Address: 19 Van Cleve St, Fort Oglethorpe, GA 30742
While this park isn’t actually in Chattanooga or even Tennessee for that matter, it is just across the state line in Georgia. The Gilbert-Stephenson park has attracted families and people of all for years with the tennis courts, sand volleyball court, swimming pool, walking track, and the former playground. In 2020, the playground got a face lift and it has been the centerpiece of the community since its grand re-opening in June 2020.
The play structure is inclusive, meaning most parts of the playground as accessible for people of all abilities. The playground meets all seven principles of inclusive playground design: fair, included, smart, independent, safe, active, and comfortable. It includes climbing, sliding, imaginative play, manipulative items, cooperative play, gathering and social spots, jump in and out elements, and looping patterns. Some specific features include:
- Lots of field space
- Tennis courts
- Sand volleyball court
- Access to the 7.5-mile long out-and-back trail, the Fort Oglethorpe Greenway
- Covered patios
- Public bathrooms
- Public pool ($5)
- 4 person see-saw
- Multiple slides (metal and plastic)
- Multiple swing sections
- Circular “tire” swing
- Rocking boat
- Age 2-5 section
- Musical items, such as metallophone, touch piano, and drums
- Calisthenic workout area
- Large play structure with a bridge
I have taken all of my children to play here, including my 14-month old, 4- and 5-year old. They all were able to find ways to play and explore according to their own interests and developmental ability. I think that this playground is really a “diamond in the rough” to the community in Chattanooga. We are so used to the Blue Cross Healthy Place in Highland Park, the Pumpkin Park, and the Imagination Station that this great park in Fort Oglethorpe goes undiscovered from many in Tennessee. It is certainly one that Chattanooga locals should try out if you are looking for a new place to play and explore!
Rating: 5/5