Every child should be able to play outdoors, no matter what their ability. That’s the basic principle behind Harper’s Playground, a non-profit organization that helps communities build accessible playgrounds all over the state. The very first playground is located in North Portland – check it out!

It all started when a little five-year-old girl arrived at her neighborhood playground and was unable to reach the play equipment with her walker.
Harper's Playground/Facebook
Harper Goldberg quickly became frustrated when she got stuck in the bark chips surrounding the playground equipment at Arbor Lodge Park. Her parents decided to do something about it, and Harper's Playground, a non-profit organization, was born. After several years of fundraising, Harper's Playground opened to the public in November, 2012.
Accessible playground designs have been around for years, but the Goldbergs wanted to design a playground that was not only accessible, but that integrated nature as well.
Harper's Playground/Facebook
When you visit Harper's Playground, you'll see tons of trees and grassy areas surrounding the playground spaces.
The playground is designed for all children - those with physical challenges, and those without.
Harper's Playground/Facebook
Kids will enjoy climbing, swinging, twirling, and sliding on this playground, all while making new friends and getting some fresh air.
Harper's Playground/Facebook

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Make some music, or lie on the grass and contemplate the clouds above.
Harper's Playground/Facebook
There's even a sand and water area for making sand castles and loading up toy dump trucks.
Jill Redder/Google
Several seating areas are also part of the design, and they're set up in little clusters to foster community. When it's time to take a break from playing, you can hang out with other parents and kids and relax.
Harper's Playground/Facebook
Harper's Playground is located at Arbor Lodge Park, and it's the first of several accessible playgrounds created by the Harper's Park organization.
Bryan Kast/Google
Other Harper's Park playgrounds in Oregon include: Couch Park, Gateway Discover Park, and Dawson Park, all in Portland, and Let's All Play Place in Salem.

Learn more about Harper’s Playground and how you can become involved on the organization’s website. Follow its Facebook page to see what’s happening this week.

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Arbor Lodge Park Path, Portland, OR 97217, USA