Thompson's West End Park and Playground has served as a gathering place for the community and visitors for over 50 years. After years of heavy use and harsh weather, the playground equipment has fallen into disrepair. The goal of Friends of Thompson's West End Playground is to raise funds through grants and donations for new playground equipment. The new equipment would replace the equipment as it stands now, while maintaining the quaint character of the park. The newly installed pieces will be inclusive and ADA compliant.
The Friends of Thompson's West End Playground is a group of residents from the City and surrounding communities with children and grandchildren who utilize the playground. This group is taking on the task of seeking funding so the playground equipment can be replaced with pieces that meet current safety standards and that can be used for many years to come.
The plan is to purchase equipment from Game Time. The system has several components that promote physical activities. Even thought the system is rated for kids 5-12, the accessibility of the equipment makes it suitable for younger children as well.
Cash and check donations can be brought to City Hall. Checks should made out to the City of Washburn. Donations can be made online. Any donation made to the City of Washburn is tax deductible.
Thompson's West End Park Campground has 50 designated camping sites with an overflow area, primarily servicing RV camping, and has experienced full capacity for weeks/months at a time during the prime camping season. A master plan for the park was completed in 2015, which included camping expansion. Current user needs are shifting toward traditional RV camping.
The City hired Cooper Engineering to review and provide potential expansion at two locations within the park: 1) The current overflow camping area above the boat ramp; 2) An open field east of 6th Avenue used for overflow parking.
At the November 14, 2022 City Council Meeting, Council approved RV campground expansion and a bathroom at the overflow camping area. Council also directed the Parks Committee to present alternative camping recommendations for the open field area at the March 2023 council meeting.