In the Tri-Cities, most of us LOVE the outdoors.  Parks abound, but have you ever wondered which parks are best for picnics?  We share a few picks from our readers below, but it's no where near an exhaustive list.  Also, as state and federal budgets effect the operations of many of our parks, we found that a few of our favorites (including Levey Park on the Pasco-Kahlotus Road) only offer limited services in 2012.

Comment on this post to share your picks and create a great resource for Moms in our community!

Hansen Park on Columbia Center Blvd. near 10th Street:  This is a large park that's surrounded by a parking lot, undeveloped field, neighborhood street and retirement community.  While there are few picnic tables, there are plenty of maturing trees where you can pitch a blanket for a great afternoon snack.  Plus, the park offers clean restrooms and a great jungle gym.

Chiawana Park:  In Pasco and right on the bike path, this park has a bit of everything.  Plus, they just installed a new playground that one mom told us is AMAZING!

Howard Amon Park:  While we all know where this is located, it kept coming up on the list.  Pool, slides, trees, bike paths, river ... the list continues.

Grange Park at Union Street Library:   There isn't a lot of shade here yet, but that seems to be one of the only drawbacks.  It offers a playground for smaller children and tennis/basketball courts for the older kids.  One reader shared:  It has the beautiful and interesting Master Gardener gardens with raised beds for veggies and herbs, and a child's garden with a sand box.  Of course there is the fish pond and water play area too that kids love.  There are covered gazebos with tables and lots of nice grass for picnics.  You can get a good book at the library or participate in one of their many activities, then go outside, take a walk around the park and watch your kids play.  Perfect.

So what are your park picks this summer?