Nature Calls at Kwiatkowski Playground

This shady roadside park and playground, only about a 10 minute drive away, is barely into Denville and easily accessible via Route 10 West or Route 53 East. Its proper name is the Francis A. Kwiatkowski Memorial Park of Beacon Hill.

Be prepared to drive over the curb to park in front or to the side of this completely fenced playground. You can bring snacks to share on the nearby picnic tables. Also bring along a basketball or remote-control cars for the paved basketball court.

There are plenty of opportunities for experiential learning while you play too.

Check the box that hangs just inside the entrance for a nature activity created by four girls from Denville Junior Girl Scout Troop #005. You don’t need anything other than a piece of paper and a pen.

Follow the 13-step instructions found inside. You will learn about the signs of a compass and about the nature around you.

Once you’re done, discover the map of the United States that offers separate detail on the northeast.  Or have fun on the numbered climbing wall.

Train lovers will be excited to see one here, and you'll also find a corkscrew slide, swings and lots to climb.

The way the equipment is structured lends itself to “obstacle course” play, so be prepared to get some exercise! 

Follow Parks Road to Route 53 and stop for refreshments at the Foodtown shopping plaza or head in the opposite direction and back out to Route 10 East to visit the Color Me Mine pottery studio or the brand new Yogurtland in the Shoppes at Union Hill.

Amy Lamperti is the publisher of The Playground Guide and co-owner of www.njplaygrounds.com. For more details on playgrounds all over New Jersey, visit the website or follow NJ Playgrounds on Facebook.