Your kids will love the pirate ship at Dawson Park!

Dawson Park is on the northern side of Longmont, near highway 66, giving it a gorgeous view of the mountains, specifically Longs Peak and Mount Meeker. It is also next to McIntosh Lake, a perfect spot to kayak, stand up paddleboard (SUP), and take out your small non-motorized boat. The playground is nicely positioned apart from the lake so it shouldn't be a concern for kids wandering around the play area. Truly, a peaceful gem, your whole family will love a trip to Dawson Park.

The playground is unique and lovingly referred to as the "pirate ship park" by the local neighbors. I've seen many playground ship structures and this is now one of my favorites! It is built for the younger ages (2 to 5 years) and includes many pirate ship features such as the skull and crossbones flag above, ripped sails, gangplank to board and more. There are small slides coming off the ship and rubber surfacing below to resemble the sea.

There is a sandbox at Dawson Park with cute playhouse panels and a variety of swings including two baby swings, three traditional belt swings and one accessible chair swing. Wood chips are spread through the rest of the playground which is more of an obstacle course than separate play structures. There is a thin zig-zag balance beam, circular steps, angled monkey bars, and an open slide. Your kids will also love the spherical-shaped spinner and spider web net!

Extend your trip to Dawson Park with tennis courts available or take a peaceful stroll along the 3.5-mile walking loop around McIntosh Lake. Not too far (if you walk counterclockwise around the lake) is another playground, Flanders Park.

Note: I did not see a restroom option nearby so you may need to plan ahead or find a lunch/snack spot in Longmont.