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Parks #16 in Santa Cruz, California

Anna Jean Cummings County Park

4.7 · 510 reviews
Active and family-oriented
Anna Jean Cummings County Park, 461 Soquel San Jose Rd, Soquel, CA 95073, United States
Interesting facts
1

The park is colloquially named 'Blue Ball Park' by locals because of the oversized blue climbing spheres installed in the play area.

2

The 20-acre site was designed with significant elevation changes, allowing the playground to be split across different levels.

3

It features a specialized multi-age playground structure that is considered one of the largest in the Santa Cruz County park system.

4

The park is situated on land that was formerly part of a larger agricultural valley, and the grading was engineered to preserve the natural slope of the terrain.

5

It hosts a dedicated sand volleyball court often used for local amateur league play.

Overview

Anna Jean Cummings County Park, locally known as 'Blue Ball Park' due to its iconic large blue spherical playground structures, is a 20-acre facility in Soquel, California. The park features a sprawling multi-level playground, expansive grassy meadows, and dedicated sports facilities including baseball diamonds and volleyball courts. It serves as a central community hub for recreation, offering paved walking paths that circle the perimeter of the open fields. The topography includes rolling hills that provide elevated views of the Soquel valley. Visitors have access to reservable picnic areas and barbecue facilities suitable for large gatherings. The site is maintained by Santa Cruz County Parks and serves as a major venue for local youth sports leagues throughout the year. Its design emphasizes family-oriented activities with distinct zones for younger children and older recreational users.

Photo spot

From the highest point of the grassy hill overlooking the playground and the Santa Cruz coastal mountain range in the distance.

Insider tips

Bring a picnic blanket as the grassy areas are extensive and ideal for lounging.

The park has limited natural shade in the main play areas; bring sunscreen or a hat during midday.

Wear sneakers or comfortable walking shoes if you intend to explore the paved paths around the perimeter.

What to avoid

Do not leave valuables in parked vehicles, as with many trailhead and park locations in the region.

Etiquette

Leashed pets are permitted; owners must clean up after animals. Professional sports equipment use must follow local league scheduling.

Plan your visit
Typical visit
1.5-2.5 hours
Best time to visit
Weekday mornings or late afternoons during the spring and fall for temperate weather and smaller crowds.
Address
Anna Jean Cummings County Park, 461 Soquel San Jose Rd, Soquel, CA 95073, United States
36.995, -121.959
Get directions
Details
Playground FeaturesMulti-level climbing structures and large blue spheres
FacilitiesBaseball diamonds, sand volleyball courts, and reservable picnic areas

Frequently asked

Plan for about 1.5-2.5 hours to see the highlights.

The best time to visit is Weekday mornings or late afternoons during the spring and fall for temperate weather and smaller crowds..

From the highest point of the grassy hill overlooking the playground and the Santa Cruz coastal mountain range in the distance.

Close by you'll find Santa Cruz Beach Boardwalk, New Brighton State Beach, The Mystery Spot.