👶 MaryvilleKids.com

I know what you're thinking—another park with trails? Trust me, this one's different. Jarvis Park opened in 2021 and it's become one of my favorite places to bring the kids when we want to get outside without being on our feet all the time.

What makes it special: The half-mile of walking trails wind through woodlands with two oak trees that are over 250 years old. My kids love following the creek and looking for the bamboo grove (yes, there's bamboo in Maryville). It's peaceful but not boring.

For the little ones: There's a picnic area if you want to stop for lunch, and it's right across the street from the Blount United Soccer Club fields if your kid is at practice. Free parking makes it easy to park the car and go.

Practical stuff: The whole thing is 47 acres now (they hope to expand it more), and it's open from sunrise to sunset. Bring bug spray in summer, bring layers in spring when it's cool in the shade.

My kids say: They like following the creek. My youngest keeps looking for the "bamboo forest" like it's a secret hideout. My oldest just likes that it's not crowded.

Pro tip: If you're coming to soccer practice, park here and walk the trails to the fields—it's a nice way to kill 15 minutes before warmups start.