Marshall Park

Park Overview

Tucked behind the Marshall Community Center and just a stone's throw from I-5 and Clark College, Marshall Park spreads across 14 peaceful acres in Vancouver's Central Park neighborhood. This community green space at 1015 E McLoughlin Blvd is a popular gathering spot for locals of all ages.

CHAMPS Playground

The heart of Marshall Park is the Chelsea Anderson Memorial Play Station (CHAMPS), a fully inclusive playground that opened its gates in September 2023. Designed by Harper's Playground, this modern play area replaced the original 1999 structure while honoring its namesake - the daughter of Vancouver Fire Services Capt. Curt Anderson.

True to its roots, the playground maintains its charming firefighter theme with some exciting updates. The interactive firetruck play structure lets kids climb, explore, open doors, and imagine rescue missions.

Inclusive Play Features

What sets CHAMPS apart is its focus on accessibility for all children. The thoughtfully designed space includes Washington's first wheelchair swing and a community spinner that fits two wheelchairs at once - opening up the joy of spinning to all children.

The elevated sand area with its water feature provides sensory play opportunities, while "Harper's Hill" features a seating area at the top with 360-degree views. You'll often see kids sliding down the astroturf-covered hill on pieces of cardboard - a simple pleasure that never seems to get old.

The inclusive features continue with wheelchair-accessible teeter-totters and various swing options including standard, toddler, and adaptive versions. Every element has been thoughtfully designed so children of different abilities can play side by side.

Historical Elements

Amid all the new features, the park thoughtfully preserves its history. The original Chelsea Anderson brick memorial remains as a reminder of the playground's inspiration, alongside an updated donor wall acknowledging contributors to the park.

Look around and you'll spot creative touches like interactive art pieces crafted from an actual fire truck and water pump. Even the upcycled fire hydrants serve a purpose, holding plaques with descriptions in both English and Braille.

Additional Amenities

Marshall Park offers much more than simply its signature playground. The sports fields host Vancouver Parks and Recreation programs, summer camps, and activities for seniors year-round.

Teens and older kids gravitate toward the skate park area, which is particularly welcoming for beginners just getting comfortable on wheels. When it's time to refuel, numerous picnic tables dot the play areas, and a large covered picnic shelter with multiple tables makes an ideal spot for birthday celebrations or family gatherings.

Green thumbs appreciate Vancouver's largest community garden located right within the park - a thriving space where locals grow everything from flowers to vegetables.

Mature evergreens throughout the park provide natural shade. When nature calls, the Portland Loo style restrooms offer clean, private facilities complete with changing stations.

Artistic Elements

As you wander through Marshall Park, take time to appreciate the artistic touches that add character to the space. Whimsical bronze sculptures appear around corners, beautiful mosaic artwork catches the light, and the mural-painted covered picnic area brings color and creativity to everyday gatherings. These artistic elements do more than just beautify the park - they create memorable landmarks and conversation starters for everyone who visits.