7 Fantastic Playgrounds in Brentwood, California (Local Mom-Approved Guide)
If you’re hunting for clean, kid-friendly playgrounds around town, this list has you covered. As a Brentwood Family Photographer (and the Brentwood Newborn Photographer many of you find when your family is growing!), I’m constantly scouting parks with great lighting, varied backdrops, and space for little ones to explore. Below are seven of my favorite Brentwood playgrounds, complete with addresses, standout features, and quick photo tips so you can capture the magic between professional sessions.
1) Blue Goose Park
Address: 1765 Adams Lane, Brentwood, CA 94513. Brentwood CA
Why families love it: Blue Goose blends a colorful play structure with open lawn and pathways. It’s tidy, centrally located, and has that “classic neighborhood park” feel—ideal for toddlers and early elementary ages.
Photographer’s tip: Visit in the last hour before sunset for warm rim-light on the play structure. Sit your child on the lower steps of the structure facing away from the sun for soft, even skin tones.
2) Veterans Park
Address: 3841 Balfour Road, Brentwood, CA 94513. Waze
Why families love it: Spacious and well-maintained with plenty of room to run, this park doubles as a community hub. There’s ample parking and big, shady trees perfect for breaks (and snacks).
Photographer’s tip: Use the tree line as a natural backdrop. Have kids race toward you on a wide path; set your phone to burst mode for joyful, candid frames.
3) Brentwood City Park
Address: 790 2nd Street, Brentwood, CA 94513. Yelp
Why families love it: Right near downtown, Brentwood City Park is convenient for a full morning out—playtime, a treat nearby, and maybe a stroll at the farmers market when it’s on. The variety (grass, paths, and mature trees) makes it a go-to for mini photo sessions.
Photographer’s tip: Early mornings offer beautiful, gentle light bouncing off nearby buildings. Seat the family on a picnic blanket and frame the scene so trees fill the background, minimizing visual clutter.
4) Apple Hill Park
Address: 1866 Central Blvd, Brentwood, CA 94513. WazeMapQuest
Why families love it: Apple Hill Park is peaceful with walking paths and lawns that invite slower, more relaxed play—great for babies and new walkers. If you’ve recently welcomed a little one, this is a calm spot to test that first stroller outing.
Photographer’s tip: Bring a neutral swaddle or muslin blanket for tummy-time portraits on the grass. Keep baby shaded and shoot from directly above for sweet, simple compositions—perfect keepsakes between sessions with your Brentwood Newborn Photographer.
5) Creekside Park
Address: 1010 Claremont Drive, Brentwood, CA 94513. WazeMapQuest
Why families love it: A neighborhood favorite with play features, courts, and paths. It’s an easy “meet-up” park with space for bikes and scooters—ideal for siblings of different ages.
Photographer’s tip: For action shots, place yourself at the end of a low slide or along a scooter path and pre-focus on a spot. Ask your child to pass through your frame; tap the shutter repeatedly to catch the best mid-giggle moment.
6) Balfour-Guthrie Park
Address: 1701 Balfour Road, Brentwood, CA 94513. Wazeanc.apm.activecommunities.com
Why families love it: With open fields and courts, Balfour-Guthrie is perfect for spreading out—birthday picnics, playdates, or a casual game while the littlest ones toddle around the playground.
Photographer’s tip: Use the wide fields for “walking hand-in-hand” portraits. Keep the sun behind your family to avoid squinting; step back and let a long walkway or fence line lead the eye through the frame.
7) Rainbows End Park (Splash Pad!)
Address: 1626 Marina Way, Brentwood, CA 94513. Brentwood CA
Why families love it: During our hot Brentwood summers, the small splash feature is a lifesaver. Pack towels and a change of clothes—your kids will not want to leave.
Photographer’s tip: Fast shutter speeds are your friend with water play. If you’re using a phone, tap and hold to lock focus/exposure on your child’s face, then shoot bursts as the water arcs behind them.
Bonus: Newer/Updated Play Spots to Watch
The City occasionally refreshes play structures around town—keep an eye on city updates and social pages for news. 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 sand/grass areas (Blue Goose, Apple Hill), while big kids love room to roam (Balfour-Guthrie, Veterans).
Shade & Timing:
Morning and golden hour are easiest for photos and comfort. Midday sun can be harsh, so look for shaded areas under mature trees (Brentwood City Park, Veterans).
Amenities:
If you need restrooms or picnic areas for a longer stay, check the park’s official listings before you go. The City of Brentwood’s Parks & Recreation site is a great starting point for current details and rentals. Brentwood CA+1
Photo Tips from a Brentwood Family Photographer
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Dress the part: Soft neutrals and earth tones photograph beautifully at Brentwood parks. Avoid large logos; add texture (knits, gauze) for visual interest.
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Keep hands busy: Bubbles, a favorite book, or a small ball encourage natural interaction and genuine smiles.
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Think like a storyteller: Capture a beginning (shoes going on), middle (climbing, swinging), and end (snack time cuddle). You’ll love the mini-story this creates in your camera roll.
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Don’t force it: Let kids lead for 10 minutes, then gently suggest one “all-together” moment. Candid beats posed—every time.
Planning a Session? Let’s Make It Easy.
Whether you’re dreaming up playful park portraits or a cozy in-home session with your new baby, I’m here to help you document this season with authenticity and ease. As a Brentwood Family Photographer, I guide you to the right park, the best time of day, and flattering outfits you already own. And as your Brentwood Newborn Photographer, I specialize in gentle, baby-led sessions that preserve those fleeting first weeks.
Ready to chat about your next session? Tell me which playground your kids love most, and we’ll plan a stress-free, memory-packed photoshoot you’ll treasure for years.
