Polson Park, Lakeview Park and East Hill’s Green Spaces

Quick answer: East Hill’s own Lakeview Park has ball diamonds, a playground and the free “Peanut Pool” wading pool and spray park. Just below the hill, Polson Park offers Vernon’s floral clock, a Japanese garden, sports courts and trails. Civic Memorial Park, the Grey Canal Trail and Kalamalka Lake beaches round out the options.

I live in East Hill, and the neighbourhood’s mature trees and nearby parks are a big part of what makes it feel settled and green. Here’s a guide to the green spaces in and around East Hill, and what each one offers.

Lakeview Park: East Hill’s neighbourhood park

Lakeview Park, on 18th Street, is right in East Hill. The City of Vernon lists:

three baseball diamonds;
a playground;
washrooms;
the “Peanut Pool” wading pool and a spray park.

The Peanut Pool

The wading pool is famous locally for its peanut shape. The City rebuilt it, and the new pool and spray park opened in summer 2024. According to the City, the project included a redesigned, more accessible pool basin, the new spray park, new change rooms and washrooms, and a wheelchair transfer lift donated by the Lions Club. It’s free to use. Check the City’s Peanut Pool schedule for the season’s hours.

For the full story, read my post on Lakeview Park’s Peanut Pool, an East Hill summer tradition.

Polson Park: Vernon’s historic green heart

Polson Park sits on Highway 6 near downtown, a short trip down from East Hill. According to the City of Vernon, the park was established in 1908, when Samuel Polson donated a large parcel of land to the city.

What you’ll find

The floral clock, installed in 1958.
The Japanese garden, built in 1967 as a Centennial project with support from the Japanese community.
A wheelchair-accessible playground and a skateboard park.
Tennis courts, a running track and a football area.
Walking trails, a picnic shelter and washrooms.
The Okanagan Science Centre, Vernon Heritage Hall and the Arts Council.

Polson Park also hosts events, and areas can be booked for gatherings through the City.

Tips for a visit

Pair a walk through the Japanese garden with a stop at the Okanagan Science Centre if you have kids along.
Bring a racquet: the tennis courts and running track make it an easy spot for a workout close to home.
Check the City of Vernon’s events listings, since the park is a popular spot for community gatherings and concerts.
If you’re walking back up to East Hill afterward, remember the return trip is uphill.

Other green spaces nearby

Civic Memorial Park

Downtown on 37th Avenue, Civic Memorial Park has a playground, walking paths and on-leash dog areas, according to the City’s parks list.

Grey Canal Trail

The City lists several sections of the Grey Canal Trail, including an East Vernon segment, for walking and on-leash dogs. Check the City’s trail maps for access points closest to you.

Kalamalka Lake

For swimming and beach days, Kalamalka Lake beaches are about 10 to 15 minutes by car from East Hill.

My East Hill parks and things to do page has even more ideas.

Green space at home: East Hill yards

Many East Hill homes sit on established lots with big, mature trees and gardens. That’s a real draw, and it comes with a few things to check before you buy:

Tree health. Large old trees near the house are worth a look by an arborist, especially if branches hang over the roof.
Roots and pipes. On older homes, a sewer line camera scope can show whether roots have got into the line.
City rules. Check with the City of Vernon before removing large trees, in case a permit is required.
Water use. Big gardens use water in hot Okanagan summers. Ask about the irrigation setup.

My local’s checklist for buying an older home in East Hill covers more of what to check.

FAQ

Is the Peanut Pool free?

Yes. The City of Vernon said the rebuilt Lakeview wading pool and spray park is free to use. Check the City’s schedule for hours.

When was Polson Park created?

The City says Polson Park was established in 1908, when Samuel Polson donated the land.

Is Polson Park in East Hill?

Polson Park is near downtown, just below East Hill, so it’s a short walk or drive from much of the neighbourhood.

Want a home close to Lakeview Park or a short stroll from Polson Park? Call or text me at (250) 550-6979, or browse East Hill homes for sale.