This little park in Rainier Beach is a great find. From the boat launch, the spacious parking lot, the picnic tables, large playground and cement area for bikes and its views of Lake Washington, it is well worth a visit. It is located at 8650 55th Ave. S.
The playground has a range of equipment for children of different ages. There is an area for younger children to climb and explore as well as a larger area with a more advanced climbing wall and monkey bars. There are two sets of swings, one at the lower playground and one towards the north end of the park. There is also a small sand area, but you’ll need to bring your own sand toys. Unlike many Seattle parks, toys aren’t left at the park for the community children to play with.
Just north of the playground is a large cement area that is perfect for little ones to ride their bikes, skate, play cars or draw with sidewalk chalk. There is also a very charming table and chairs on the cement pad, along with several benches all around the play area.
An added benefit of the park is the fact that it is pesticide free. A definite bonus to letting your kids play, feeling comfortable spreading a picnic blanket over the grass, or taking your dog on a walk through the park.
A popular area is down by the boat launch where there is a nice little stretch of beach. There are logs and rocks to sit on and enjoy watching the ducks or the sunset.
This is obviously a popular park during the summer, though it would be nice to be see it in use more during the colder months. Unfortunately there are no covered areas and it is in an area with a rather rough reputation. It is right across the street from the Rainier Beach High School, so you can get teens hanging out and being mischievous in addition to other problematic loiterers.
Don’t let this deter you. These sorts of activities are a rarity. It is Seattle, after all. During the day it is a great area to let your kids play or to picnic or simply enjoy the view of the lake. The more people who are out making good use of the park, the less likely it is that the criminal element will be comfortable there.
If there is anything going on at the park that makes you suspicious, be sure to call the police non-emergency line at (206) 625-5011. If it is a urgent situation, don’t be afraid to call 911. Even non-life threatening or emergency situations are important to report especially in a high crime area. For more information about contacting the Seattle Police Department, visit their website.
This is a gorgeous park, with lots of great play equipment and areas for the entire family to enjoy.
For more information about this park, including its history and the origin of its name, be sure to visit the Seattle Parks and Recreation website. To contact the Seattle Parks and recreation in regards to this park, please call (206) 684-4075.
Websites that provide information about Beer Sheva Park.
Beer Sheva Park on Facebook
A Year of Seattle Parks’ review of Beer Sheva
Seattle Swingers, a blog about the swings in Seattle Parks.
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