Lake Balboa-San Fernando Valley Treasure

Living on the "west side", I don't get out to the San Fernando Valley (aka "The Valley") much a part from work requirements. On Saturday, I decided to take my wife and kiddos to the brand new all access playground located at the Lake Balboa recreation complex. For those that are unaware, the City of Los Angeles is in the middle of a huge project to build all access playgrounds, 75 total, across the city. These playgrounds, modeled after Shane's Inspiration in Griffith Park, feature equipment that any child can play on, including those with severe handicaps. This is an amazing endeavor and one I am happy to have my tax dollars support.

Located right next to Lake Balboa is one of these enormous all access play structure as described above complete with different sections depending on the age of the child. There are smaller structures for toddlers and larger structures for the big kids. And of course, you have LOTS of sand play. I wanted to take a moment to write about this because it is difficult to find places for kids these days that are 1. free 2. safe 3. clean (except for the bathrooms. See below for more on that). This park meets these requirements. In addition, the park is nestled next to the lake which is complete with a walking path, picnic areas and lots of open space. On this day, there were numerous birthday gatherings and other types of parties complete with bouncers and other party vendors. One can rent a pavilion space from the City of Los Angeles Parks and Recreation for a mere $80. While swimming is not allowed (at least as far as I could see), there are opportunities to rent small paddle boats to take out on to the lake.

Apart from the obvious amenities is simply that this is such a beautiful part of our large city. With the kind of weather that we get in southern California, it is great to spread the word about great outdoor experiences here in L.A., especially ones that are good for families. I have lived in L.A. for over ten years, many in the Valley, and had never been to Lake Balboa. The one thing I would point out is that the bathrooms, like most city parks it seems, are not kept well. So, plan ahead. The bathrooms do not have soap or paper towels. If you care about cleanliness in bathrooms, as I hope that you do as I do, then bring some anti-bacterial gel or hand wipes. I intend to "encourage" the city to do a better job with providing clean bathrooms. Maybe you can to.

In the meantime, whether it be Lake Balboa or elsewhere, take time to check out the many parks in the City of Los Angeles. They really are doing a great job in providing lots of outdoor open space for kids and families to play and enjoy this great city with its amazing weather. Below is a link to the L.A. Parks and Rec department. Check out Lake Balboa, but also try to find a park near you. Some of the all access playgrounds are listed at the link below, but most are still being constructed.

http://www.laparks.org/dos/playground/accessibleplay.htm