lake
Phone: 847-546-8558
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