La Moine Park

Playgrounds for All Ages

Positioned in a peaceful hillside neighborhood between Richmond and El Sobrante, La Moine Park (affectionately dubbed Cheese Park by locals) spans 18 acres of recreational space. This park offers something quite useful - play spaces that cater to kids at different stages of development.

The upper section houses newer play structures excellent for the preschool crowd. Little ones can climb aboard a fire truck toddler structure, test their skills on rock climbing elements, zip down slides, or soar on swings - all designed with safety in mind for those still mastering their motor skills.

The Famous Cheese Structure

Down below lies the park's claim to fame - a massive concrete play structure shaped like Swiss cheese, complete with charming mice paintings that add whimsical character. This retro playground centerpiece invites more adventurous children to explore its tunnels, climb its surfaces, and brave its wide concrete slide.

Here's a local tip: bring along some cardboard pieces to sit on for the concrete slide - it makes for a much smoother ride! Just remember to tread carefully, as the concrete surfaces can get slippery, and the structure's vintage design means it doesn't always meet modern playground safety standards.

Park Amenities and Facilities

Connecting these play zones is a generous, well-kept grassy field - meant for impromptu soccer games, frisbee tosses, or letting four-legged friends stretch their legs while you keep an eye on the kids. When hunger strikes, you can find several tables and BBQ grills scattered throughout shaded areas, making it easy to extend your visit into mealtime.

While the play areas themselves don't offer much shade, the park's mature trees create plenty of cooler spots to catch your breath. Some picnic tables hide under leafy canopies while others bask in the sunshine, giving you options regardless of whether you're escaping the heat or soaking up some rays.

Visitor Information

The thoughtful layout makes La Moine Park particularly convenient for families juggling kids of different ages. The quiet neighborhood setting offers a relaxed atmosphere compared to busier urban parks.

One thing to note before your visit: there aren't permanent restroom facilities here. A porta-potty does the job, but it's positioned a bit of a hike from where kids typically play - something to keep in mind if you're managing potty-training toddlers.

Photography and Nostalgia

Bring your camera! Between the iconic cheese structure and spacious grounds, you'll discover plenty of photo-worthy moments. There's something sweetly nostalgic about this park - many parents who scrambled through these same cheese tunnels as kids now watch their own children discover the joy of this unique playground. La Moine Park combines quirky, old-school charm with modern play options for children of various ages.