Best Parks & Playgrounds in Brentwood CA (2026 Guide)

ibling kissing newborn baby brother at Blue Goose Park in Brentwood CA

Last updated February 2026

Brentwood, California is home to some of the most family-friendly parks in East Contra Costa County. Whether you have toddlers just learning to climb or older kids who need room to run, there’s a playground here for every stage.

Best Parks in Brentwood CA for Kids, Toddlers & Families (Local Favorites)

Whether you’re searching for parks in Brentwood CA, Brentwood California parks, or simply a public park near you, these locations are all within city limits and easily accessible from Discovery Bay, Oakley, and Antioch.

Below, you’ll find splash pads, toddler playgrounds, shaded areas, and wide open spaces — all thoughtfully designed for growing families.

As a Brentwood family photographer and local mom, I regularly scout parks with beautiful light, safe spaces, and thoughtfully designed play structures. These playgrounds aren’t just for burning energy — they’re where everyday memories are made.

Where Are These Parks Located?

All of these parks are located in Brentwood, California (94513) in East Contra Costa County. Whether you’re searching for parks in Brentwood CA or simply looking for a public park near you, these locations are all within city limits and easily accessible from Discovery Bay, Oakley, and Antioch.

These locations are all within city limits and easily accessible from Discovery Bay, Oakley, and Antioch.

To make it easier to compare your options, here’s a quick overview of the best playgrounds in Brentwood CA.

Quick Comparison: Best Brentwood Playgrounds

Park Best For Swings Shade Splash Pad Address
Blue Goose Park Toddlers Baby + Big Kid Swings Moderate No 1765 Adams Lane
Veterans Park Big Kids Big Kid Swings Good No 3841 Balfour Rd
Brentwood City Park Downtown Baby + Big Kid Swings Good Yes 790 2nd St
Apple Hill Park Babies/Toddlers Baby Swings Moderate No 1866 Central Blvd
Creekside Park Multi-age Baby + Big Kid Swings Light No 1010 Claremont Dr
Balfour-Guthrie Park Open Fields Big Kid Swings Light No 1701 Balfour Rd
Rainbows End Park Summer Splash Baby + Big Kid Swings Moderate Yes 1626 Marina Way

Brentwood Parks With Swings (Toddler-Friendly Options)

Looking specifically for a park near you with swings?

These Brentwood parks include standard and toddler swings:

  • Blue Goose Park

  • Veterans Park

  • Brentwood City Park

  • Creekside Park

Swings are often the first thing toddlers gravitate toward — and they’re perfect for natural, joy-filled candid photos.

🛝1) Blue Goose Park (Best Playgrounds for Toddlers)

Blue Goose Park in Brentwood CA features:

  • A toddler-friendly playground area

  • Standard swings and bucket swings

  • Open lawn for picnics

  • Walking paths around the park

If you’re searching for Blue Goose Park photos or information about the Blue Goose Park playground in Brentwood CA, this is one of the most popular parks in the city. It’s especially ideal for younger children who are just building confidence on play structures. Additionally, the open grassy field makes it easy for parents to relax nearby while keeping a close eye on little ones.

🌳2) Veterans Park (Best for Active Kids)

Address: 3841 Balfour Road, Brentwood, CA 94513. Waze

Best for: Active kids and wide-open play

Veterans Park is spacious and well maintained, with plenty of room to run, climb, and explore. Mature trees offer shade for breaks and snacks, and there’s ample parking, making it a convenient option for longer outings. On the other hand, if you have energetic older kids, Veterans Park offers more space to run and explore. Because of its size, it’s also great for birthday gatherings and larger playdates.

Blue Goose Park playground in Brentwood CA

🌿3) Brentwood City Park

Best for: Downtown convenience and variety

Address: 790 2nd Street, Brentwood, CA 94513. Yelp

Located near downtown, Brentwood City Park is perfect for a full morning out — playtime, a nearby treat, and even a farmers market stroll on select days. With grass, pathways, and mature trees, it’s one of the most versatile parks in the city. In addition, Brentwood City Park includes a splash pad, making it a popular choice during hot summer afternoons.

🍎4) Apple Hill Park (Best Playgrounds for Toddlers)

Best for: Babies, toddlers, and quieter play

Address: 1866 Central Blvd, Brentwood, CA 94513. WazeMapQuest

Apple Hill Park is peaceful and calm, with walking paths and open lawns that invite slower, more relaxed play. It’s a wonderful choice for families with babies, new walkers, or anyone easing back into outdoor outings.

🚲5) Creekside Park

Best for: Multiple ages and meet-ups

Address: 1010 Claremont Drive, Brentwood, CA 94513. WazeMapQuest

A neighborhood favorite, Creekside Park offers playground equipment, paths, and courts. There’s room for bikes and scooters, making it ideal for families with children of different ages who want to play together.

⚽6) Balfour-Guthrie Park (Best for Active Kids)

Best for: Group play and open fields

Address: 1701 Balfour Road, Brentwood, CA 94513. Wazeanc.apm.activecommunities.com

With large open fields and plenty of space to spread out, Balfour-Guthrie Park is great for playdates, birthday picnics, or casual games while younger kids explore the playground nearby.

💦7) Rainbows End Park (Best for Summer Days with a Splash Pad!)

Best for: Summer days and splash play

Address: 1626 Marina Way, Brentwood, CA 94513. Brentwood CA

Rainbows End Park is a lifesaver during warm Brentwood summers. The splash feature keeps kids cool and entertained, so pack towels and a change of clothes — they won’t want to leave.

Things to Do With Toddlers in Brentwood CA

If you have little ones at home, for example, these parks are especially toddler-friendly:

  • Blue Goose Park – smaller slides and low climbing structures

  • Apple Hill Park – calm, slower-paced layout

  • Rainbows End Park – splash pad fun in summer

Pair park time with:

  • Brentwood Farmers Market

  • Downtown Brentwood coffee shops

  • Library story time

Overall, outdoor park days are one of the easiest free toddler activities in Brentwood CA.

FAQ: Brentwood Parks & Playgrounds

What is the best park in Brentwood CA for toddlers?
Blue Goose Park and Apple Hill Park are ideal for toddlers due to smaller play structures and open grassy areas. For that reason, they’re often recommended for families with children under five.

Does Brentwood have parks with splash pads?
Yes — Brentwood City Park and Rainbows End Park both include splash features that are especially popular during warm summer months.

What are the best parks near downtown Brentwood?
Brentwood City Park is centrally located at 790 2nd Street and is within walking distance of downtown.

Are there shaded parks in Brentwood CA?
Veterans Park and Brentwood City Park offer mature trees and shaded seating areas.

Keep Exploring Brentwood With Kids

If you’re planning more family outings, you may also enjoy:

  • Find Support With 3 Great Mom Groups in Brentwood, CA

  • 5 Things To Do In Discovery Bay, Brentwood & Livermore, CA

  • Things To Do In Brentwood, CA

🌟Bonus: Newer/Updated Play Spots to Watch

Brentwood continues to refresh and improve its parks. Keep an eye on city updates for newly renovated playgrounds. For example, Egret Park recently got a new play structure at 580 Eileen Street—worth a peek if you’re nearby. Facebook

🌼 How to Choose the Best Playground for Your Family

Age & stage:
Toddlers often prefer smaller structures and grassy areas (Blue Goose, Apple Hill), while older kids love room to roam (Veterans, Balfour-Guthrie).

Shade & timing:
Morning and late afternoon are most comfortable and easiest on little ones. Midday sun can be harsh, so look for parks with mature trees.

Amenities:
For longer stays, check whether restrooms, picnic tables, or shaded seating are available.

Want Family Photos at One of These Brentwood Parks?

Many of my family sessions take place at Blue Goose Park, Veterans Park, and Brentwood City Park because they offer:

  • Beautiful golden hour light

  • Space for kids to move naturally

  • A relaxed, candid atmosphere

If you’re already planning a park day, then it’s the perfect opportunity to turn it into a memory-preserving session. Instead of just taking quick phone snapshots, you can walk away with a full gallery of meaningful images. Many expecting moms choose these same parks for relaxed outdoor maternity sessions. Because spring and fall are the most popular seasons for outdoor family photos in Brentwood, weekend dates tend to book first. Limited weekend availability during peak seasons.

👉 Book your Brentwood family photography session here!

📸 Photo Tips from a Brentwood Family Photographer

  • Dress kids in soft neutrals or earth tones for a timeless look

  • Bring bubbles, books, or a ball to encourage natural interaction

  • Capture the story: arrival, play, and snack-time cuddles

  • Let kids lead — candid moments always win over forced poses

By Vanessa Montano, a Brentwood-based family photographer serving Brentwood, Discovery Bay, the East Bay, and the greater Bay Area.


Content updated February 2026 for accuracy and helpfulness.

Best parks in Brentwood CA for toddlers

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