Here in Lakeland we are blessed with some amazing parks and playgrounds for families to enjoy for FREE. In the heat of summer (and early fall… and usually spring too…) we know that a shaded playground is the KEY to making a trip to the park last more than 15 minutes.
Lakeland Mom went on a hunt to find the best playgrounds in Lakeland with shade to inspire you with new parks to explore! None of the playgrounds are completely covered, but if they had benches for mom and dad in the shade, a large portion of the playground equipment in the shade, or big trees to provide shade at some point during the day, they MADE OUR LIST!
We also know that fenced in playgrounds are important for many families, and someone ALWAYS needs to go the bathroom within 5 minutes of arriving, so look for notes on restrooms, fences, and pavilion rentals below. Be sure to wear closed toe shoes since all of these playgrounds are mulch, and don’t forget to bring water.
The Rotary Playground has a pirate ship, treehouse, ziplines, parent/baby swings, and so much more to explore.
Click here to read our full review of the Rotary Playground and see more photos.
Restrooms – Yes, look for white buildings off to either side of the playground
Fenced in – No, and one side of playground is open to Lake Parker
Pavilions – Yes, eight pavilions available, first come first serve
Operated by – City of Lakeland
*There is a bell at the playground that kids can ring, some special needs parents have told us their kids struggled with the constant loud ringing of the bell*
Climbing structures, a rope pyramid, and lots of shade make this a reader favorite playground in south Lakeland. My favorite part is a swinging bench where this mom can sit and watch.
Restrooms – Yes, look for the screened pavilion towards the entrance
Fenced in – Not fenced in but playground is far away from the main road
Pavilions – Multiple open pavilions available, first come first serve. Screened Pavilion available to rent through Polk County Parks & Recreation.
Operated by – Polk County
This playground got a complete makeover in 2016. Structures for kids of all ages, plus a parent/baby swing, 4 person see-saw, and lots of rope climbing areas. Park also includes sports fields and skate park. Great shaded playground!
Restrooms – Yes
Fenced in – Only partially, fence along parking lot and lake. Other two sides bordered by baseball fields.
Pavilions – None nearby, a few picnic tables
Operated by – City of Lakeland
This playground includes my new favorite – a zipline! There are climbing structures for all ages, multiple swings, and a HUGE field next to the playground.
Restrooms – Yes
Fenced in – Partial, fence on two sides near the road, open on two sides to the field
Pavilions – Yes, first come first serve
Operated by – City of Lakeland
This neighborhood playground is almost completely shaded AND fenced in! Two structures with slides, plus swings, along with a large grassy area next to the playground. No bathrooms on site, and no designated parking lot – simply find a spot along the road.
Restrooms – No
Fenced in – Yes but there is not a gate at the entrance
Pavilions – No
Operated by – City of Lakeland
Also called Carter Road Park, at Loyce Harpe Park two large canopies cover two of the three structures at this playground. Little ones will enjoy driving the car and riding on the whale, while big kids can climb away on three different play areas. Take a left where the road splits, it is hidden off to the right before you reach the baseball fields.
Restrooms – Yes, across the bridge at the back of the playground (look for the screened pavilion)
Fenced in – Yes but the gate is not child proof
Pavilions – Yes, one screened pavilion available for rent through Polk County Parks & Recreation
Operated by – Polk County
While this playground isn’t in Lakeland, it was mentioned by multiple Lakeland Mom readers as a local favorite and worth the drive!
Features playground equipment for children of all ages. Swing sets, bench swings, tower, train, Tot area and more. Walk across the street to grab lunch or ice cream in Downtown Auburndale.
Restrooms – Yes
Fenced in – No
Pavilions – Yes, first come first serve
Operated by – City of Auburndale
Prefer a playground in the air conditioning? Check out Funtasia at Family Fun Center!
Check out a full list of playgrounds in Lakeland + Polk County.
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