"My favorite part of this playground was the net I could climb on. Oh, and the ducks!" Parker, age 5
Park Address: 1805 SE 14th Ave, Ocala, FL 34471
Photo by the Author/The Ritterhoff Park swingset
What we loved
- The duck pond
- The cargo net web
- The peace
What we would have liked
- More play structures
- More shady areas
- A nearby restroom
Ocala resident, Reuben Torres, and her two-year-old son visit the Robert F. Ritterhoff Park in Ocala, Florida often. "It's convenient and literally down the road," she said when speaking about the playground, "but I think it needs more areas for kids to play."
I agreed, but Torres and I also spoke about how we found the quaint park with a lovely duck pond, basic playground, and shaded picnic tables charming.
After all, my two and five-year-old sons entertained themselves for a solid hour as I listened to the soothing sounds of a sprinkling fountain.
The playground featured two traditional swings, a bucket swing and a sitting swing.
Nearby is a small slide, perfect for toddlers and preschoolers. My kiddos also enjoyed climbing the small cargo netted structure.
While we were there, skateboarders, bikers, and walkers gravitated towards the weaving cement path leading to the playground.
We also saw people fishing and a man quietly sitting on a bench watching the ducks.
Photo by the author/ The Ritterhoff Park fountain.
Our verdict: Ritterhoff Park is a beautiful, reflective place for people of all ages.
Even though the playground is small, my boys were entertained and content in this Ocala and Recreational space.
Although I spent most of my time under a shady tree sitting at a picnic table, the playground itself sits prominently under the sun, so remember your sunscreen! While you're at it, pack a picnic lunch or burgers to grill.
Ritterhoff Park in Ocala is a simple playground with the added touch of a duck pond and a shaded picnic area.
It's also conveniently located across the street from Clyatt Park, so if you're feeling enthusiastic, try a double park day.
Amenities
- Three recycling cans
- Three trash cans
- One picnic table under a tree
- Three picnic tables under the wooden pavilion (available for rent)
- Free public parking
- A playground with swings, a climbing structure, and a slide.
- Catch and release fishing
- A duck pond with a fountain
Photo by the author/ The Ritterhoff Park slide
The Lowdown
If you're seeking a massive, bustling playground, then Ritterhoff Park isn't for you. But if you're seeking a reflective space with natural sights, a basic playground, and a quiet location for a picnic, Ritterhoff Park is it!
Other playgrounds nearby
- Fisher Park
- Clyatt Park
- Walker Park