Yup. It’s time. Spring has sprung and your little tike is literally scaling walls everywhere you turn. Climbing trees, banisters, flagpoles, he doesn’t discriminate. Seriously, all your kid wants to do is play outside from dawn til dusk and you’re running out of balls and chalk to keep him busy.
Shopping for a jungle gym is a right of passage for every suburban mom and we are here to help you navigate. Think of us as your jungle gym sherpa if you will. We have done a little homework and can help guide you on your journey to find the perfect play system.
Cedarworks
Using only splinter-free, non-chemically treated Northern White Cedar, Cedarworks makes long-lasting, handcrafted, royal, playsets your kids will love (and your cousins will swoon over). Order directly via their website using their design tools experts and and customize a set to your liking. Then utilize their free site evaluation (available in Bergen) to verify dimensions and fit and Voila, your kids will be climbing in approximately 3 weeks from the time you place your order. (Cedarworks Playsets, check website for pricing, pricing depends on playset line and options selected)
Rainbow Play Systems
Rainbow has been in business for 25 years and has sold over 1 million swingsets. With 100 different models all built out of 100% North American or Redwood Timber, Rainbow is one of the few “green” systems. All the wood is water sealed through a 10 step process and installation is handled only by the company’s own trained installers. All purchases include a lifetime warranty on most of the product and a 5 year warranty on certain accessories. Time from order to delivery and installation is 3-4 weeks.
Prices from $1,300 to $5,000 and delivery/installation starting at $99
Closest Showroom: Rainbow Direct- Parsippany, 745 US Hwy 46 East, (973) 334-4404
Eastern Jungle Gym
In business for over 18 years, Eastern Jungle Gyms provides a wide variety of options for your backyard fun. All systems are made from top grade cedar and redwood, creating a jungle gym which is built to last. The company also takes safety very seriously. All products have rounded edges and comply with CPSC and IPEMA safety guidelines. Eastern Jungle Gyms are installed by experienced installers and come with a 10 year limited warranty. Time from order to delivery and installation is 10-14 days.
Prices from $1500 and up, and delivery/installation can be free depending on which model you choose.
Sold at Swingset & Toy Warehouse
118 Route 17 North
Upper Saddle River
800-794-6473
Woodplay Playsets
Since 1975 Woodplay has been committed to building the finest playsets that help children grow and learn. The company’s playsets are built out of solid Redwood with heavy duty galvanized hardware. They also created angled safety ladders to help younger children climb onto their swingsets. Woodplay is constantly innovating their products and creating new add-on combinations. The company offers a 30 day unconditional guarantee and a limited lifetime warranty on most components. They will even replace any wooden component suffering structural failure due to warping, rotting or insect damage.
Starting at $2,499 plus delivery and installation
Huff’s Outdoor
334 Route 17 North, Saddle River
201-818-5100
Creative Playthings
Creative Playthings has been selling high quality, good value swingsets since 1951. All swingsets are built from their own Naturaline 100% Chemical Free Woods or Pine. They have swingsets for any budget or backyard and for kids of any age. With limited lifetime warranties on most products and a 10 year warranty on their less expensive line, Creative Playthings stand by their products. Check out their “Design Configurator” on the company website which helps you build the perfect set to maximize your family’s fun. Spring sale in effect through April 30th!
Basic Pine Line: $699 to $2,099
Special Pine Series: $2,299-$3,899
Creative Playthings
573 Route 17 South
Paramus, 201.447.0008
113 US Hwy. 46 West
Wayne, 973.890.0777
On that note, your sherpa bids you farewell on your journey and happy hunting. Just remember, it’s a jungle out there.
Looking for more? Check out these Gorilla Playsets that could be a great as well!
