Shamel Park

A Piece of Riverside History

Located on Arlington Avenue, Shamel Park spreads across 9 acres of Riverside greenery. What was once the property of Lorenzo and Mary Elizabeth Darling is now a park named after Archibald D. Shamel - a member of the Riverside Park Board and plant scientist at the local Citrus Experiment Station.

Make a Splash

The heart of Shamel Park is undoubtedly its swimming complex. The main pool is ideal for serious lap swimmers, while a smaller pool caters to the little ones just finding their water wings. Local high school teams frequently make waves here, and swimming lessons are available if you're looking to improve your technique.

The main pool features a spacious chest-high section where kids can play safely, and it's heated with solar energy - a nice eco-friendly touch. The instructors focus on both safety and proper swimming form for swimmers of all ages.

If you're looking for a gentler water workout, the pool's water aerobics classes draw participants spanning generations, with special sessions that are particularly popular among seniors.

Kid-Friendly Play Spaces

The park features two distinct playground areas tailored to different age groups. Adventure-seeking kids gravitate toward the larger playground with its towering slides, challenging rope wall, spinning wheels, and fireman poles. Younger explorers will feel right at home at the smaller playground with tube slides, tunnels, and interactive features including the always-entertaining tunnel phones.

Both areas come equipped with swings, including bucket-style options for the toddler crowd, and there's a sandbox area for creative play. Worth noting is the accessibility of the equipment - the park has made efforts to ensure children with disabilities can join in the fun.

Just a heads-up: the playground areas don't offer much shade, so sunscreen and hats are your friends during warmer months.

For the Sports Enthusiasts

Baseball fans can enjoy two 200-foot fields, with the southern one sporting a scoreboard for those keeping track of the action. Both fields feature outfield fences and are meticulously maintained, regularly hosting Little League games that bring the community together.

Racket sports have a home here too, with two tennis courts offering good lighting for evening matches. In recent years, pickleball has gained serious traction, with eight striped courts now dedicated to this increasingly popular sport. Just remember to bring your own nets if pickleball is on your agenda.

Gathering Spaces

The park doesn't skimp on places to relax and recharge. Green space abounds, with picnic tables scattered strategically throughout - many nestled under shade structures. For larger get-togethers, there's a covered picnic pavilion that's ideal for birthday celebrations or family reunions.

Planning a cookout? Grills are available across the park - just remember to bring your own charcoal. These amenities accommodate everything from casual lunches to family gatherings.

Layout and Essentials

Navigating the park is a breeze thanks to wide sidewalks that trace its perimeter. The grassy areas are well-kept, offering ample room for impromptu frisbee games or walking your four-legged friends.

When nature calls, restrooms with changing areas and showers are available adjacent to the pool. Overall, the park maintains a clean, well-cared-for appearance thanks to attentive city maintenance.

Planning Your Visit

You'll find the park buzzing with activity around 9 AM and again at 4 PM, with weekends particularly lively due to Little League games and family outings. If you're driving, it's worth arriving early during peak times, as parking spaces can disappear quickly during games or special events.

Dog lovers, your pets are welcome here with plenty of open space to explore - just be sure to clean up afterward. The park welcomes visitors from 6 AM to 5 PM every day of the week.