Smallwood Park

A Bit of History

Smallwood Park gets its name from Don and Mary Smallwood, a couple who truly left their mark on Costa Mesa. Mary served on the city council, while Don contributed his time to the Newport Mesa Unified School District school board from 1971 to 1978. They were both actively involved in local governance and education.

What You'll Find

Positioned in a Costa Mesa neighborhood, this 3.4-acre green space sits quietly within a residential neighborhood. As an interior neighborhood park, Smallwood has expansive grassy areas where you can spread out a blanket, toss a frisbee, or simply watch the clouds drift by.

Kid Paradise

The little ones won't be bored here! Smallwood Park features not one but two separate playground areas complete with all the classics: low monkey bars, a fireman's pole, fun spinners, a challenging balance beam log, and a log tunnel for adventurous explorers. There's also a dedicated swing set area where kids can soar toward the sky.

Adding a touch of natural charm, the park has two circles of small boulders with woodchips in the center - well-suited for imaginative play or just sitting and chatting with friends.

Get Active

Feel like breaking a sweat? Head over to the basketball court for a pickup game or practice your batting skills at the baseball field. These facilities accommodate both serious athletes and casual players alike.

Take a Break

When hunger strikes, you'll discover picnic tables dotted across the grounds, with some featuring BBQ grills for those who want to cook up something tasty. Public restrooms are available - always a plus when you're spending the day outdoors - and benches provide perfect spots to rest and people-watch.

Bring Your Furry Friend

Four-legged family members are welcome at Smallwood Park. The generous grassy areas make ideal spots for dogs to chase balls or frisbees, and many local pet owners come here specifically for canine socialization time. Just remember to clean up after your pooch to keep the park beautiful for everyone.