Dermott District Natural Playground
Introduction to Dermott District Park
Updated July 2026
This is one of the most unusual places to play in Edmonton, and it's worth knowing why before you go — it makes the visit better.
The whole playground tells a story. Dermott District Playground is built around Edmonton's 1915 flood, moving through the destructive and renewing forces of nature: it starts at the Alpine Headwaters, runs through a River Washout, and climbs the Humberstone Mine Towers — a multi-storey tower inspired by the historic coal mines that shaped the river valley. There are seven distinct play areas in all, including a Log Swing, a Warming Hut, a Toddler Camp and a Fallen Tree.
What that means in practice is a playground that genuinely works across a wide age range. Little ones have their own camp; big kids have a serious tower and climbers to conquer. And there are loungers for parents, which makes it a settle-in-for-the-afternoon kind of place rather than a quick stop.
Playground Features
Multi-storey mine tower with a super slide, inspired by the Humberstone Coal Mines
A second, smaller slide built into the hillside with a rock-and-rope climbing area — ropes strung between climbable rock structures
Massive gliding rope swing and large swing set with six standard swings
Balance and obstacle sections with raw wood beams and hopping posts
Toddler Camp area with a little camping hut and slide, a giant leaf stage, stumps for hopping, balance beams and baby swings
Small sand pit for digging
Natural materials throughout — real and man-made rock, raw wood, rope, muted tones and wood chip base with some rubber sections
Practical Info for Visiting
Unique, natural playground with a massive opportunity for all-ages play
Good shade! there are mature trees, especially over the toddler area
Plenty of seats, picnic tables and loungers (one of the only playgrounds with these incredibly comfortable lounge chairs in the city!)
Washrooms available at the Bonnie Doon Leisure Centre
The equipment is spread across a big park, so it feels like a bit of an expedition to visit each area — leave more time than you think - this is a destination playground.
Finished playing? Head into Bonnie Doon Leisure Centre for a swim and make a full day of it
If you like this Playground, you'll like
The natural design and forest feel at Sir Wilfred Laurier Park
The all-season natural play at Glengarry Park
Related
Visit the Edmonton Playgrounds Map
See all Best Playgrounds in Edmonton