Columbia Lancaster Park

Park Overview

Situated in the Northcrest neighborhood of central Vancouver, Washington, Columbia Lancaster Park spreads across a cozy 2.4 acres. This little green space serves the nearby residents with a walking path that loops around the grounds - nice for afternoon strolls or morning jogs.

A Bit of History

The park has some interesting roots, originally being part of a planned community built by the Vancouver Housing Authority in the Heights area following World War II. It bears the name of Columbia Lancaster, a Vancouver lawyer and politician who made his mark as the very first delegate representing Washington territory in the U.S. House of Representatives. Not too shabby!

Fresh New Look

2023 brought some exciting changes to this community space, with major upgrades focusing on the playground area. Out went the outdated play equipment from 1994 (which, let's be honest, was showing its age), and in came a brand-new playground with a science, technology, engineering, and math (STEM) theme.

These improvements weren't just for looks - the old equipment had fallen behind current ADA standards and was becoming a bit of a safety worry for parents and park officials alike.

Playground That Makes Learning Fun

The new STEM-themed playground is a highlight of the park. Kids can climb, slide, swing, and play on features designed to spark curiosity and imagination. Some standout elements include a mind-bending mobius climber, interactive electronic game panels that blend play with learning, and musical instruments for the budding musicians in your life.

There's also a spinning climber that's sure to bring out the giggles. What makes this playground special is how it caters to different ages - the main structure works best for kids 5-12 years old, while the little ones (2-5) can enjoy age-appropriate activities at ground level. Plus, there are hidden elements scattered throughout, creating a sense of discovery with each visit.

The vibrant colors of the playground equipment add a cheerful pop to the park's landscape.

What Else You'll Find

When it's time for a snack break, you can claim one of the several picnic tables scattered around the park. The open grassy spaces are just right for tossing a frisbee, kicking a ball around, or simply sprawling out with a good book on a sunny day.

Just a heads up - you'll want to plan ahead as there are no public restrooms at this park.