Utah's Best All-Ability Parks 2026
Summer in Utah is a magical time, full of sunshine and opportunities for outdoor adventure. But for parents of neurodivergent children, or those with varying physical abilities, finding accessible play spaces can often feel like searching for a needle in a haystack. I hear this frustration from so many of my clients and I've experienced it firsthand myself.
A few years ago I was planning a field trip for a group of children I was working with. The goal was simple: find an adaptive park where every child could play safely and joyfully. But as I started my research, I quickly realized how challenging it was. I couldn't find a guide online that detailed not just where the parks were, but what made them adaptive. We specifically wanted a park that was fully enclosed for children with elopement tendencies and had wheelchair-accessible activities to ensure everyone could participate. The amount of time I spent looking at park photos online was overwhelming, I ended up having to physically drive to different parks to find one that met my needs. It was clear that parents needed a better resource.
That experience is exactly why I created this Utah all-ability parks guide, so you can spend less time researching and more time playing this summer.
Why All-Ability Parks Are Essential for Neurodivergent Kids
Play is not just fun, it's a fundamental part of development for all children. For neurodivergent children, particularly those on the autism spectrum, or children with physical disabilities, the right play environment can be transformative. It’s about more than just having a ramp, it’s about thoughtful designs that support sensory processing, motor development, and social connection.
The Science of Inclusive Play
Our brains are wired to learn through experience, and play is a primary teacher.
- Sensory Processing: Many neurodivergent children experience the world through heightened or dampened sensory systems. All-ability parks often incorporate elements that cater to diverse sensory needs. For instance, swings provide vestibular input (sense of movement and balance), while various textures and water features offer tactile stimulation. This can help children regulate their sensory systems in a safe and engaging way, which is crucial for emotional regulation and learning.
- Motor Development: Accessible equipment, like wide ramps, adaptive swings, and ground-level play structures, allows children with varying physical abilities to engage their gross motor skills. This not only builds strength and coordination but also fosters a sense of accomplishment and independence. The CDC emphasizes the importance of physical activity for all children, highlighting that inclusive environments are key to ensuring everyone can participate.
- Social-Emotional Growth: Inclusive play spaces naturally encourage interaction among children of all abilities. When children play together, they learn empathy, cooperation, and how to navigate social cues in a supportive environment. This shared experience helps reduce feelings of isolation and builds self-esteem.
What Makes a Park "All-Ability"?
When I talk about an "all-ability" or "adaptive" park, I'm referring to a park that removes the common barriers to play. Here are some key features I look for:
- Accessible Surfacing: Instead of wood chips or sand, these parks often use rubberized surfaces or pour-in-place rubber. This provides a smooth and stable surface that is easy for wheelchairs, walkers, and children with balance challenges to navigate.
- Ramps and Transfer Systems: Play structures are designed with wide ramps, allowing children using mobility devices to access different levels and activities, rather than just stairs.
- Adaptive Swings: Beyond traditional swings, you'll find bucket swings with harnesses, chair swings, and even tandem swings designed for a child and caregiver to swing together.
- Sensory Play Elements: Musical instruments, textured panels, water features, sand tables, and quiet zones offer varied sensory experiences without being overwhelming.
- Fenced or Enclosed Areas: For children with elopement tendencies or those who need clear boundaries, a fully fenced perimeter provides a crucial layer of safety and peace of mind for parents.
- Wheelchair-Accessible Equipment: This includes ground-level merry-go-rounds that can accommodate wheelchairs, accessible sand diggers, and interactive panels at various heights.
- Shade and Seating: Ample shade structures and comfortable seating allow for sensory breaks and caregiver comfort.
My Recommended All-Ability Parks in Utah
I'm excited to share some of my favorite all-ability parks across Utah. Remember, features can change so it's always a good idea to check the park's official website before your visit!
Northern Utah
Adventure Playground at Whittier Community Center (Logan)
Location: 290 N 400 E, Logan, UT 84321
Adaptive Features:
- Wheelchair Accessible? Yes
- Fully Fenced? Yes
Notes: This is the only fully accessible playground in Cache Valley. The park has a castle-themed design with a huge play structure, fully fenced with a single entrance/exit, and two separate play zones (ages 5+ and toddlers).
George S. Eccles Dinosaur Park Playground (Ogden)
Location: 1544 E Park Blvd, Ogden, UT 84401
Adaptive Features:
- Wheelchair Accessible? Yes
- Fully Fenced? No
Notes: This park was updated in July 2025 and I love it! It is connected to the Dinosaur Museum so the park is dinosaur themed. It is fully wheelchair accessible and there's a wheelchair-transferable glider path with sensory rollers so kids with limited mobility can pull themselves through for a climbing and sensory experience. Ramps reach every single level, and the surfacing is rubberized throughout. They also have a small pond where you can feed fish, so make sure to bring quarters for the fish food. One of my favorites in Northern Utah!
Chloe’s Sunshine Playground at Centennial Park (Syracuse)
Location: 1800 South 2000 West Syracuse, UT 84075
Adaptive Features:
- Wheelchair Accessible? Yes
- Fully Fenced? Yes
Notes: This playground was made possible by a local Syracuse mom with a daughter with cerebral palsy and West syndrome and used a wheelchair. She spent 6 years pitching the idea and getting it constructed! The playground includes accessible swings with high backs and harnesses, sound-play components like drums and marimbas, and visually-impaired play features with Braille panels and interesting textures for sensory input. It also is fully fenced with a single entrance/exit.
Salt Lake County
Sugar House Park (Salt Lake)
Location: 1330 E 2100 S, Salt Lake City, UT 84106
Adaptive Features:
- Wheelchair Accessible? Yes
- Fully Fenced? No
Notes: While Sugar House Park isn't the best in terms of all-ability it has lots of walking paths, big grassy fields, accessible swings and flooring, as well as a duck pond. It's overall a good family park with some accessible features.
Liberty Park - Rotary Play Park (Salt Lake) - Currently CLOSED for renovations
Location: 600 Harvey Milk Blvd, Salt Lake City, UT 84105
Adaptive Features:
- Wheelchair Accessible? Yes
- Fully Fenced? No
Notes: While currently closed for the 2026 season I included it in this list because Rotary Play Park is undergoing a huge remodel to make it an all-ability park. The plan is to have a huge communication board for non-verbal kids, wheelchair accessible activities, a sensory sound garden, and more! Read here about the renovation plan. It is expected to be done in October 2026
Magna Regional Park (Magna)
Location: 4042 S 7200 W, Magna, UT 84044
Adaptive Features:
- Wheelchair Accessible? Yes
- Fully Fenced? No
Notes: While not a full all-ability park, it has many smooth walkways and ramps for wheelchairs and sensory friendly elements such as a sandpit and a splash pad with a waterfall feature. It also has a separate toddler playground.
Veterans Memorial Park/Wild West Playground (West Jordan)
Location: 1985 W 7800 S, West Jordan, UT 84088
Adaptive Features:
- Wheelchair Accessible? Yes
- Fully Fenced? Yes
Notes: I grew up going here so it's one of my favorite parks in general. As far as accessibility goes there's cushioned rubber flooring throughout, a ramp up onto the playground, and an adaptive rocker glider that kids in wheelchairs can access. It is fully fenced with a single entrance/exit and has a cowboy/wild west theme.
Sierra Newbold Playground at Ron Wood Park (West Jordan)
Location: 5900 New Bingham Highway, West Jordan UT 84081
Adaptive Features:
- Wheelchair Accessible? Yes
- Fully Fenced? No
Notes: This one was built to be all-ability and it shows! There are adaptive swings including a special wheelchair swing, ramps onto the playground, and inclusive toys throughout. It also has a splash pad, which makes summer visits extra fun. It's one of the more accessible options in the Salt Lake County area.
East Riverfront Park (South Jordan)
Location: 10900 S River Front Pkwy, South Jordan, UT 84095
Adaptive Features:
- Wheelchair Accessible? Yes
- Fully Fenced? No
Notes: East Riverfront Park is a solid all-ability option in South Jordan. It has smooth flooring, ramp access to the play structures, and an all-ability rocker glider. It's a well-maintained park with a riverfront setting. It's not the biggest or flashiest on this list, but it does the job.
L&L Hamilton Park (Herriman)
Location: 13475 S 6400 W, Herriman, UT 84096
Adaptive Features:
- Wheelchair Accessible? Yes
- Fully Fenced? No
Notes: L&L Hamilton Park has a ramp up to the play equipment and an accessible design, though it is on the smaller side. Overall a great option if you're in the area.
Day Ranch Park (Bluffdale)
Location: 15345 S Puma Mountain Wy, Bluffdale, UT 84065
Adaptive Features:
- Wheelchair Accessible? Yes
- Fully Fenced? No
Notes: This was build as an all-ability park, it has a We-Go-Round carousel that kids in wheelchairs can roll directly onto, a We-Saw that offers motion play for all abilities, large bucket swings with harnesses, ramps to every play structure, and the zipline also has an accessible seating option. There are spinny chairs for sensory seeking kids and a butterfly scavenger hunt built into the park design is a fun addition.
Draper City Park (Draper)
Location: 12500 S 1300 E, Draper, UT 84020
Adaptive Features:
- Wheelchair Accessible? Yes
- Fully Fenced? No
Notes: Draper City Park has a ramp to the play area, smooth surfacing, and some adaptive toys. There's also an interactive electronic game that kids of all ages seem to love. It's not a large all-ability destination park, but it's a great neighborhood option if you're in the Draper area.
Utah County
Highland Family Park (Highland)
Location: 5691 W 10400 N St, Highland, UT 84003
Accessible Features:
- Wheelchair Accessible? Yes
- Fully Fenced? No
Notes: Highland Family Park was built to be inclusive. It has a wheelchair swing, ramp access, and spinning toys for sensory input. It also has a ninja course, a toddler playground, and a walking path. Be aware that this park is huge and it's easy to lose sight of your children, if you have kids with elopement tendencies I would probably avoid this park (unfortunately).
Lehi Family Park (Lehi)
Location: 1999 N 600 E St, Lehi, UT 84043
Accessible Features:
- Wheelchair Accessible? Yes
- Fully Fenced? Yes
Notes: This is a new aviation themed park that was build for all-abilities and I really enjoyed it! There are wheelchair accessible equipment, sensory toys, a splash pad, and even a sensory garden. It is also fully fenced with a single entrance and exit. If you're in Lehi definitely give this one a try.
Shay Park (Saratoga Springs)
Location: 516 W Aspen Hills Blvd, Saratoga Springs, UT 84045
Accessible Features:
- Wheelchair Accessible? Not Really
- Fully Fenced? No
Notes: Shay Park has a fun train theme that kids absolutely love, musical instruments on the playground, and a mini train ride on the 1st and 3rd Saturday of each month. However, compared to others on this list, it is not a full all-ability park. I included Shay Park because I find the train ride very unique and fun for all kids! I would recommend going on a Saturday and enjoying the train ride, make sure to check their Facebook page for dates and times. Please note that there are some wheelchair accessible parts of the park but the playground base is wood chips.
All Together Playground at City Center Park (Orem)
Location: 100 N Center St (200–298 100 N), Orem, UT 84057
Adaptive Features:
- Wheelchair Accessible? Yes
- Fully Fenced? Yes
Notes: This was Utah County's first all-ability playground and families of children with disabilities were consulted on the design. There are wheelchair-accessible ramps, an accessible wheelchair swing, an interactive NEOS 360 sensory game system, and dual ziplines - one with an accessible seat. There is also wheelchair-accessible restrooms with adult-size changing tables on-site. It is fully fenced with one entrance/exit.
Adventure Heights All-Abilities Park (Spanish Fork)
Location: 1321 E Canyon Rd, Spanish Fork, UT 84660
Adaptive Features:
- Wheelchair Accessible? Yes
- Fully Fenced? Yes
Notes: This is one of the best all-ability parks in Utah! It has adaptive swings for wheelchair users, a treehouse, splash pad, water tables, along with a Sensory Garden that has musical instruments, tactile activities, and interactive toys for sensory exploration. It also has wheelchair accessible bathrooms and adult-size changing tables. It's a huge park with so much to do, definitely check it out!
Cook Family Park (Pleasant Grove)
Location: 724 North 600 West, Pleasant Grove, UT 84062
Accessible Features:
- Wheelchair Accessible? Yes
- Fully Fenced? No
Notes: Cook Park is an all-ability park with sensory play panels, accessible toys, and smooth grounds. It also has a big splash pad with a Viking ship in the middle of it. It also has a skate park, pump track, and basketball courts with lowered hoop options.
Southern Utah
Thunder Junction All Abilities Park at Tonaquint Park (St. George)
Location: 1851 S Dixie Dr, St. George, UT 84770
Accessible Features:
- Wheelchair Accessible? Yes
- Fully Fenced? Yes
Notes: Thunder Junction is one of the original all-ability parks in Utah and has a fun dinosaur theme. Everything here is wheelchair accessible and they have a sensory music garden with instruments and textured surfaces. Other features include a dinosaur dig pit, a splash pad, and an accessible train ride! The train summer hours are Monday through Saturday from 9 am - 3 pm and it's $2 a person. Check their Facebook page to ensure there's no closures before you go. This is one of the top all-ability parks in Utah (in my opinion!)
Rotary All-Abilities Playground at Dixie Springs Park (Hurricane)
Location: 3605 W 2900 S, Hurricane, UT 84737
Accessible Features:
- Wheelchair Accessible? Yes
- Fully Fenced? No
Notes: This park is amazing and has wheelchair ramps to all the play stations, an adaptive rocking glider, xylophone and musical instruments, sensory tactile panels, and a scavenger hunt throughout the playground. It's located in the Dixie Springs Park which also has two other playgrounds, a splash pad, walking path, and dog park. I liked this one because it has three different playgrounds so it didn't seem as crowded and hectic as other parks.
Tips for a Smooth Park Visit
To make your visit to these wonderful parks as enjoyable as possible, I always recommend a little preparation:
- Go Early or Late in the Day: I've found that the parks tend to get busiest in the middle of the day. When I've gone at 9am or 6pm it's been a lot quieter. Sometimes we'll go at dinnertime and bring a picnic dinner to eat at the park!
- Pack Smart: Bring sensory tools like noise-canceling headphones, fidget toys, or comfort items if your child typically uses them. Don't forget water, snacks, sunscreen, and a change of clothes if water features are involved!
- Talk About It: Before you go, chat with your child about what to expect. You can show them pictures or videos of the park. If you're looking for more support on preparing your child for new experiences, I often discuss strategies for Smooth Summer Transitions for Neurodivergent Kids with my clients.
- Embrace Flexibility: Sometimes, even with the best plans, things don't go as expected. Be prepared to adjust, take breaks, or even leave early if your child is becoming overwhelmed. The goal is positive experience, not a perfect experience.
- Observe and Engage: Pay attention to your child's cues. Are they seeking more sensory input or needing a break? The park is a great place to play with your kids or take a break and just watch - you need it!
Beyond the Playground: Embracing Inclusive Communities
Finding these adaptive parks is a huge step towards creating more inclusive experiences for our children. But true inclusion extends beyond the playground. It’s about ensuring our communities, schools, and programs are designed to support every individual. If you're navigating the broader landscape of support services in Utah, I encourage you to explore resources like my guide on Utah Disability Services Guide: Programs, Support, and Where to Start.
My passion is helping families like yours navigate the unique journey of neurodiversity with confidence. I believe every child deserves the opportunity to play, learn, and thrive in spaces where they feel truly seen and supported. These all-ability parks are a beautiful example of that vision coming to life.
If you're feeling overwhelmed or need personalized guidance on supporting your neurodivergent child, whether it's finding more resources or developing specific strategies for daily life, I invite you to connect with me.
Ready to explore how coaching can make a difference for your family?
Book a Free Consultation with me today. Let's create a path forward together.
