Arlington Heights Sports Park

Your Perfect Recreation Escape

Tucked into the Arlington Heights Greenbelt community of Riverside, California lies a 35-acre park that's popular with locals. Arlington Heights Sports Park offers a thoughtfully designed recreational space where sports enthusiasts, families, and nature lovers can enjoy various activities.

A Nod to Citrus Country

What makes this park special is how it embraces Riverside's agricultural roots. The charming farmhouse-inspired architecture immediately transports you to simpler times. As you wander through the grounds, you'll notice three distinct rows of citrus trees encircling the park - a living tribute to the area's farming heritage.

Take a moment to check out the story panels that dot the landscape; they offer fascinating glimpses into Riverside's citrus farming past. Even the little details matter here - former irrigation standpipes have been cleverly repurposed as bollards. With palm trees and orange groves visible in the surrounding landscape, you're getting an authentic slice of Southern California's agricultural story.

Sports Fields That Won't Disappoint

For those looking to get active, the park features lighted multipurpose fields where soccer and football enthusiasts can play well into the evening. Baseball fans haven't been forgotten either - the lighted baseball fields are meticulously maintained, with smooth, hole-free turf that players appreciate.

These fields were engineered for versatility. The clever grading accommodates different sports requirements, and field configurations can be adjusted to distribute wear and tear evenly. If you're watching your kids' league games or joining a community match yourself, these fields provide an ideal backdrop for athletic memories.

Something for Every Age Group

Not into team sports? No problem. The park caters to everyone with two distinct playground areas - smaller kids have their own space with age-appropriate equipment, while older children can challenge themselves on more advanced structures. You'll discover swings, slides, jungle gyms, and even some adaptive equipment for children with special needs.

On scorching summer days, the splash pad becomes the park's main attraction, offering a refreshing escape from the heat. Basketball enthusiasts can shoot hoops on the well-maintained courts, while the recreation trail lined with beautiful roses provides a scenic route for your morning jog or evening stroll. If you're looking to join a running community, you'll likely spot several local groups who regularly use these paths for their workouts.

Perfect for Gatherings

Planning a family reunion or birthday celebration? You'll find multiple gazebos and picnic shelters distributed throughout both sides of the grounds. These shaded retreats offer welcome relief from the California sun. Fire up one of the many barbecue pits scattered across the park and you've got yourself the makings of a wonderful weekend gathering.

Parents will appreciate how many of these picnic spots are positioned within eyeshot of the playgrounds - you can relax in the shade while keeping tabs on the little ones.

Practical Amenities That Matter

The designers of Arlington Heights clearly thought about the practical stuff too. You'll find two sets of restrooms on opposite sides of the park that are kept clean and functional. The lighted parking lots offer plenty of spaces, but it's worth arriving early on tournament days or busy weekends when the park fills up quickly.

Dog lovers, rejoice - your leashed four-legged friends are welcome to join you on the walking paths, making your daily exercise routine something you can enjoy together.

Recognition Where It's Due

It's not just locals who think this park is special. Since its completion in 2010, Arlington Heights Sports Park has earned professional recognition, including the 2010 Award of Excellence for Facility Design: Sports Fields/Complexes from the California Parks & Recreation Society. Not that you need an award to tell you what you can see with your own eyes - this place was designed with care.

Where Community Happens

Beyond the facilities and features, Arlington Heights Sports Park is a popular gathering spot where Riverside residents come together. Whether you're there for a league game, a family picnic, or just a quiet walk among the roses, it's a nice place to spend time outdoors.