If you’re looking for an easy-to-love park close to town, Squirrel Lake Park is a great pick. Located right down the street from Downtown Matthews, this park has been a go-to spot for local families for years — and for good reason. It’s the kind of park where you can play, explore, and enjoy the outdoors all in one visit.
Playground Fun for All Ages at Squirrel Lake Park
The playground area is perfect for kids who like to climb, swing, and slide.
You’ll find:
- A climbing wall
- Swings
- Slides
- Plenty of space for kids to move and play
It’s a simple but fun setup that keeps kids busy while parents can relax nearby.
A Lake, Picnic Tables, and Disc Golf Too
Beyond the playground, Squirrel Lake Park offers even more ways to enjoy your day.
Families love:
- A peaceful lake
- Covered picnic tables for snacks or lunch
- A full disc golf course for older kids and adults
It’s easy to turn a quick park stop into a longer afternoon adventure.
Connected to the 4-Mile Greenway Trail
One of the best parts of Squirrel Lake Park is its connection to the 4-mile Greenway Trail.
The Four Mile Creek Greenway Trail is a fully paved trail that stretches a total of four miles and connects Downtown Matthews directly to Squirrel Lake Park.
While it isn’t a loop trail, the full length gives families plenty of room to explore. The trail connects Matthews Elementary School, Squirrel Lake Park, and East John Street, making it easy to plan a walk or bike ride that fits your schedule.
The wide, well-maintained path is great for walking, biking, running, and strollers, even on busier days. Along the way, kids (and dogs!) love spotting the rock feature with bubbling water — it’s fun to look at and almost impossible to walk past without stopping.
You can start or end your outing in either Downtown Matthews or Squirrel Lake Park, which makes it easy to pair greenway time with a playground break or a downtown stop. Bathrooms are available at Squirrel Lake Park and in Downtown Matthews, so it’s a good idea to plan a quick stop before starting a longer walk or ride.
Nature lovers will appreciate that the greenway isn’t just for people wildlife like beavers, white-tailed deer, and many bird species also call this area home — making every visit a little different.
A Reading Adventure Along the Way at Squirrel Lake Park
Squirrel Lake Park also features a fun reading activity with interactive signs posted throughout the park and along the trail.
Kids can:
- Read as they walk
- Stay engaged while moving
- Turn a regular stroll into a learning experience
It’s a small detail that adds a lot of charm.
Squirrel Lake Park a park with Local Roots
This park has been loved by locals for generations. Growing up running on the trail and spending time here makes it an easy recommendation — Squirrel Lake Park truly feels like a community space built for families.
If you’re exploring Matthews or looking for a new park to add to your rotation, this one is well worth a visit.
Have you been to Squirrel Lake Park yet? Tell us what your family loves most — or bookmark this spot for your next outdoor day!
Squirrel Lake Park Address – 1631 Pleasant Plains Rd, Matthews, NC 28105
Photos of Squirrel Lake Park
Looking for parks in the Charlotte area? Here’s our full guide to Parks & Playgrounds.
