Splash Pads, Picnics & Pickleball – Visit These Local Parks

Summer is the perfect time to enjoy the outdoors at one of our local parks. Kitsap County and the surrounding areas have many great spots to enjoy. So, we’ve compiled a list of parks we love that have splash pads, are great for picnics, and/or pickleball (America’s fastest-growing sport).

Kitsap County Parks

Battle Point Park on Bainbridge Island

This 90-acre park used to be a naval radio station. It has a large, open field that’s perfect for a picnic. The picnic structure is quite popular, so reservations are recommended. It also includes ponds, trails, a large wooden play structure, basketball, and tennis courts. Visitors can also enjoy a round of disc golf. Additionally, the park has gardening plots. However, there is currently a waitlist for the plots.

Buck Lake Park in Hansville

Spanning 155 acres and located in Hansville, this gem has lake access. In addition to swimming in the lake, you can also enjoy fishing and boating. (However, internal combustion motors and motorized boats are prohibited on the lake.) The park has bathrooms, a picnic shelter, and a small playground for younger kids.  It also offers walking and equestrian trails of the Hansville Greenway Wildlife Corridor. Plus, there’s a basketball court, a volleyball court, and tennis/pickleball courts.

Lions Park in Poulsbo

This park is right by picturesque Fjord Drive, which is a great place to walk alongside the water. Near downtown Poulsbo, this park is a fun place to have a picnic and it has a playground. There are also tennis courts that are used for pickleball as well. Interested in finding out more about who is playing pickleball and when? Check out the website Pickleheads.com for more information about games at Lions Park and the surrounding area.

Owen’s Playground on Bainbridge Island

An inclusive, barrier-free play area, Owen’s Playground includes some water features. It was designed to include adaptive play features such as the Oodle Swing and Wee-Saw. Located between two baseball fields, this playground is convenient for families of Little Leaguers to picnic and play. In addition, the playground features the work of many local artists and creators, making it a truly special space.

Silverdale Waterfront Park in Silverdale

For a waterfront picnic with saltwater beach access and much more, head to this park in Silverdale. It has a playground, a gazebo, and a picnic shelter. The small playground is perfect for young children. The gazebo can seat approximately 16 people, while 90 people can fit in the picnic shelter, making it a great spot for larger groups. If you’re interested in renting out a space, check out Kitsap County’s Facility Rental site.

Wildcat Lake Park in Bremerton

This is a popular family picnic spot in the summer that opens the last Saturday of April and stays open through October 31st. It offers lake access with an area for swimming, and fishing is also permitted.  There are also restrooms and a playground for children. Visitors are also able to rent the picnic shelter, which can house up to 48 people. As always, stay current with any lake and water advisories that are in place for any Kitsap County’s swimming beaches.

Other Great Parks Near Kitsap County

Chetzemoka Park in Port Townsend

The city of Port Townsend touts this park as the crown jewel of its park system and the first community park to be established in 1904. The park overlooks the Admiralty Inlet and Cascade Mountains. There is a gazebo and a large, grassy area that is perfect for picnics with BBQs and firepits. There are multiple play structures for children to use, as well as an ADA restroom and kitchen shelter. You can also access the beach and tidelands from the corner of the park, making it a popular place for events.

Edmonds City Park in Edmonds

If you’re ready to cool off during one of Washington’s hot summer days, Edmonds City Park has a large splash pad for visitors to enjoy. It’s open from Memorial Day to Labor Day from 10:00 AM – 8:00 PM. In addition, the park offers a great spot to picnic with a large open lawn, BBQ grills, and fire pits, as well as group picnic tables. There is even a picnic shelter available for use with reservations. Other bonuses include its playground, horseshoe pits, and a nearby baseball/softball field.

Gateway Park in Gig Harbor

This expansive park includes many fun features and amenities. The large, double playground includes a picnic shelter and picnic tables. There is also a splash pad that is open from Memorial Day to Labor Day from 10:00 AM – 6:00 PM, seven days a week. If you’re a dog owner, you can visit its off-leash dog park.  The park is located at the trailhead of the 360 Trails. These trails are open for walkers, mountain bikers, and equestrians.

Looking for other fun things to do in the Kitsap area? Check out these ideas for a staycation or a weekend getaway.