El Franco Lee Park554

Newly re-designed El Franco Lee Park has at least a half-dozen different playgrounds, many of them shaded by canopies, all of them interconnected by paved pathways which are easy on the strollers. Oversized bench-swings at each playground provide a comfortable resting spot for parents keeping an eye on the kids.

The park also has soccer fields, plenty of tables for picnics, and a 1-1/2 mile woodland nature trail bordering Clear Creek, which provides a good opportunity for birdwatching and seeing wildlife. The nature trails have an elevated boardwalk with a gazebo at the end, overlooking the wetlands.

The park's wide-open spaces are ideal for flying kites or spreading out a blanket and lounging around. The sports complex includes baseball and softball fields. A white sand volleyball court is also available for public use. (The court has a net, but users must supply their own ball.)

For recreational fishing, El Franco Lee Park also has a quarter-acre, man-made pond available to the public during regular park hours. The pond is stocked with large mouth bass and catfish.

For birthday parties or other gatherings, a pavilion is equipped with electrical outlets, running hot and cold water, stainless steel counters, and a barbeque pit that requires firewood. For more information or to make reservations, please call the Precinct One South Side Reservation office at 713.440.1587.

The park has restrooms (but they're a bit of a walk from the playground areas).