Among the many things St. George has going for it, the quantity and quality of area parks is one — with Hidden Valley Park high on that list.
It’s not the newest recreation area, but Hidden Valley Park offers a variety of activities for people of all ages. Plus, the ground beneath the playground area was recently completely redone. The entire space is extremely inviting.
As its name suggests, it’s a little “hidden” but definitely not such that it can’t easily be found — and enjoyed.
A great view of the Hidden Valley Park.
Location
Hidden Valley Park
3505 S. Barcelona Drive
St. George, Utah
Hidden Valley Park amenities
With summer nearly upon us, you need to find a place to play where you can also keep cool. Hidden Valley Park is one of the area parks that offer a splash pad. So, bingo!
Nestled in a quiet canyon off of Brigham Road, near Desert Hills High School, Hidden Valley Park features gorgeous views, a large play area, tennis courts, pavilion and more. Hidden Valley Park is also a Wi-Fi hotspot.
The children’s climbing/play area at Hidden Valley Park is made of faux wood, red plastic and painted steal. There are two separate structures, one specifically with younger children in mind. However, their proximity to one another makes it easy to keep track of children of differing ages.
There are four swings — two regular, two for young children. The only issue here is these swings are inexplicably low to the ground. It makes it easier for children to get in and out of the swings themselves (which is a bonus) but difficult for the average size adult to push their child on the swing.
Two separate pavilions make it an ideal place for large gatherings. The main, larger, pavilion at Hidden Valley park, has half a dozen or more tables. Then, a second smaller pavilion located a little further from the play area has several more tables.
Water fun
The splash pad has become an increasingly popular element at parks throughout the area in recent years. In essence, it’s an updated version of running through the sprinklers, which many adults did when they were kids. The splash pad, though, takes that to a new level. At Hidden Valley Park splash pad water sprays up from several ground level outlets, and comes down from a giant water can situated about the splash pad. Nearby benches with sunshades make it an idea place to watch your children play.
One issue noted recently at Hidden Valley Park splash pad is the ground is quite slippery. In one or two areas in particular, children fell again and again. The ground appears to be painted cement. Another surface in the splash pad area would be better.
Beyond the children’s toys
Beyond the playground and splash pad, many people come to Hidden Valley Park simply to enjoy the tennis courts, basketball courts, Frisbee (disc) golf and more.
A walking path wraps around the park, making it a great spot for bikes, scooters, walkers and more. And yes, there are bathrooms and water fountains.
Benefits of park play
In case the amenities available at Hidden Valley Park aren’t enough incentive, we have a few more for you. There are so many benefits of getting outside and of allowing children time to play at a park. As Ralph Waldo Emerson said: “It is a happy talent to know how to play.”
* Park play encourages learning and creativity 
* More room to play means more physical movement for kids
* Get more vitamin D
* Give opportunity for exploration and independence
* Learn social skills by taking turns and playing with others
* Develop and improve gross motor skills
* Allow children to have a variety of sensory experiences
* Gives children a chance to self regulate their activities
* Provides opportunities to make decisions, leading to greater confidence
* Use pretend play to break out of limitations of reality
* Release emotions from trauma
* Also a great place for solitary play, which promotes independence
* Provides place for interactive outdoor games
If you’re looking for a home near this great park, or any other wonderful St. George area parks, check out these listings here.