Union County Parks & Recreation Unveils New Farm-Themed Playground at Jesse Helms Park in Wingate, NC. The park's grand opening ribbon-cutting ceremony was a huge success. This destination playground features two themed play structures. The 5-12 age area features a barn and silo-inspired play structure packed with interactive elements and progressive challenges to keep children active and engaged. The 2-5 age area includes a smaller barn and tractor play structure with corn stalk climbers, perfect for little ones.
Adding to the adventure, kids can test their agility and climbing skills on freestanding net structures, including the Vista Twist Tower, Vista Arc Sphere, and some spinning fun with the Vista TreeTop. The play space also includes an outdoor musical area with shade, freestanding track ride and swings designed to resemble a farm irrigation system, featuring traditional swing seats as well as adaptive seats and the very popular GameTime Expression Swing! The outdoor environment has shaded seating areas for parents and caregivers to relax and enjoy while keeping an eye on the fun. This also allows families to stay longer and enjoy this destination playground.
The playground is completed with poured-in-place rubber safety surfacing, providing a safe, accessible, and visually appealing foundation for play. Adding to the adventure, playful landscape mounds have been incorporated to create elevation changes within the play space, enhancing play value and offering a unique, interactive element for children to explore.
“This playground is a fantastic addition to Union County’s parks, providing a space where children of all abilities can explore, play and grow,” said Jim Chaffin, Union County Parks and Recreation Director. “We’re proud to offer families a space that blends farm-inspired fun with adventure while fostering inclusion and meaningful connections across generations.”
“The multi-generational playground at Jesse Helms Park was thoughtfully designed to reflect the legacy of the old farmlands it now occupies—creating a space that fosters connection, activity, and shared experiences across all ages, while honoring the land’s rich agricultural history and its role in bringing communities together,” said John Cunningham, Certified Playground Safety Inspector and Sales Associate with Cunningham Recreation. “It has been a pleasure partnering with Union County in bringing this destination park to life! It will serve the community well for years to come.”
About Union County Parks and Recreation
Union County Parks and Recreation is committed to enhancing the quality of life for residents by providing exceptional parks, trails, and recreational opportunities. The department manages and maintains a variety of outdoor spaces, ensuring that families across the county have access to safe, engaging, and inclusive recreational facilities.
