About Pixie Park

Pixie Park is a volunteer-run cooperative playground created especially for children ages six and younger. Nestled among the redwoods at the Marin Art and Garden Center in Ross, California, the park provides a safe and nurturing outdoor environment where young children can explore nature, learn through play, develop confidence, and build physical and social-emotional skills.

Pixie Park is operated by Pixie Parents, a 501(c)(3) nonprofit charitable organization. Through outdoor play, volunteer stewardship, community programs, and participation assistance, we work to provide an educational and lasting benefit to young children and families throughout our community.

Our Mission

To create and maintain a safe outdoor playground where children 6 years and younger can explore nature, develop confidence, and thrive in a nurturing and supportive community.

Learning Through Outdoor Play

Young children learn by moving, imagining, experimenting, observing, and interacting with others. Pixie Park’s natural setting and age-appropriate play spaces encourage:

• Physical development and coordination

• Imaginative and creative play

• Sensory exploration

• Cooperation and social-emotional growth

• Confidence and independence

• Connection with nature

Every part of the park is designed with the developmental needs and safety of young children in mind.

What “Members” Means at Pixie Park

On this website, “members” means families and caregivers who enroll to participate in Pixie Park’s programs and cooperative operations. Participating families support our nonprofit mission through membership dues, volunteer service, and community involvement. Membership does not confer ownership of the park or a financial interest in the organization.

Membership is available to families who meet the park’s age and safety requirements. Reduced-fee and no-fee memberships are available based on financial need so that cost does not prevent an eligible family from participating.

Because the playground is designed specifically for very young children, a secure gate and access code help maintain a safe and appropriately controlled environment. Community members may also experience Pixie Park through monthly open houses and designated public programs.

Our Story

Pixie Park was founded in 1952 through the vision and generosity of Elizabeth Terwilliger, the Marin Branch of the American Association of University Women, local families, and community supporters.

In 1958, renowned landscape architect Robert Royston helped give the park its distinctive design, creating imaginative play spaces that have inspired generations of young children.

The park underwent a major renovation in 2019 and 2020. Aging equipment was replaced, accessibility was improved, and the playground was renewed to provide a safe and engaging environment for future generations.

For more than 70 years, volunteers, donors, participating families, and community partners have helped Pixie Park remain a special place for young children to explore, learn, and grow.