Directions and Parking: To get to the playground area, go to S 20th St and Smith St. It will appear as though Smith St is a dead end. Keep driving! At the end of the street, turn right and the parking lot will be a bit further ahead. You will be parking by the tennis courts which are adjacent to the playground.
Playground: The playground has two areas, the first area has a two slides, two climbing structures and a merry-go-round. The playground is mostly metal and has play equipment similar to what a lot of us grew up with. Since it is metal, it does heat up when in the sun. But there are beautiful, mature, large trees in the park that provide a lot of shade. The second play area has monkey bars and three swings, one is a baby swing. Both play areas are sand with lots of small rocks (bring your sand toys!) My kids had a hard time with their Crocs on and the second time we went they wore close-toed shoes.
Bathrooms: The bathrooms are nowhere near the playground. It would be quite a walk to them. They are on the other side of the park closer to Van Dorn and 17th Street.
Other: This is a great park for a picnic with lots of grassy areas, flowers and picnic tables. The playground side of the park butts up against homes. It is a quiet area. I wouldn't recommend bringing bikes or scooters for your kids to ride. There are sidewalks around the playgrounds but they lead directly to the street or sidewalks next to the street.
Overall: With the tennis courts, Irvingdale pool (open late on Wednesdays and Fridays) and the playgrounds, you could easily spend an afternoon or evening at this park.
