Marla Dorrel Park

Where Everyone Gets to Play

Set in Cary, North Carolina, Marla Dorrel Park spreads across 17.3 acres of community space, home to the remarkable Kids Together Playground. What makes this park special? It's all about inclusive play - a place where children of all abilities can laugh, explore, and just be kids together.

At the heart of the park sits the Kids Together Playground, a thoughtfully designed 2-acre playground built with universal design principles. This isn't just talk - it's a real commitment to making sure every child, regardless of physical or mental abilities, can join in the fun without barriers.

Play Your Way

Wander through the playground and you'll notice how cleverly it's organized. Play structures offer different challenge levels, wheelchair-accessible ramps are integrated throughout, and the equipment is designed so kids of all abilities can play side by side. There are distinct zones for different age groups - toddlers have their space, as do younger children and the older crowd.

You can't miss Katal, the massive dragon climbing structure that dominates the landscape. This isn't just any playground feature - it's practically the park's mascot. The dragon and its cluster of eggs are popular for climbing and photos.

The park offers a variety of swings. There are chair swings with secure harnesses for children with special needs, traditional swings for the purists, a swinging platform with wheelchair access, and even a dedicated wheelchair swing. Across the park, sand play areas offer tactile fun for sensory exploration.

Comfort Is Key

Even on those scorching Carolina summer days, the park remains enjoyable thanks to thoughtful shade planning. Mature trees create natural canopies, while shade sails stretch over certain play zones. Wide, smooth pathways wind through the entire park, making it a breeze to navigate with wheelchairs or strollers.

Don't forget to check out the quirky purple whisper benches along the paths, as well as the wheelchair-accessible sand tables that ensure everyone can join in the creative play.

Something for Every Age

Got little ones? The partially enclosed toddler area provides peace of mind with its playhouse, flowing river of sand, water features, and pint-sized climbing structures. On hot days, the misting garden provides relief with its refreshing water sprays.

Beyond the playground itself, the park offers plenty of other recreational options. There's a basketball court for shooting hoops, a skate area for the board enthusiasts, and picnic spots for when snack time calls. Active visitors appreciate the connection to the Hinshaw Greenway, a 1.7-mile paved trail that links to other parts of Cary - meant for a family walk, hike, or bike ride.

All the Conveniences

Planning a gathering? The large pavilion with picnic tables can be reserved for birthday parties or family events. Nearby, you'll discover clean restrooms equipped with changing tables and lower sinks that give smaller children the independence to wash their hands without a boost.

Across the grounds, there are plenty of benches, picnic tables, and shaded spots to catch your breath or enjoy a packed lunch. If you're in the mood for grilling, designated areas let you cook up a proper outdoor meal. The clean, well-maintained grounds are appreciated by families from throughout the Triangle region.