Lathrop, CA is a rapidly growing city that’s perfectly situated near several parks, including some right along the river and others with playgrounds, dog parks, splash pads, walking paths, pickle-ball courts, a skate park, and large fields.
Boasting over 120 acres of parkland spread across 25+ locations, Lathrop’s parks are all unique with a variety of imaginative themes that have something on offer for everyone.
Here’s a look at the best parks in Lathrop, including those in Stanford Crossing.
Parks in Lathrop
Manuel Valverde Park – 1557 5th St.
This charming park has an unique playground with lots of shade. There’s also a small splash pad with fountains to cool off and play in during warm summer days. There are paths and a rose garden to stroll among with an amphitheater where concerts are sometimes held. For those looking for something more active, there’s a baseball diamond, basketball courts, and outdoor exercise equipment. Dogs are welcome at this park. There is a gazebo you can reserve as well as picnic tables and restrooms.
Mossdale Crossing Regional Park – 19091 S Manthey Rd.
Definitely one of the larger parks in Lathrop, this park runs right along the San Joaquin, Middle and Old Rivers and has a 2-lane boat ramp, floating dock and fishing access. Dogs are welcome, and there are picnic tables, BBQs, shaded picnic tables and restrooms so you can make a day of it. There is a $5 charge for parking here on weekdays, $6 to park on weekends, $12 for vehicles over 12 ft. and a $1 charge for pets, leash required.
Apolinar Sangalang Park – 13470 Slate St.
This Lathrop park is gem with an impressive pirate-themed playground and a garden-themed splash pad with butterflies and flowers. There are also wide paths to stroll on, shaded picnic tables, and a well-appointed baseball diamond. This park also offers tennis courts, basketball courts and outdoor exercise equipment. There are grills and a gazebo here for your use too. Dogs are also welcome.

Leland and Jane Stanford Park – 450 Spartan Way
This Stanford Crossing park adjacent to the Generations Center has something for everyone. Its name recalls Lathrop’s rich history, with the park itself including a playground, skate park, parkour course, outdoor amphitheater, pickle ball courts, basketball courts, and large open fields. Wide sidewalks welcome an evening stroll and there are barbecues, picnic tables and a gazebo for you to enjoy. Dogs are welcome too.
Mossdale Landing Community Park – 700 Towne Centre Dr.
This playground has lots of fun equipment to explore and the splash pad is generously sized with several charming water features. Your dogs will appreciate the big open fields, trails and views of the San Joaquin River. A baseball diamond, basketball courts and outdoor exercise equipment are all there for your use. There are picnic tables and restrooms available, plus a gazebo that you can rent.
Rotary Park – 850 Tern Dr.
The playground at this Stanford Crossing park has a sunken-ship theme that will spark young imaginations. You’ll also find basketball courts, shaded picnic tables and wide-open fields to play in.
Tidewater Park – 1590 Huntington Way
Although this park is not as large as the others, its playground is just as large. There are also basketball courts and picnic tables. Everything is located all together, making it easier for families to engage in multiple activities and still be able to keep an eye on each other.
Latitude Park – 1874 Garden Farms Ave.
Nestled in a quiet neighborhood, this park has a generous playground to climb on. It also has a large sand volleyball court right next to the playground, as well as wide paths and large fields for dogs to run on. This park also borders the San Joaquin River and many of the nearby homes have private docks right on the water.
Crystal Cove Park – 1725 Academy Dr.
Popular for its picturesque riverside views, this park is a perfect choice for a sunset stroll. There are large grassy fields and wide paths for your family to play on. It has a large basketball court plus barbecues and picnic tables for your use. Dogs are also welcome at this park.

River Park North – 15569 Hedges Dr.
Located within Stanford Crossing, this park has an interesting geometric-themed ropes course to climb and swing on as well as stationary exercise equipment. There are wide sidewalks and an open field to play in too. Dogs are welcome here.
River Park South at Mossdale Landing – 17601 Inland Passage Way
As its name suggests, this park runs right along the San Joaquin River. It is noted as perhaps the best dog park in the county, with separate areas where large breeds can roam freely. (It’s one of the reason Lathrop is such a pet-friendly city.) There are also shaded picnic tables and public restrooms for your use.
Lions Park – 16064 Brandon Ln.
One of the newest parks at Stanford Crossing, this playground has a fun farm theme with a windmill, slides, swings and lots of things to climb and spin on. There’s covered picnic tables and fields to run in.
Have Fun at Lathrop’s Parks & Beyond
Spending time at Lathrop’s parks is only one of the many fun activities and family-friendly amenities on offer in the area. Plus, the nearby towns of Tracy and Stockton are just a short drive away, where you’ll find even more parks, in addition to offerings for wine lovers, foodies, pop culture fans, and music enthusiasts.
A quiet community with big cities nearby, Lathrop is the perfect spot to put down roots, watch your family grow, and have a fun day at the park.
Curious about what your life in Lathrop might look like? Let’s chat!