Free Family Fun at Nolan Creek

By: Sierra Brown

As a mom of two boys, I am always looking for fun and free places to go that will keep them entertained. Nolan Creek is a beautiful place that does just that. My kids stay entertained for hours playing and having a blast. I had started the day on the lookout for a public pool. On one spontaneous drive, we ended up at the creek. At Nolan Creek, there is a trail, a park, and (of course) a creek to swim in.

Along the Trail

A walking, jogging, and biking trail surround the creek. The trail is great especially in the mornings before it’s so hot out you could cook on the sidewalk. The scenery surrounding the trail is awe-inspiring for those nature enthusiasts like myself. Certain parts of the trail have a lot of ducks that sometimes are brave enough to follow you hoping for a treat. Geese linger along the trail as well, but they are all honk and no bite. The trail splits off at one point allowing you to either continue forward or check out the park.

Play in the Park

The park has a basketball court, swings, and a playground. My boys are 7 and 8, so they are less than 5 feet tall, but they’re still able to make some shots, so the hoop isn’t too high. I like how there are plenty of swings. Usually, the park isn’t very crowded, but if it were, then it wouldn’t be too long of a line for the swings. The park has medium-sized equipment so it can be used by a wide range of age groups. Also, there is a bathroom that stays relatively clean right next to the playground, which is perfect, especially for younger kids. The creek is by far where my kids spend most of their time.

Swim in the Creek

At one part of the creek, there is a safe slant in the rocks that have been smoothed out by the flow of water. A lot of the kids at the creek use this part as a water slide, the current helps push them gently down the slide. There is a nice, shaded grass hill beside the creek where the makeshift slide is. The shaded area is a perfect place to rest while watching your kids or just a place to relax in peace.