There is nothing like a simple, relaxing, fun park day. When we were living in Washington we had three parks within walking distance to our house. We didn’t take advantage of that NEARLY enough, but it was so nice to have an easy place to go when we just needed to get out of the house. That was one of the hard things when we moved to South Korea: not having a park close by. At least, not within walking distance. When we first arrived here, I had a pretty bad case of FOMO when I saw those living on post in the family towers – sure, they lived in high-rise apartments, but at least they had playgrounds close by.
But as we’ve explored and gotten more comfortable with South Korea, we’ve been able to discover that there are so many parks in the Camp Humphreys area that are easy to visit. These parks made the list because of their close proximity to Camp Humphreys, their large parking lots (that are free), and the variety of things to do there. And, let’s be honest, available restrooms are also a big draw for each of these parks – because Heaven knows this family of 7 is almost always in need of a bathroom. And so, to hopefully help others get out of the house and explore, here are our 4 favorite parks near Camp Humphreys.
The 4 Best Parks Near Camp Humphreys
Nae-ri Munhwa Park
Located just outside of Camp Humphreys’ Yoon Gate, Nae-ri Park was the first one we ever visited in South Korea. This park sits right along the Anseong River and boasts beautiful views, an incredible playground, swings that sit on the hill overlooking the river, immaculate bathrooms, bike paths, picnic areas, and more. It is perfect for all ages and is also a great place to see some pink muhly in the fall.
Directions to Nae-ri Park: Paste 경기 평택시 팽성읍 내리길 64-23 into Naver and it will take you right to the parking lot. From the parking lot, head toward the river and you’ll find the playground, bike paths, bathrooms, as well as the outdoor stage where they do lightshows after dark.
Buraksan Culture Park
Buraksan Culture Park was the gem that we didn’t know we were going to. I don’t even remember how I ended up finding this park, but when we arrived, it kind of blew our minds. It’s a little farther from Camp Humphreys than Nae-ri Park, but trust me when I say it is WELL worth the drive. Enjoy a super extra playground, complete with trampolines, hammocks, a giant spider web to climb on, and porch-like swings that you can sit and relax on while you watch the kids play. In addition to the playground, there are obstacle courses (just to the left when you’re looking at the playground with the parking lot behind you) and hiking trails. Pack a picnic and spend the whole day at the park – you won’t regret it.
Directions to Buraksan Culture Park: Paste 경기도 평택시 지산동 1263 into Naver to get to the parking lot at Buraksan Culture Park. The parking lot is large and has bathrooms right next to it. There are other bathrooms closer to the playground.
Pyeongtaek Agro-Ecological Park
The first time we visited Pyeongtaek Agro-Ecological Park was with a cultural tour that we went on. We went to three scheduled places and this park was the final stop. By that point, we were tired, we were hot, and we were ready to go home. So we didn’t give it much of a fighting chance. But I recently took my kids back during the 2023 Pyeongtaek Flower Festival and this park definitely redeemed itself. Not just because of the beautiful flowers (and they WERE beautiful), but because the playground is so fun. Pyeongtaek Agro-Ecological Park is fantastic for all ages – as long as you’re okay with your kids getting VERY sandy.
Directions to Pyeongtaek Agro-Ecological Park: Paste 경기도 평택시 오성면 숙성리 83-2 into Naver and it will take you to the large parking lot. Walk between the two buildings by the parking lot and up the hill to the playground on the other side. Visit during April for beautiful tulips, lupines, and daffodils.
Sopung Park and Gardens
There are few parks that are more magical than Sopung Park in Pyeongtaek. If you’re looking for a park with playgrounds, bridges, random Korean cuteness, and tons and TONS of walking paths, then Sopung Park is the park for you. I really can’t explain with words how beautiful this park is – you’ll just have to experience it for yourself!
Directions to Sopung Park and Gardens: Paste 경기도 평택시 고덕면 궁리 502-8 into Naver, which will take you right to one of the large parking lots that will give you access to the playgrounds, walking trails, and campground.
So there you have it: our 4 favorite parks in the Camp Humphreys area! When we need to get out of the house, these are our top choices because 1) there is plenty to do at each of them whether it’s hiking, walking, or just relaxing while the kids play and 2) our kids LOVE them.
What parks would you add to the list?
