Go on an exciting outing to Rockwood Park and enjoy its large playground, five miles of paved trails, and nature center.

Rockwood Park is one of Chesterfield's most popular parks for a good reason!  The large playground has activities for toddlers and older children alike, including a tandem swing that my one and 3-year-old loved! 

Small children will also enjoy the small ride-on pony and four baby swings.  There are four big kid swings, a large slide, and a "bridge" to cross for older children.  Children of all ages love the sandbox.  It usually has plenty of toys, but you can't be sure which toys will be there from one day to the next, so if your child has a particular preference for sand toys, you are best to pack your own.  The playground has a mulch base.

There are picnic tables right in the middle of the playgrounds to see almost everything from here.  There are two benches by the sandbox, too.  Also, there is a small gazebo (our favorite snack spot) behind the large playground.  There have been yellow jackets near the sandbox during the summer months, so keep an eye out for them.  Also, a warning -- this playground is so beloved that it can become quite crowded. Daycares often use it during the summer months.  We have found that the least crowded time is any weekday morning.

Rockwood has two different paved trails.  The larger loop goes around the entire park.  The other one, our favorite, is behind the Nature Center.  You can walk to the Nature Center from the playground, or drive.  We like to drive because the kids are usually zonked after the walk.  This is entirely stroller-friendly and shaded.  There is a small pond in front of the Nature Center, that usually has some frogs to check out, too!  We love to find beautiful leaves, critters, and other natural treasures on this walk.  

Although closed through Feb. 2022 for renovations, the Nature Center is great, even if only for a quick stop.  It is completely free to stop by and check out the reptiles and amphibians.  Further, Chesterfield County Parks & Recreation offers programs throughout the year at the Nature Center.  We enjoyed the toddler classes, which include a story, craft, song, and exploration of the Nature Center.  These classes are $5, and will resume when the Nature Center reopens.

In addition to the aforementioned offerings, Rockwood Park is also home to a dog park, baseball fields, basketball courts, and a small arboretum.  Restrooms are between the Nature Center and the playground. 

To add to your adventure, stop by LaPrade Library, a branch of Chesterfield County Public Library after playing.  It is about five minutes from the park.  We love the large childrens' section, the craft kits to go, and the frequent early literacy story walks.