Los Rios

The City of San Juan Capistrano commissioned this rustic, wooden play structure for their historic Los Rios Park in anticipation of the 2009 Grand Opening.

Public use projects typically bring together a large array of professionals, city employees, and a variety of community members, and Los Rios was no exception. Barbara worked in close collaboration with local stakeholders to seamlessly design a custom play structure that would satisfy everyone’s vision while adding that sprinkle of whimsical magic that Barbara is known for.

The finished product blends in with the natural environment and also harkens back to the city’s past. Historic details include wagon wheels adorning the gable roof and hand carved corner braces. The railings along the upper levels of the slide towers are made up of a pattern of rungs and pickets that also enhance the charming rustic vibe.

Like all of Barbara’s creative play structures, there’s plenty to keep kids occupied at Los Rios. Youngster in the 5- to 12-year-old range can start by exploring the rectangular slide tower, accessible by a set of stairs or an angled rung ladder. Once on the 6’ platform, they can either slide down one of lanes on the exhilarating triple slide, each with a different texture, or they can run across the 8’ swinging bridge to the other square-shaped tower. The second tower includes an open twirly slide and a metal coil climber.

This inclusive playground design also features an ADA handicap accessible "L-shaped" transfer system, and a ground-level play feature below the rectangular tower. The wall and window can be transformed into a drive-thru restaurant or a pioneer cottage under construction.

The rugged stand-alone swing sets were custom designed and built to match the play structure. Made from metal sunk in concrete and faced with redwood lumber, these swings offer a sturdy, fun ride.

This structure meets ASTM F1487 Standards for Public Use Playground Equipment and the 2010 Americans with Disabilities Act.