Carmody Park & Recreation Center

A Play Space for Everyone

In 2017, Carmody Park got a major facelift that brought Lakewood's first universal playground to life - a colorful, thoughtfully designed space where kids of all ages and abilities can play together. The design aims to include children of all abilities in the fun.

The playground balances fun and functionality with equipment that encourages imagination and physical activity. With its mounds, ramps, and accessible structures, it's a place where differences in ability fade into the background of laughter and play.

We love the clever touches that make this playground special - tandem swings where parents and little ones can soar together, and slides built into hillsides that incorporate the natural landscape into playtime. Nature meets nurture in the best possible way.

Don't miss the large sandbox that's kept surprisingly clean and offers a different sensory experience for tactile explorers. And the musical instruments scattered throughout? Pure genius for budding musicians to discover rhythm and sound in the open air.

Get Your Workout On

Right next to the kids' area, you'll find the Fitness Zone - a clever setup that lets adults squeeze in some exercise while keeping an eye on the little ones. A convenient setup for parents and caregivers.

The outdoor equipment works for various fitness levels, and includes some wheelchair-accessible options too. Just note that this equipment is designed for ages 14 and up - an ideal spot for teens and adults to stay active under the Colorado sky.

Beyond the Playground

The park doesn't stop at play structures. Sports enthusiasts can enjoy well-maintained play fields, basketball courts, and pickleball courts that are regularly buzzing with local activity. A serene pond surrounded by towering cottonwood trees adds a touch of tranquility and attracts local waterfowl - bring your binoculars if you're into birdwatching.

Planning a gathering? The reservable picnic shelters and numerous tables scattered throughout make Carmody a great place for birthday parties, family reunions, or casual get-togethers. You'll need to book these spaces in advance if you want to guarantee a spot for your event.

The park's thoughtful layout offers both wide-open spaces and dedicated activity areas. And if you're looking for even more recreation options, the Carmody Recreation Center sits right next to the park with indoor and outdoor pools for year-round swimming.

The Practical Stuff

You'll discover clean, accessible restroom facilities available year-round (though the family restroom does close seasonally). The facilities are wheelchair friendly and generally well-maintained - always a plus when spending a day outdoors.

Connecting it all together are gentle trails fantastic for a morning jog or an evening stroll. These pathways make it easy to navigate between different areas of the park while enjoying some light exercise.

One heads-up: some areas of the park, especially around the playground, offer limited shade. You might want to bring sunscreen and maybe a hat during those sunny Colorado days. Shade protection is recommended during sunny days.