About This Playground
🌳 Hyland Play Area is a large, creative playground located within the Hyland Lake Park Reserve in Bloomington, Minnesota. Known as 'Chutes & Ladders' by locals, it features unique climbing structures, slides, and interactive play elements designed to engage children of all ages.
Visitor Experience: The playground consistently receives high ratings (4.5-5 stars) with visitors praising its variety of equipment, beautiful natural setting, and appeal to children of different ages. Many reviewers mention it as one of the best playgrounds in the Twin Cities area.>
More about this playground
Playground Type
Address
10145 E Bush Lake Rd, Bloomington, MN 55438, USA
Phone
(763) 694-7687
+1 763-694-7687
Coordinates
44.82544, -93.37148
Hours of Operation
Hours may vary during holidays. Please call ahead for confirmation.
Playground Features
Age Suitability
Suitable for children of all ages with separate areas for toddlers (2-5) and older children (5-12). The extensive climbing structures are particularly appealing to school-age children.
Equipment Available
Multiple slides (including tall tube slides), climbing walls, rope bridges, towers, swings, tunnels, spinning equipment, sensory play panels, and a unique creative castle-like structure that connects various play elements.
Shaded Areas
Limited natural shade from surrounding trees. Most play equipment is in direct sunlight, though some covered platforms and tunnels provide small shaded areas.
Seating For Parents
Several benches and picnic tables surrounding the play area, with good sightlines to monitor children at play.
Restroom Availability
Clean, permanent restroom facilities located near the playground entrance. Open during park hours.
Drinking Fountains
Multiple drinking fountains available near the restrooms and throughout the play area. Water bottle filling stations have been added in recent updates.
Safety Accessibility
Fencing
The playground is not fully fenced but is bordered by natural landscaping that creates boundaries. Some sections have low decorative fencing.
Surface Material
Engineered wood fiber mulch throughout most of the playground. Rubber surfacing in high-impact areas beneath swings and slides.
Ada Accessibility
Accessible entry points and several ground-level play features. Ramps access some elevated structures, though not all climbing equipment is accessible.
Cleanliness Maintenance
Well-maintained with regular cleaning. The Three Rivers Park District staff performs daily safety checks and promptly addresses any equipment issues.
Additional Amenities
Nearby Parking
Large, free parking lot directly adjacent to the playground with ample spaces, including designated accessible parking.
Pet Policy
Dogs are not allowed in the playground area but are permitted in other areas of the park if leashed.
Bike Racks
Multiple bike racks available near the playground entrance.
Nearby Food Options
Picnic areas with tables and grills adjacent to the playground. No permanent food vendors, but occasional food trucks during summer months and special events. Visitors typically bring their own food.
Sports Areas
The broader Hyland Lake Park Reserve includes athletic fields, disc golf, and winter activities including skiing and snowboarding.
Walking / Biking Trails Nearby
Extensive network of paved and natural trails throughout the park reserve, connecting to the playground area and offering scenic views of Hyland Lake.
Community Reviews
User Submitted Photos
Abundant photos online showing the creative structures, children playing on equipment, and panoramic views of the playground set against the natural backdrop.
Recent Reviews
Visitors consistently highlight the unique design, variety of play options, and the playground's ability to entertain children for hours. Some mention limited shade as a concern on hot days.
Crowd Levels
Typically busy on weekends and summer afternoons. Less crowded on weekday mornings and during the school year. Can become very busy during peak times (holidays and summer weekends).
Special Events
Hosts seasonal events throughout the year, including summer nature programs, guided family activities, and occasional outdoor performances.
User Experience
Entrance Fee
Free admission to the playground. The park itself may have a parking fee ($7 daily or $30 annual pass) during certain times of the year.
Space For Groups
Excellent for groups with adjacent picnic areas that can be reserved for parties and gatherings. Popular for birthday celebrations and family reunions.
Nature Connection
Set within a natural park setting with views of trees, open space, and nearby Hyland Lake. Incorporates natural elements like boulders and logs into the play environment.
Noise Level
Moderate to high during busy periods given its popularity, but the open setting helps dissipate noise.
Aesthetic Design
Creative, castle-like design with towers and bridges in earth tones that blend with the natural environment. The playground has a cohesive theme that encourages imaginative play.
Safety Regulations
Security Presence
Regular patrols by Three Rivers Park District officers. Staff members frequently present during peak hours.
Rules Restrictions
Standard playground rules posted at entrance: adult supervision required, no rough play, equipment use as intended. Park hours typically 5:00 AM to 10:00 PM.
First Aid Availability
Park staff trained in basic first aid. For emergencies, the Richardson Nature Center nearby has more comprehensive first aid equipment.
Community Interaction
Community Activities
Regular family-oriented programs throughout the year, including naturalist-led activities, seasonal celebrations, and environmental education events.
Social Interaction
Design encourages cooperative play with equipment that works best when children collaborate. Popular meeting spot for playdates and parent groups.
Sustainability Environment
Eco Friendly Practices
Part of Three Rivers Park District's sustainability initiatives, including natural landscaping, native plant restoration, and environmentally friendly maintenance practices.
Renewable Energy
Some solar-powered lighting around the park, though not specifically at the playground.
Walkability Bike Access
Well-connected to regional trail systems. Bike-friendly with dedicated paths, though most visitors arrive by car due to the suburban location.
Reviews
Michael Hecker - Park Reviewer
3 months ago
Hyland Lake Park Reserve's 'Chutes and Ladders' playground, part of Minnesota's Three Rivers Park District, is a high-quality play area designed by industry leader Landscape Structures. This playground features a unique 'Roller Slide' element, which I have incorporated into many playground projects throughout my career. The sprawling, multi-level structure offers an exciting adventure with extensive slides, climbing nets, tunnels, and rock walls. The playground is divided into age-based sections, including dedicated toddler areas, ensuring accessibility for all. However, the main playground can become crowded on warm weekends, making it challenging to keep track of children. If you're looking for a top-notch playground experience, make sure to visit this premier destination playground in the metro area.
View on GoogleAlex Bunger
4 months ago
Great park for family fun. Lake nearby but the main attraction is the giant playground. A must or kids
View on GoogleEm Pete
5 months ago
Great park for older kids 5+! (With a few small things for littler ones to do) The seating areas for parents are good and mostly covered. Fully fenced in too which is always a plus!
View on GoogleDeborah Uhlemann
3 months ago
I went to the Play Area, Chutes and Ladders, with my sons and grandchildren. Everyone got lots of exercise and had fun. The kids are ages 3 to 9. They played independently and kept checking in from time to time for drinks and snacks. It was a nice fall day and the adults sat at a picnic table talking. The kids never asked to leave and seemed happy. We had a great day and enjoyed ourselves. 😀
View on GoogleSamantha Yarbrough
2 years ago
We absolutely adore this park. We try to stop by when we are in the area because it's so huge. There is something fun for kids of every size. Its nickname "Chutes and Ladders Park" is totally accurate. So much climbing and so many slides! There are lots of picnic tables with umbrellas. We have always been able to find shade when we need it. One area of the play stations has water sprinklers when it is warm enough. There is ample parking and a nature reserve for walks or bike rides.
View on Google