Best Of

Best Baseball Fields In Orange County

April 30, 2016 / 5:00 AM PDT / KCAL News

The Southern California weather couldn't be more pleasant for a weekend softball or baseball game with friends or co-workers. The top stadiums and fields that are available to play on in Orange County are accessible and well cared for. While some of the parks can get a little busy during league time, in general the fields are clean and organized, parking is abundant and seating for spectators is plentiful. Reserving a field is typically required, with park fees attached. Local players who are 'free-agents'; can usually discover a pick-up game at any of these OC fields.

Woodfield Park
26800 Woodfield Drive
Aliso Viejo, CA 92656
(949) 243-7750
www.avca.net

Overseen by the Aliso Viejo Community Association (AVCA), Woodfield Park is one of the best parks with baseball fields. As the home playing field to the all-star Aliso Viejo Little League, Woodfield Park is beautifully manicured and very well taken care of throughout the year. Fields are surrounded by shaded bleachers for fans, while offering awnings to keep the players out of the sun. Permanent restrooms are close by, and concession stands are available for selling refreshments. The AVCA maintains 21 parks in the community, as well as hosting community events including the Spring Celebration & Pancake Breakfast, July 4th Fireworks and Summer Movie Night series. Contact AVCA for field use and questions.

Hart Park
701 S. Glassell St.
Orange, CA 92866
(714) 744-7274

Locals visit Hart Park for multiple events — from community picnics and family reunions to summer swimming lessons, throwing a football around and running the bases. Hart Park is a part of Parks and Recreation of the City of Orange. There are two fields ideal for either baseball or softball games. Visitors must reserve them to play on them. Call the Community Services Department at (714) 744-7272 to reserve and to obtain fee information. The fields can also be used at night.

Colonel Bill Barber Marine Corps Memorial Park
4 Civic Center Plaza
Irvine, CA 92606
(949) 724-6714

Home to the Deanna Manning Stadium, the Bill Barber Park offers several inviting features to keep softball players on the field. In addition to the Deanna Manning Stadium, where CIF Finals are often held, there are three additional lighted softball fields. Four batting cages are also available for practicing. Fields are well-maintained, and the stadium areas are clean. Four bathrooms are on site, along with 17 drinking fountains. It's best to call (949) 724-6830 or (949) 724-6661 to reserve fields and cages. Fees start at $45 and goes up from there depending on team needs and field light usage.

Related: Best Batting Cages In OC

Tustin Sports Park
12850 Robinson Drive
Tustin, CA 92781
(714) 573-3000
www.tustinca.org

Tustin Sports Park is the best place for a co-ed softball pick-up game. While there are lots of opportunities to play in the recreation league, it's just as easy to show up to the park with your a mitt and sneakers and join the game. Players really appreciate that the field lines are clean, the well-lit fields and maintained grass. If you are more interested in watching the game, the bleachers are safe, and the parking is ample. Tustin Sports Park lives up to its name featuring three lighted softball diamonds, two multi-use play fields, lighted tennis and basketball courts, food concessions, and trails for hiking and running. It's best to call (714) 573-3326 to reserve facilities.

Ted Craig Regional Park
3300 State College Blvd.
Fullerton, CA 92832
(714) 973-3180

Named in honor of a long time public servant in Orange County, the Ted Craig Regional Park in Fullerton is a beautiful environment to while away the daytime hours, with some interesting history. During the last 15,000 years, the Gabriolino mission Indian tribe (Tongva) used the hills and valleys of the area for hunting and gathering. Guests visit here for the park's creeks and lake, rolling hills and distinct walking and hiking trails as well as the sports aspects. Craig Park has one baseball field and three softball fields. These fields are for daytime use only, and if you want to get a game going it's up to you to bring in equipment and bases. Volleyball, tennis and racquetball courts are featured here, as well. Plan on paying for parking -- $3 during the week, and $5 on weekend days.

Sheryl Craig is a writer with a passion for interesting finds and treasures in Los Angeles. She has a background in journalism and public relations. A mother of two daughters, Sheryl integrates her healthy lifestyle into raising her children. Her work can be found at Examiner.com.