Finding the perfect park can feel like a quest for the Holy Grail. You need a playground that can entertain a toddler without giving you a heart attack, real bathrooms (a non-negotiable), and maybe, just maybe, enough shade to prevent a full-on meltdown. As a mom in Charlotte, I’ve learned that not all green spaces are created equal, especially when you have a little one in tow.
Recently, on a mission to expand our park rotation, Jamie and I visited two popular spots in Matthews: Matthews-Sardis Park and Squirrel Lake Park. While both offer a dose of fresh air, one clearly emerged as the champion for families with young or mixed-age kids. This post is my field report—the good, the bad, and the truly essential—to help you decide where to spend your next sunny afternoon.
First Stop: Matthews-Sardis Park
Our first visit was to Matthews-Sardis Park, a small, 2.8-acre park tucked away on Sardis Road. At first glance, it’s quite charming. It’s quiet, filled with trees offering ample shade, and plenty of seating.
The Playground and Amenities
The playground equipment is new and looks great, but a sticker on the equipment states it is designed for kids in the K-5 age range.There wasn't a single set of stairs for my toddler, Jamie, to climb, which is his current favorite activity. While there were four swings (two regular, two for infants) and a nice grassy area, the main play structure was out of reach for him.
The park also features a charcoal grill, benches, and a paved walking trail. It felt like a peaceful spot for a picnic, but for a family with a curious, climbing toddler, it didn't quite hit the mark. The abundance of trees also made me wonder how buggy it might get during the peak of summer.
After a short visit, we decided to pack up and head to our next destination, hoping for a more toddler-friendly adventure.
The Main Event: Squirrel Lake Park
Just a seven-minute drive away, Squirrel Lake Park was a completely different world. Located at 1631 Pleasant Plains Road, this 29-acre park was buzzing with energy. The parking lot was tight—we snagged a spot, but it was clear this place is a local favorite. We saw two different birthday parties in full swing, people heading to the Four Mile Creek Greenway connector, and a group playing on the 12-hole disc golf course.
The Perfect Playground for Mixed Ages
The playground was exactly what we were looking for. It features two main play structures: a large one for bigger kids and a smaller one perfectly sized for toddlers. Jamie had a blast on the smaller structure, and there were other fun features like a balance beam and seesaws that we could enjoy together.
One thing to note is that the ground cover is wood chips, not the soft, spongy surface you find at some other parks. This can be a bit tricky for new walkers who are still a little unsteady on their feet. Jamie took a few tumbles on the uneven surface. It’s not a dealbreaker, but if you have a wobbly new walker, a park with a softer ground might be a better choice. For families with mixed-age kids, however, this setup is fantastic, as there’s something for everyone.
Amenities That Actually Matter
Here’s where Squirrel Lake Park really shines for parents: the bathrooms. The park has a permanent restroom building with separate men's, women's, and unisex family options. All three had changing stations, which felt like hitting the jackpot. They were clean, new, and a world away from a porta-potty.
Beyond the playground, the park’s namesake lake is a big draw. A set of stairs leads down to a fishing pond with a pier and a cute fountain. Jamie loved practicing his stair-climbing skills on the way down, and we had a great time watching the water. This added element of exploration makes the park feel like a mini-adventure.
The Verdict: Which Park is Right for Your Family?
So, how do these two parks stack up for families with young children?
- Age Appropriateness: Squirrel Lake Park is the clear winner for families with toddlers or kids of different ages. The separate play structures ensure everyone has something safe and fun to do. Matthews-Sardis Park is better suited for elementary-aged children who can handle more advanced playground equipment.
- Amenities: With real restrooms, changing stations, and a wider variety of activities like disc golf and a greenway connector, Squirrel Lake Park offers a more complete and convenient experience for a longer outing.
- Atmosphere: If you’re looking for a quiet, shaded spot for a quick picnic, Matthews-Sardis is a lovely choice. But if you want a lively, energetic atmosphere with plenty to see and do, Squirrel Lake Park is the place to be.
Your Next Family Adventure Awaits
For my family, Squirrel Lake Park is the new go-to. It has everything we need for a successful park trip: engaging play areas for Jamie, clean and accessible facilities, and enough activity to keep things interesting. We will definitely be back.
Both parks have their own unique charm, and the best choice really depends on what your family is looking for on any given day. But if you have a toddler or a crew of kids with different ages and energy levels, I can confidently say that Squirrel Lake Park is one of the best spots in Matthews for a fun-filled family outing.
