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PLAYGROUND REVIEW: Lake Julian Park

Paddle on the lake and explore on the pirate playground

By Kaitlin O'Steen, Publisher Macaroni KID Asheville November 11, 2022

Address:

406 Overlook Extension
Arden, NC 28704


Park Features:

Fenced: no
Ground Surface: mulch and sand
Picnic Tables: yes
Restrooms: yes


Review:

Every morning, my daughter comes bursting down the stairs and declares, "What are we going to do today Momma?" I think it's really code for, "Are we visiting a new park?" as she knows one of our favorite hobbies is to check out different local parks. I want to share with you some of our local favorites so hopefully your family can add some new ones to your list!  


Nestled among lots of trees with a beautiful lake view, you can expect to see lots of ducks and gaggles of geese while swinging or sliding down the slides at the "pirate park." The main section is mulched with a variety of swing choices including a parent/baby one, spinning rides, and even a wheelchair accessible swing.  





There is a large sand pit that features turtle, seahorse, and duck rockers, giant xylophones, another spinning ride, and a spiderweb rope climb. 






There are ample picnic tables, BBQ grills, and public bathrooms. Through the week, we've found we have lots of space to play, but be warned that on weekends there is usually a crowd as it is a popular birthday party spot.  





While there is plenty of space to spread out, there is no fence so watch your little ones closely so they don't wander too close to the road. My other suggestion would be to take off and shake out all the sand and mulch from your shoes before getting back in your car to go home.


When the weather is pleasant, you might be interested in renting a paddle boat. The fee is $8 per half hour or $12 for an hour. Read about our experience here. There are even fishing passes available for $4 per day or $25 annually.  






Grab a picnic lunch and head to Lake Julian for a day of fun! 



Want to find other awesome parks in the area?  Click here to view our Buncombe County Playground Guide.

Looking for more fun in/near Asheville, NC? 

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