About This Playground
🌳 The Wizard of Oz Playground is a whimsical themed playground in Maryland inspired by the classic story. It features unique play equipment designed to reflect the magical world of Oz, providing children with an imaginative play experience.
Visitor Experience: The playground generally receives positive reviews from families who appreciate the creative theming and variety of play options. Visitors particularly enjoy the thoughtful details that bring the Wizard of Oz story to life.>
More about this playground
Playground Type
Address
Kettering, MD 20774, USA
Coordinates
38.8873, -76.7949
Hours of Operation
Hours may vary during holidays. Please call ahead for confirmation.
Playground Features
Age Suitability
Designed primarily for children ages 2-12, with separate areas for toddlers (2-5) and older children (5-12).
Equipment Available
Yellow brick road pathways, Emerald City climbing structures, rainbow slide, Munchkinland playhouse, tornado tube slide, flying monkey swings, and interactive Oz character sculptures.
Shaded Areas
Limited natural shade from surrounding trees; some play areas have canopies for sun protection, particularly in the toddler zone.
Seating For Parents
Several benches positioned throughout the playground with good sightlines to monitor children, plus picnic tables in adjacent areas.
Restroom Availability
Restrooms available near the entrance to the playground during park operating hours.
Drinking Fountains
Two drinking fountains available, including one with a bottle-filling station and a lower fountain accessible for children.
Safety Accessibility
Fencing
Partial fencing around the playground area with multiple gated entrances/exits.
Surface Material
Mix of rubber safety surfacing under play equipment and engineered wood fiber in other areas for fall protection.
Ada Accessibility
Wheelchair-accessible paths throughout most of the playground with ramps to major play structures; some adaptive play equipment available.
Cleanliness Maintenance
Well-maintained with regular cleaning and inspections; occasional issues with mulch displacement under high-traffic equipment.
Additional Amenities
Nearby Parking
Free parking lot with approximately 50 spaces; additional street parking available during peak times.
Pet Policy
Pets allowed in the park but must be leashed and are not permitted within the playground area itself.
Bike Racks
Bicycle racks available near the playground entrance.
Nearby Food Options
Snack vendor during summer months; several family-friendly restaurants within walking distance of the park.
Sports Areas
Basketball courts and open field space adjacent to the playground.
Walking / Biking Trails Nearby
Connected to a 2-mile paved walking/biking trail that circles the larger park.
Community Reviews
User Submitted Photos
Abundant photos showing children enjoying the themed equipment, especially popular are shots on the yellow brick road and with Oz character sculptures.
Recent Reviews
Recent visitors praise the playground's uniqueness and creativity while occasionally noting concerns about crowds during weekends and limited shade on hot days.
Crowd Levels
Moderate to busy on weekends and summer afternoons; quieter on weekday mornings.
Special Events
Hosts occasional Oz-themed events including storytimes, costume days, and an annual Oz Festival in the summer.
User Experience
Entrance Fee
Free admission to the playground and surrounding park.
Space For Groups
Suitable for groups with nearby reservable picnic pavilions for parties; playground itself cannot be reserved.
Nature Connection
Some natural elements incorporated into the design including gardens with sensory plants and rock features.
Noise Level
Moderate noise typical of a popular playground; busier and louder on weekends.
Aesthetic Design
Thoughtfully designed with careful attention to Wizard of Oz theming; vibrant colors and creative structures that encourage imaginative play.
Safety Regulations
Security Presence
Park staff make regular rounds during operating hours; no dedicated security personnel.
Rules Restrictions
Standard playground rules posted at entrances: adult supervision required, no food on play equipment, appropriate use of structures by age/size.
First Aid Availability
First aid kit available at park office; staff trained in basic first aid during operating hours.
Community Interaction
Community Activities
Regular community events including seasonal festivals, outdoor movie nights featuring The Wizard of Oz, and occasional guided play activities.
Social Interaction
Design encourages collaborative play with several areas designed for multiple children to interact; popular meeting spot for local families.
Sustainability Environment
Eco Friendly Practices
Uses sustainable materials where possible; native plant landscaping around the playground perimeter.
Renewable Energy
Solar-powered lighting for evening hours and safety.
Walkability Bike Access
Well-connected to nearby residential areas via sidewalks and bike paths; bike racks encourage alternative transportation.
Reviews
Cleopatre Lake
a month ago
Park is open btw! Amazing park. Good for all ages. Soft ground, no wood chips. Big kid swings, baby swings, special needs swing. Musical section. Several picnic tables under pavilions. Benches around the playground. Bathrooms are closed but there is a porta potty.
View on GoogleNancy Benson
6 months ago
BEST PLAYGROUND IN THE MARYLAND/PENNSYLVANIA AREA FOR SURE!! I drove over 2 hours to take my son to this place, and it was totally worth it. You could spend the entire day at Watkins Regional Park! They have: -This playground -A nature center -A farm area - Several walking trails -An amusement area with Wizard of Oz themed mini-golf and a carousel
View on GoogleMorgan Stroud
10 months ago
My kids are a bit older and they had a great time. I didn't know about the farm so that was a bonus. They were so excited to pass through the farm to see the animals. A few were not out but those that were out made the experience great. They got their boards out to 🛹 and said the paths were perfect for boarding and turns.
View on GoogleTheresa King
8 months ago
Creative, exciting playground equipment for all ages. Water fountains..Pavillions..Restrooms..Walking trails. Nearby is a nature center, little farm, and carousel. We're new to the area and fell in love with this place. Will go again.
View on GoogleMeg Bart
3 years ago
Great playground with soft floor and amazing play structures. There is great shade and plenty of parent benches. The kids loved all the variety of play. The covered pagodas had a couple of birthday parties and it looks like a great location to plan a child's birthday and not break the bank. Love this park and will visit again.
View on Google