Pelton Oval

What You'll Find Here

Positioned in the McLean Heights neighborhood of Yonkers, Pelton Oval is that perfect local park that has a bit of everything. The playground is a hit with the younger crowd (think under 10), but fair warning - some of the equipment has seen better days and could use a little TLC.

If you're into sports, you're in luck. The spacious turf field is particularly nice, complete with soccer goals at each end and enough room that multiple groups can play without bumping elbows. There are also basketball courts for shooting hoops and a baseball area if you're looking to practice your swing.

Take a Breather

Not feeling particularly athletic today? No problem. Grab a blanket and find a spot along the sidelines to watch the action unfold or simply enjoy some fresh air. The park offers several sitting areas where you can unwind with a book or chat with neighbors.

The park's location makes it an easy walk for many locals, making it a popular spot in the neighborhood.

Good to Know

The park itself is generally clean and well-kept, though occasionally you might notice some litter around the perimeter. Something to note: the field is sometimes locked for private events or during winter months, with gate access restricted depending on the season.

Nature calls? There are portable toilets on site, although they're not always open or in the best condition - plan accordingly. If you're driving over, there's a parking area available, but it tends to fill up quickly after 2 PM when the after-school crowd arrives.

Beyond Recreation

Interestingly, Pelton Oval has a hidden purpose beyond recreation. Urban planning studies have identified that the park and the extensive hill behind it collect water from various locations in the surrounding area.

This means the park functions in two ways - as a recreational space and as part of the neighborhood's water management system.