Take the Kids: Check out Blue Jay Point County Park's new playground

Blue Jay Point County Park recently razed its much-loved, but well-worn 20-year-old playground and unveiled new play equipment back in April.

And just like the old playground, the new one offers lots of ways for kids to climb, play and explore.

You'll find two play areas — one designed for kids ages 2 to 5 and another for kids ages 5 to 12. There's also lots of balance beams, swings and a sand area with new spring rockers.

I stopped by last week for a quick look. My 11-year-old daughter was impressed by the height of the slides.

The largest play piece features a collection of slides, climbing pieces and tunnels to crawl through and slide down.

It also offers a great view of the rest of the playground, including the smaller piece for toddlers and preschoolers and the collection of log balance beams.

Kids also have a couple of swinging options — a disc swing that fits more than one person at a time and two simple belt swings.

A large sand play area had lots of toys for kids to pay with while we were there. And there also are new and colorful animal-themed spring rockers.

Parents will find soe great practical features. They include easy access to the restrooms straight off the main play piece.

And lots of shady areas for picnicking and relaxing a little bit. (You deserve it!)

Blue Jay Point County Park has lots of other amenities, including regular StoryWalks, trails, fishing and educational programs. It also is home to Go Ape Treetop Adventure. You could easily spend most of a day here.

Check the website for details. The park is at 3200 Pleasant Union Church Rd., north of Raleigh.