Jesse Helms Park

A Fresh Take on Play: New GameTime Playground at Jesse Helms Park

Jesse Helms Park in Wingate, North Carolina just got a major upgrade with the addition of a brand-new GameTime playground. Designed by our friends at Cunningham Recreation with a charming farm theme and plenty of inclusive features, this playful space brings big fun to one of Union County’s most scenic parks.

The playground features areas designed for different age groups, including a larger play structure for kids 5–12 and a tot-sized zone for younger adventurers. Kids can climb barn towers, slide down silo chutes, ride on a farm tractor, and explore musical instruments and crawl tunnels—all with bright, bold colors and imaginative details.

At the heart of the playground is an inclusive swing system featuring GameTime’s Expression Swing™, so caregivers and children can swing face-to-face, along with adaptive swing seats for accessibility. Freestanding net climbers, sensory play elements, and shade-covered gathering spots round out this thoughtful design.

Soft, synthetic turf provides a comfortable and accessible surface for all visitors, making it easy for everyone to enjoy the space. Nearby, families can take advantage of picnic shelters, grills, paved walking trails, a fitness zone, and full-size soccer fields.

The farm-themed playground pays tribute to the area's agricultural roots while offering a safe and exciting place for children of all abilities to play and connect. It’s a perfect destination for families, school groups, and community events—and a proud example of how play can bring people together.

At Struthers Recreation, we’re proud to partner with GameTime to create vibrant, inclusive spaces like this across the Southeast. If you’re in the Wingate area, stop by Jesse Helms Park and experience the fun for yourself!

See more photos below 👇🏻