Maplewood Roadside Park — Attraction in Renton

We didn't get to explore too much as it was already sunset when we stopped. The five stars are because I keep track of the fantastic spots for an impromptu picnic, sunset ambiance, or even a quick break from the hustle to cool off and "Feel the Green" that we are so blessed to have all around us here in the Pacific Northwest! This spot checks all those boxes! It is popular though I noticed. However, no garbage on the beach or even in the parking lot! There was a pile of smoldering coals with 10 foot branches coming out each side! It was lightly covered in sand which almost makes it worse, concealing the embers underneath but also providing them with fuel. Please do not do this, people! Only YOU can prevent forest fires!!(And 3rd degree burns of the feet) You know who you are...

Love this park..stop several times a week rain or shine. The only down fall is no bathrooms, but there are bathrooms room just a short walk east to other park ( bring your own TP) the only other down fall is the 5 or 6 homes that are on the back street to this great place. They are very nosy, rude, and unfriendly to say the least. I have had the pleasure to deal most if not all of them. Found only one truly nice helpful residence. The others will make faults reports. Just wish they would find pride in there great little location not try and chance all away. Like maybe clean up the area or just be human. So if you run into the one. Just smile. Recommend very highly this place is one of a kind. Would give more...

Nice place to have a picnic or have a brief stop next to the Cedar River. I think this "roadside" park name says it all -- it's next to a road, the Maple Valley Highway. The gravel parking lot appears to be a park-n-ride area at first, as you could probably park here, leave your car, and return at the end of the day. The proximity to Maple Valley Highway will make this somewhat noisy. It's a good place to park if you're planning to hook onto the Cedar River Trail and bike or run/walk. There is a fun little bridge to cross, and the trail abuts steep terrain on the south. The Cascade-Fairwood area of Renton is about 500 ft higher...