New Jersey has several amazing playgrounds built around the idea that all children are equal. All children, regardless of abilities, deserve fun, engaging places to play. After all some of the best childhood memories are created during our playground experiences. We’re excited to share the best inclusive accessible playgrounds in New Jersey.
Playgrounds are a great, free way to let kids burn up some energy, while getting fresh air and exercise. For a family like mine that includes kids with special needs, an accessible playground (sometimes known as a boundless playground) that works for the whole family is a game changer! That’s why I was happy to help create A Guide to New Jersey Inclusive Playgrounds.
Do you know about an all-inclusive playground in New Jersey that should be added to the list? Please drop me an email at [email protected] and tell me all about it. If you have pictures you can include that would be great as well.
What makes a NJ playground accessible and inclusive?
When we find an accessible NJ playground that works for us, we usually visit often. Of course, the playground needs to be clean and fun. That is a given for any family.
Details like soft areas, ramps, clear sight lines, sensory spots, and safety features like a fenced-in area or the absence of traffic or bodies of water are what sets a playground apart for us and help to create an inclusive playground. You might hear them called boundless playgrounds, a term that highlights that the playground is accessible for all types of kids with various disabilities and typical kids as well.
I have learned that planning ahead is critical when venturing out with a family living with disabilities. With that in mind, Jersey Family Fun has created a list of accessible playgrounds in New Jersey for your family to enjoy! Jenn visited many of these playgrounds last summer during the Jersey Family Fun challenge to feature 100 playgrounds in 100 Days.
10 Criteria we used to determine New Jersey Inclusive Playgrounds
When looking for an inclusive playground, I always look for places that will accommodate my children with special needs. It is especially important to me that the playgrounds we visit are safe, clean, and accessible for children with varying developmental and physical challenges. I also look for a fun, bright and clean space where my typically developing children can enjoy themselves as well.
Distance from parking to the play area
It is essential that when we visit inclusive play spaces, the parking is not too far. This is because my daughter becomes fatigued very easily, and I want her to have the energy to enjoy the playground, not waste her energy getting there.
Also, if you have a “runner” or “eloper” you will know that close parking is essential for safety. I am not able to transport my daughter and carry tons of gear. Therefore, close parking is ideal for quick trips to the car for diaper changes, reapplying sunscreen, grabbing a drink or just calming down for a minute or two with an overstimulated child.
Fenced area/Limited Exits
Finding a playground with fencing is extremely important for families like mine that include children with physical disabilities or neurodivergence. Especially when visiting with multiple children, a fence can be the difference between having a fun, stress-free time where the kids can actually play, and me spending my time barking orders and trying to corral everyone together. No fun!
Sometimes a physical barrier such as a hedge or a border around the perimeter of a playground can work just as well as a true fence. I also look for playgrounds with one entrance and exit. It is easier to position myself so that my children are not able to elope or be taken away if I have to look away for a minute. Again, this is just another way of maximizing fun and limiting anxiety.
Restrooms-Clean/Family restrooms
Children with extra needs are often more vulnerable to stranger danger and or may need assistance when using the restroom. Many neurodivergent children may need verbal coaching to help them through their bathroom routine. This is why I always look for play areas that have either a family restroom or a small clean bathroom where a parent can stand outside to call reminders to a child who needs direction. Of course, cleanliness is a must for families with children who cannot resist touching everything!
Accessible equipment
Nothing is more upsetting than driving up to a beautiful, colorful playground and discovering that the equipment is not accessible or safe for your child to use. Thankfully, more and more playground and city planners have been including accessible equipment in their playground designs. I am thrilled when I see awesome features that my child can access in her walker, gait trainer, or wheelchair.
Ramps
We love to visit playgrounds with ramps and bridges. Stairs, nets, and ladders can be very limiting for kids who are walker- or wheelchair-bound or who have stability issues. Any parent who has had to carry a child up a ladder so that they can access a slide knows what I am talking about!
Swings
Special needs friendly swings that are in good working order are also a huge hit with my child! She loves the sensory input she gets from swinging and I love knowing she is safe and secure in a swing that is the right size for her. I am especially happy when these swings are integrated with swings for typical kids so that my daughter can ride with her siblings and friends who don’t need special support.
Accessible Slides
Slides are pretty common at most playgrounds. We look for slides that are wide enough to fit a child and an adult if needed. Also, it is important for our daughter that slides do not have sharp bends or curves. This is because she wears AFO’s (leg braces) that make it difficult for her to bend her leg. So, we have learned the hard way that she will easily get stuck if a slide is too curvy. We are thrilled if there is a way to access the slide with accessible equipment such as shallow stairs or even better, a ramp!
Imagination Spaces
My daughter loves to pretend. So playgrounds that have a train, car, or boat that she can enjoy are always a hit for us! She “travels” all over the place in stationary equipment. These elements are also a great place to rest or have a sensory break out of the sun.
Upper Body Challenges
For kids who need wheelchair-accessible fun or who have stability issues, upper body challenges are a great way to get exercise and use their bodies to have fun in an inclusive play area. Some of our favorite upper body challenges include parallel bars, arch ladders, or hand-crank powered rides.
Sensory Play Equipment
Sensory-friendly equipment is great for all children of all abilities! It helps with deregulation and is calming and fun. Children with autism, ADHD, sensory integration issues, or even anxiety will especially benefit from sensory play.
Accessible playgrounds provide a number of sensory experiences for children. I especially love that sensory equipment can level the playing field so to speak for our kids with mobility issues. They may not make it across the monkey bars without help, but they can sit by a friend and make music together. It is so fun to watch them discover through these elements.
“Children with Autism and Sensory Processing Disorders may find challenges with socialization, communication, play and imagination. Sensory play playgrounds attract children and encourage exploration and discovery, and provide a “just-right” experience for those seeking sensory stimulation.”
Landscape Structures
Some of our favorite sensory-friendly equipment include:
Mirrors
We seek out playgrounds with mirrors! My daughter loves to sit in front of a mirror and sing, babble, and play. We love to see mirrors incorporated into play systems and playground equipment.
Chimes
Music is so soothing and fun! My daughter loves to hear and make music at the playground. I love when the element has soft, soothing, sensory-friendly tones. Chimes are a great opportunity for my children to enjoy interacting with children of all abilities!
Sand
We love sand if it is contained in a sandbox and my daughter can sit outside and play in the sand. That said, I know there are some sensory-seeking kids who love to roll around and experience the sand head to toe! As long as they don’t eat the sand or get it in their eyes, sand can be a fun, relaxing, sensory-friendly way to spend time at the park.
A few parks we have visited have plenty of spades, shovels, pails, and trucks for kids to borrow while visiting. Sandbox play is so much fun and can spark some wonderful interactions with other kids!
Terrain
We love when inclusive play environments include sensory-friendly elements like rubber surfacing or artificial turf fields that wheels can easily glide over. This is so much more special needs friendly than mulch or gravel!
Other surfaces like soft matting, wood decking, or paved paths are more conducive to children with mobility issues. Children living with Autism often have a difficult time with mulch and pea gravel getting caught in their shoes or impacting stability.
And of course, there are some kids who will put mulch, gravel, and stones in their mouths. So, I try to avoid this as much as possible. Sensory-friendly terrain can really change our experience at a NJ boundless playground!
Sight lines
With multiple children, and kids with extra needs, parents and caregivers need clear, unobstructed sightlines to all of the equipment at NJ accessible playgrounds. When you visit a playground with kids who have various capabilities, they all want to go in different directions! Physical barriers can block sight lines and cause safety concerns. So, having a vantage point where a caregiver can see everyone is safe and so much more enjoyable for parents and children of all abilities.
Seating options
For our family, it is important that there are seating options. We need to have seats with a back for my daughter who has mobility issues.
It is helpful when there is wheelchair-accessible seating at a playground if we want to have a snack or picnic. There needs to be seating in multiple locations so that I can sit with my daughter and be close to my other kids as well.
Wobbly, dirty, unsupportive seating will not work for us. We choose playgrounds with supportive, stable, clean seating options so that we can be comfortable and safe.
Lack of Danger Areas
When planning to visit a play area or inclusive NJ playground, I am always mindful of potential danger areas. Parents of toddlers, kids on the spectrum, or kids with various developmental disabilities need to be hyper-aware of areas that can be dangerous. Many times, a social story, or a discussion warning kids to avoid these areas before leaving the house can be helpful.
I am always aware of potential hazards for my children that may include ponds, hidden bathrooms, sharp rocks, busy roads, or multiple exits. One of these potential dangers may not be a problem, but with multiple children and special needs several of these potential hazards may preclude us from safely visiting a playground without extra supervision.
One last tip, Pick the best time to go to avoid crowds
When going to a playground, I try to avoid crowds as much as possible. Crowds can be overstimulating for my children with special needs. The sounds, smells, and physical input can be extremely taxing on a child who has sensory issues. Crowds can be a safety issue for a child who elopes or who doesn’t have the awareness to stay near his/her caregiver. To avoid crowds, I try to find out when our favorite play spots are not busy and my little ones will have more space to play.
New Jersey has some wonderful inclusive playgrounds with amazing accessibility features so that every family can enjoy a beautiful day together. As with any family activity, planning and knowing what to expect can make all the difference for a family that involves special needs. To that end, we have compiled of list of inclusive and accessible playgrounds in New Jersey to help families prepare to have fun outings together!
The Best Inclusive & Accessible Playgrounds in New Jersey
These are the accessible New Jersey playgrounds that just left us in awe as we discovered them. We’d walk onto the playground and our jaws would drop. Accessibility and inclusiveness look like they were kept in mind as every detail was created and every structure built.
These playgrounds go beyond having accessible swings. They go beyond having wheelchair-accessible ramps. They even do more than add a wheelchair-accessible glider. The best inclusive playgrounds in New Jersey have accessible features that are seldom seen across New Jersey.
These playgrounds are phenomenal and whether or not your child needs a playground that is accessible I encourage you to visit each of these playgrounds. They are incredible examples of how playgrounds can be built to include ALL children.
Our goal was to show families our favorite accessible playgrounds local to them. You may find some of these inclusive play spaces so phenomenal that they are worth leaving your local area for. Pack a lunch and spend the day at these accessible NJ playgrounds.
In no particular order, we present the best inclusive and accessible playgrounds in New Jersey. Get a drink and get comfortable, we have A LOT to share.
Watsessing Park Playground in Bloomfield in Essex County in North Jersey
Bloomfield Ave &, Conger St, Bloomfield (Essex County)
Watsessing Park is an enormous, inclusive playground that will wow all of your kids with various abilities. The park is chock full of inclusive and accessible structures and elements where all kids can play together at their own level.
Kids can swing, climb, glide, imagine, and spin for hours all in a smooth, contained area. The sheer size and seamless inclusion throughout this playground is awe-inspiring!
My suggestion would be to go at an off time or bring multiple caregivers to help keep eyes on everyone and ensure close parking. With so much to offer, the Watsessing Park Playground is popular and can get crowded!
Watsessing Park Playground in Bloomfield is fenced in with a small parking lot just a few steps away from the playground entrance.
Read more and see all the accessible features in our guide to Watsessing Park Playground in Bloomfield NJ.
Challenger Place Park Playground in Colts Neck in Monmouth County in Central Jersey
209 County Rd 537, Colts Neck, NJ (Monmouth County)
Challenger Place Park is a wonderland for families! There are so many thoughtful and unique details that were incorporated into what is billed as the first universally accessible playground in New Jersey!
There truly is fun for everyone at this boundless playground and all that it has to offer. There is even a spray park on the property. But be aware that you need a reservation to use the free spray park. (Details for making a reservation can be found here in our review of Challenger Place Park.)
Challenger Place Park Playground also has an enormous sand play area that even has tables for kids to access in their wheelchairs. These two items are super fun for many kids but just be prepared if sand or water could be a red flag for your family.
A special note to parents of visually impaired children…there is Braille throughout the playground and plenty of tactile, oratory, and kinesthetic play opportunities as well!
Challenger Place Playground has some fencing and there are only 3 paved pathways to get to it from the rest of the park. One of the paved pathways leads to a nearby parking lot.
Read more and see all the accessible features in our guide to Challenger Place Park Playground in Colts Neck NJ.
Jake’s Place Playground in Delran in Burlington County in South Jersey
12 Hartford Rd, Delran (Burlington County)
Thanks to the work of over 250 volunteers in the area, Jake’s Place was specifically designed for children with special needs and typical peers to play together.
Jake’s Place Playground in Delran has fun New Jersey-themed areas featuring a barn, horses, and all kinds of Jersey references like the “Down the shore” area.
Jakes Place in Delran space has plenty of features and amenities that will ignite the energy levels and imaginations of children of all abilities, There is rubber matting, ramps, clear sight lines, and tons of fun wheelchair-accessible equipment and swings.
Read more and see all the accessible features in our guide to Jake’s Place Playground in Delran NJ.
Field of Dreams Playground in Toms River in Ocean County in South Jersey
1505 N Bay Ave, Toms River, NJ (Ocean County)
Get ready to blast off into a space-themed wonderland of fun for your entire family. I broke down and cried when I saw how this amazing recreation space is truly barrier-free for all families. Inspired by a little boy named Gavin who suffered a traumatic brain injury, the team of designers has thought of everything to provide a stress-free, fun and out-of-this-world experience for families touched by special needs.
The Toms River Field of Dreams Playground is a playground that is worth the drive! Beyond the playground, there is a wheelchair-accessible basketball court, a minigolf area, and community gardens. There is plenty to do for older/bigger kids too!
Sensory seekers and sensory avoiders will all have fun at this accessible Toms River playground! There is even a chill space tucked away for kids who need a break from sensory input.
The first thing you need to know about this playground is that you have to be a member to get inside. Membership is FREE and families can register online to be members.
The Field of Dreams Playground in Toms River is completely fenced in with a locked gate. Members receive a code for the gate. There is a very large parking lot just steps from the gate.
Read more and see all the accessible features in our guide to Field of Dreams Playground in Toms River NJ.
Colonial Park Playground in Somerset (Franklin) in Somerset County in Central Jersey
156 Mettlers Rd, Somerset, NJ (Somerset County)
This inclusive playground and the surrounding park in Somerset NJ have lots to offer active families. There is an accessible playground, mini golf, bocce, paddle boats, a spray park and tons of open space and trails.
The playground itself has some really unique upper body challenges including a roller where kids can use their arms to advance through a series of arcs. Super fun and challenging! There is so much to do, you could easily spend a day enjoying everything this playground has to offer.
Well-maintained bathrooms and accessible parking will make it easy to focus on fun and not get trapped in the details. However, if you have multiple kids or runners/elopers, consider bringing an extra caregiver. The space is BIG and not fenced off from parking, ponds, and water features.
There is some split rail fencing around the spray park. Colonial Park Playground is not fenced in and is open on all sides. There are several parking lots within a short walk away.
Read more and see all the accessible features in our guide to Colonial Park Playground in Somerset NJ.
Jake’s Place Playground in Cherry Hill in Camden County in South Jersey
101 Bortons Mill Rd, Cherry Hill (Camden County)
Jake’s Place is a boundless playground that was specifically designed for children and adults with special needs to play together. I love that the park is designed for kids of all abilities and ages. This is certainly unique and takes inclusion to the next level!
The inclusive play space has all the features and amenities that are the gold standard for accessible fun for all. There is a safety fence, rubber matting, clear sight lines, and all the cool wheelchair-accessible equipment and swings.
Jake’s Place Playground in Cherry Hill also has specially designed sensory areas and areas for people with Autism to relax and play. Details like plenty of shade and family bathrooms prove that Jakes’ Place Place was created to remove stress for caregivers and amp up the fun for everyone!
Jake’s Place Playground in Cherry Hill is fenced in on every side except its archway entrance. Parking is available in a long strip of parking spots that run along the park perimeter’s one side. There is some walking involved to get from the playground to the parking lot.
Read more and see all the accessible features in our guide to Jake’s Place Playground in Cherry Hill NJ.
Shai Shacknai Memorial Park Playground in Wayne in Passaic County in North Jersey
Williamsburg Court OR 55 Greenrale Avenue in Wayne (Passaic County)
This little gem of a park is tucked away in a neighborhood in Wayne, NJ. The playground is a great illustration of how accessibility can be seamlessly incorporated so that children of all abilities can play together.
Shai Shacknai Memorial Park Playground has all the features that a family with extra needs might need! Most of the playground is wheelchair accessible with rubber matting and wide ramps and even a merry-go-round that kids can roll into with their wheelchairs.
There are also climbing structures with handrails and foot grips for kids who may have stability issues. A zip line with a bucket seat offers tons of fun! Lots of sensory play areas, a house for pretend play and a shaded pavilion with picnic tables ensure that there is something for everyone.
There is also a grassy, open area surrounding the fenced playground for kids who love to just run. During Jenn’s visit, she saw a family of deer in the grass as children played on the playground.
Shai Shacknai Memorial Park Playground is fenced in on all sides. The playground opens to a small parking lot with one entrance/exit.
Read more and see all the accessible features in our guide to Shai Shacknai Memorial Park Playground in Wayne NJ.
Mindowaskin Park Playground in Westfield in Union County in North Jersey
385 E Broad St, Westfield (Union County)
Mindowaskin Park Playground is one of a kind! It is set up like an old-fashioned town, with accessible equipment shaped like little storefronts and houses.
I immediately thought if Dicken’s Village had a playground this would be it. There are so many little details to love: the facade of the buildings, the pretend street lamps, and how the accessible details seem to be so naturally a part of the playground.
Jennifer Auer, Editor
Rubber matting and barrier-free elements supply endless fun for kids of all abilities. This playground was thoughtfully designed with lots of shade and ample seating and clear sight lines.
Accessible elements include a wheelchair-accessible cruiser, 2 accessible swings, wide ramps, and low flat steps with double railings.
A word of caution, there is limited parking near the playground, so visitors may have to park on the street and walk a bit of a distance during busy times. Mindowaskin Park Playground is not fenced in but it does sit back from the road and is surrounded by trees and open grassy areas.
Read more and see all the accessible features in our guide to Mindowaskin Park Playground in Westfield NJ.
Honorable Mention – New Jersey Inclusive Playgrounds
As we move onto the rest of our list of NJ inclusive playgrounds we need to recognize not all New Jersey counties and playgrounds are equal. Only a few can be the best. The same goes for inclusive playgrounds. Some of these New Jersey playgrounds have accessible zip lines, swings, trampolines, and more. Some may only have swings and ramps. And of course, every family’s needs vary. Take a look at our Honorable Mentions. They still make for some fantastic accessible and inclusive NJ playgrounds.
Ponderosa Farm Park Playground in Scotch Plains in Union County in North Jersey
1600 Cooper Rd, Scotch Plains (Union County)
Ponderosa Farm Park Playground playground has an “Old West theme” with a splash pad right in the middle! There are some accessible features as well.
Kids who love to pretend, will enjoy the General Store (which can be accessed by a ramp) and some picture cutouts where kids can put their faces in a cowboy/girl, hippo, or yak! I would say this playground is most suited to kids who are able and love to climb. It features smooth rubber matting and some ramps as well.
Clean, well-maintained bathrooms are available during park hours. Ponderosa Park Farm is a popular place! It gets crowded, especially with the spray pad in the summer. So try to visit early morning or around dinnertime to avoid crowds.
Ponderosa Farm Park Playground is not fenced in. There is a large parking lot. A sidewalk connects the parking area with the playground area.
Read more and see all the accessible features in our guide to Ponderosa Farm Park Playground in Scotch Plains NJ.
Field of Dreams Playground in Absecon in Atlantic County in South Jersey
1000 Morton Ave, Absecon (Atlantic County)
Families with smaller younger kids looking for accessibility will feel right at home at the Field of Dream Playground at Hackett Park at the Jonathan Pitney Recreation Complex. This play space was designed especially for individuals with various levels of physical and developmental abilities to enjoy together.
With the many pieces of accessible equipment, the layout, and features like the wide ramps that extend throughout, the Field of Dreams Playground in Absecon is a haven for families touched by disability.
The playground is adjacent to a mini golf course that is open during sporting events and an accessible baseball field. Kids will know that this is a magical place, the minute they step (or roll) onto the playground! Note: much of the equipment is designed for smaller kids so larger children may not enjoy it as much.
The Field of Dreams Playground has a fence between the playground and the side that faces the roadway. Visitors park in spots and in the grass that runs on both sides of the roadway adjacent to the playground. The roadway is a dead-end street that is off a road that runs through Absecon. Traffic on this roadway is limited to families visiting the park or sports fields.
Read more and see all the accessible features in our guide to Field of Dreams Playground in Absecon NJ.
Saddle River County Park Playground in Ridgewood in Bergen County in North Jersey
1133 East Ridgewood Avenue, Ridgewood (Bergen County)
This little playground is a relaxing little corner of the larger Saddle River County Park. Visiting the playground, having a picnic and a visit to the duck pond is a great way to spend a beautiful afternoon in New Jersey.
Saddle River County Playground has very natural colors and mulch ground cover. So for kids who experience sensory overload quickly, this could be a great little spot.
Although the ground cover for most of the park is mulch, there is a sidewalk leading to the ramp for the accessible elements. Kids will have to go over the mulch to reach the 4 (4!) accessible swings! It’s the most accessible swings we’ve seen at any inclusive NJ playground.
Children who enjoy wide open spaces to run, will also find plenty of green grass and trees to run and play around. Indoor bathrooms and paved walking trails make this a fun spot for children of all abilities and their families. Families concerned about water hazards should note that the duck pond is currently not fenced from the playground. Use caution.
Saddle River County Park Playground is not fenced in. It is open on most sides. There is a short sidewalk between the playgrounds and the large parking lot.
Read more and see all the accessible features in our guide to Saddle River County Park Playground in Ridgewood NJ.
Central Park Playground in Morris Plains in Morris County in North Jersey
91 Central Ave, Morris Plains (Morris County)
Central Park Playground is the perfect place for families with children of all abilities to enjoy a sunny day. This awesome play space sets the standard for boundless playgrounds.
Central Park Playground checks all the needs on our list! Soft rubber matting, wheelchair accessible ramps and equipment, plenty of sensory-friendly equipment, clear sight lines, and a safe fence put this playspace at the top of our list.
The only negative is that the parking is a bit far away, but there is a pristine paved walkway connecting the parking lot and the playground. So, if your child fatigues easily, bring a stroller or wagon so that he or she will have energy left to enjoy all this playground has to offer!
Read more and see all the accessible features in our guide to Central Park Playground in Morris Plains NJ.
Raymond W. Brown Playground at Duke Island Park in Bridgewater in Somerset County in Central Jersey
355 Milltown Road Bridgewater, New Jersey (Somerset County)
Duke Island Park’s Raymond W. Brown Playground is an excellent example of how barrier free equipment can be inclusive, safe and seamless. It is a super fun, awesome playground that happens to be thoughtfully accessible. As a result, the space is set up so that children of all abilities can play together with multiple opportunities for interactions on the same, engaging equipment.
My kids love Raymond W. Brown Playground for its huge towers, space to run and the variety of the equipment. We love to bring a snack or lunch and enjoy multiple hours at this amazing play space!
There is a 2 minute walk from the parking to the playground. There is a paved walkway for strollers or wheelchairs. The playground itself is not fenced in.
Read more and see all the accessible features in our guide to Raymond W. Brown Playground at Duke Island Park in Bridgewater NJ (coming soon).
More Great Accessible NJ Playgrounds
While these accessible NJ playgrounds may not have ranked the best, these playgrounds are pretty fabulous when it comes to being accessible and inclusive. At a minimum, they offer two or more of these accessible features ramps onto equipment, accessible swings, a wheelchair-accessible glider, sensory play areas, or some other piece of accessible equipment.
As we review all the NJ playgrounds reviews we’ve written over the years, we’ll continue to update this guide with playgrounds we find to have accessible playground equipment that encourages inclusive play.
More Accessible Playgrounds in North Jersey
Bergen County NJ Accessible & Inclusive Playgrounds
Overpeck County Park Playground in Leonia NJ
Read more and see all the accessible features in our guide to Overpeck County Park Playground in Leonia NJ.
Van Saun County Park and Playgrounds in Paramus NJ
Read more and see all the accessible features in our guide to Van Saun County Park and Playgrounds in Paramus NJ.
Essex County NJ Accessible & Inclusive Playgrounds
Grover Cleveland Park Playground in Caldwell NJ
Read more and see all the accessible features in our guide to Grover Cleveland Park Playground in Caldwell NJ.
Hudson County NJ Accessible & Inclusive Playgrounds
Berry Lane Park Playground in Jersey City NJ
Read more and see all the accessible features in our guide to Berry Lane Park Playground in Jersey City NJ.
Liberty State Park Playgrounds in Jersey City NJ
Read more and see all the accessible features in our guide to Liberty State Park Playgrounds in Jersey City NJ.
Morris County NJ Accessible & Inclusive Playgrounds
Montville Community Playground in Montville NJ
Read more and see all the accessible features in our guide to Montville Community Playground in Montville NJ.
Turkey Brook Park Playground in Budd Lake NJ
30 Flanders Rd, Budd Lake (Morris County)
Turkey Brook Park Playground has some great accessibility features. This fenced-in accessible play area features rubber tiles and huge castles for kids of all abilities to climb on and stretch their imaginations.
Kids will also love the colorful murals and variety of unique equipment. Parents will love the abundance of ramps, soft surfaces, shaded areas, and seating. Beyond the playground, there are lots of fields and open space for running around.
The many towers and structures at the Turkey Brook Park Playground are fun for kids to hide and play in, but they could be a challenge for parents who need clear sight lines. A splash pad is open seasonally.
Read more and see all the accessible features in our guide to Turkey Brook Park Playground in Budd Lake NJ.
Passaic County NJ Accessible & Inclusive Playgrounds
Goffle Brook Park in Hawthorne NJ
675 Goffle Road, Hawthorne (Passaic County)
While the mulch ground surface can be problematic for some Goffle Brook Park playground does offer some accessible features like a Sway Fun glider, high back spinner, and sensory play areas.
Read more and see all the accessible features in our guide to Goffle Brook Park Playground in Hawthorne NJ.
Sussex County NJ Accessible & Inclusive Playgrounds
Coming soon. Have a recommendation? Let us know in the comments below.
Union County NJ Accessible & Inclusive Playgrounds
The Loop Playground in Mountainside NJ
Read more and see all the accessible features in our guide to The Loop Playground in Mountainside NJ.
Warren County NJ Accessible & Inclusive Playgrounds
Coming soon. Have a recommendation? Let us know in the comments below.
More Accessible Playgrounds in Central New Jersey
Hunterdon County NJ Accessible & Inclusive Playgrounds
Heritage Park Playground in Asbury NJ
663 Fox Farm Road, Asbury, Bethlehem Township (Hunterdon County)
Our family LOVES the playground at Heritage Park! It has some really special equipment that makes it a truly different and fun experience for kids of all abilities.
The accessible zip line is a huge hit with all the kids! And there are a variety of activities such as a merry-go-round, a fitness trail, a gaga pit, and lots of open space. The sight lines are great and there is also plenty of shade.
I would say that this park is not wheelchair accessible given the lack of ramps and sidewalks. We were able to use it because our daughter has a medical stroller with larger wheels that we can maneuver over mulch.
The Heritage Park Playground is not fenced in, but the parking lot is adjacent to the playgrounds.
Read more and see all the accessible features in our guide to Heritage Park Playground in Asbury NJ.
Mercer County NJ Accessible & Inclusive Playgrounds
Central Park Playground in Lawrence Township NJ
Read more and see all the accessible features in our guide to Central Park Playground in Lawrence Township NJ.
Middlesex County NJ Accessible & Inclusive Playgrounds
Fords Park Playground in Woodbridge NJ
Intersection of King Georges Post Road and Park Road, Woodbridge (Middlesex County)
This park is a great oasis of fun for our family. The ground is covered in rubber matting which is very helpful for families who use strollers or wheelchairs or whose kids do not do well with mulch.
The smaller size of Fords Park Playground is great for families who like to keep everyone in close proximity as they play. It is a great little playground for getting some fresh air and energy out.
If you go at a time when there are not lots of teenagers, there is also a fenced in basketball court, for families whose children need a boundary. My kids loved to ride their scooters there. The pond on the property can be fun for kids to throw rocks in etc, but could be a caution for families with kids that are drawn to water.
The Fords Playground is not fenced in, but it sits back from the road as part of a larger Middlesex County park. There is parking nearby.
Read more and see all the accessible features in our guide to Fords Park Playground in Woodbridge NJ.
Monmouth County NJ Accessible & Inclusive Playgrounds
Ed Brown Playground in Belmar NJ
Read more and see all the accessible features in our guide to Ed Brown Playground in Belmar NJ.
George M. Conway Park Playground in West Long Branch NJ
Read more and see all the accessible features in our guide to George M. Conway Park Playground in West Long Branch NJ.
Somerset County NJ Accessible & Inclusive Playgrounds
Warren Municipal Park Playground in Warren NJ
Read more and see all the accessible features in our guide to Warren Municipal Park Playground in Warren NJ.
North Branch Park Playground in Bridgewater
355 Milltown Road, Bridgewater (Somerset County)
This little gem is a wonderfully accessible park for families with children who have extra needs. Although it is showing some wear and tear, it is set up so that the children can have fun and parents can actually relax and enjoy their time with their kids.
The playground is not usually crowded, is small and has ramps, accessible swings and even a hand cranked ride for kids.
Be aware that there is a small creek that is not fenced off between the playground and the picnic area. The North Branch Park Playground in Bridgewater is not fenced in either. There are open areas around it. There is a large parking lot just a short walk away.
Read more and see all the accessible features in our guide to North Branch Park Playground in Bridgewater.
More Accessible Playgrounds in South Jersey
Atlantic County NJ Accessible & Inclusive Playgrounds
Imagination Station Playground in Galloway NJ
A local’s favorite, Imagination Station in Galloway offers ground level sensory and pretend play on ships, trains, and more. Or take the ramp up and enjoy fun activities a little higher off the ground.
This accessible Galloway playground even has a code wall for guests that are no verbal.
The playground is fenced in and offers a very large parking lot just a few steps away.
Read more and see all the accessible features in our guide to Imagination Station Playground in Galloway NJ.
Estell Manor Playground in Estell Manor NJ
109 NJ-50, Mays Landing (Atlantic County)
This park had to make our list because of its wide variety of offerings and accessibility that are BRAND NEW. It’s one of Jenn’s favorite playgrounds and she was elated to find the newly renovated areas included accessible playground equipment. There is truly something for everyone at this fun park which actually includes a nature center and multiple playground areas!
A successful attempt to integrate accessible features such as different ground covers, lots of pretend and sensory play and even differentiated swings make this park worth the trip!
The first Estell Manor Playground that is also accessible has fencing all around with gates that lock in place. The medium-sized parking lot is adjacent to the playground.
Read more and see all the accessible features in our guide to Estell Manor Park Playgrounds in Mays Landing.
Burlington County NJ Accessible & Inclusive Playgrounds
Imagination Kingdom Playground in Pemberton Township NJ
599 Pemberton Browns Mills Road, Pemberton Township (Burlington County)
Imagination Kingdom is a great park to for kids to spread out and play. As the name suggests, kids can imagine and pretend on all the castle and horse themed elements. If your kids love climbing, they will love this park too!
The Pemberton Imagination Kingdom Playground has ramps, a sway fun glider, and rubber matting that make the space wheelchair accessible. Upper body challenges and sensory equipment also add to the fun for everyone.
Read more and see all the accessible features in our guide to Imagination Kingdom Playground in Pemberton Township NJ.
Camden County NJ Accessible & Inclusive Playgrounds
Coming soon. Have a recommendation? Let us know in the comments below.
Cape May County NJ Accessible & Inclusive Playgrounds
Sandcastle Park Playground in Ocean City NJ
Read more and see all the accessible features in our guide to Sandcastle Park Playground in Ocean City NJ.
Fox Park Playground in Wildwood NJ
Read more and see all the accessible features in our guide to Fox Park Playground in Wildwood NJ.
Cumberland County NJ Accessible & Inclusive Playgrounds
Coming soon. Have a recommendation? Let us know in the comments below.
Gloucester County NJ Accessible & Inclusive Playgrounds
Coming soon. Have a recommendation? Let us know in the comments below.
Salem County NJ Accessible & Inclusive Playgrounds
Coming soon. Have a recommendation? Let us know in the comments below.
Ocean County NJ Accessible & Inclusive Playgrounds
Coming soon. Have a recommendation? Let us know in the comments below.
New Jersey Playgrounds with Accessible Features
There’s more to making a playground accessible than just adding accessible swings. I think we’ve shown that above. Nearly any playground has the potential and space to make its playground space more inclusive. We hope NJ municipalities will use this guide as inspiration to do more with the open space they have.
Until then, we recognize that some families may be looking for a NJ playground with a specific kind of feature. With that in mind, we will be creating the following mini-guides of playgrounds.
- New Jersey Playgrounds with Accessible Swings
- New Jersey Playgrounds with Sway Fun Gliders/Wheelchair Accessible Gliders
- New Jersey Playgrounds with Sensory Play Panels or Equipment
No matter if your child has physical or learning disabilities or not or how old your child is, these NJ playgrounds have made leaps and bounds to make sure that they are accessible for everyone. Thanks to the tireless and dedicated volunteers and financial support from donors, they have integrated elements that make these playgrounds accessible and inclusive for all AND set an example for how all NJ playgrounds should be created.
“The life of a special needs child is changed by all of the folks who choose to say, ‘You matter, and I am going to take my creative energies and do something important for you.’ I am just grateful to everybody who puts their lives into making these kids’ lives better.”
April Mills
Bremerton Beyond Accessible Play
Dawn Kontos
Thursday 2nd of November 2023
These playgrounds are amazing. My question is how to get special equipment added to local town playgrounds that are accessible to children with disabilities/limitations. The current playgrounds in local towns do not accomodate a child in wheelchairs, children with issues of eloping (needing a fenced in area) or supportive swings. Any information provided would be greatly appreciated.
Jennifer Auer
Thursday 2nd of November 2023
I've found that Landscape Structures has a lot of great inclusive equipment. They have a website at https://www.playlsi.com/. I hope that helps. - JennJenn