benick wrote:

"theedudenator" wrote in message
...
I will be building a backyard playground this spring.
I have been searching online and most of what I find is "free plans"

I was planning on using pea gravel as a base, but I want to make sure
I have proper drainage.

I was planning on leveling and digging down some with my tractor.
Installing all of the poles
Putting down a heavy layer of plastic
Timbers around the edges to contain the gravel.
Then filling with pea gravel.

But I think I need to add something for drainage.

I'd dig it down a little deeper and put in a foot or so of coarse gravel
or crushed stone then landscape fabric (instead of plastic) then bark
mulch..Much softer and less scraped knees...

I agree. First, using plain sheet plastic will prevent water from
draining. Landscape fabric, also plastic, is permeable and allows
drainage. I hate pea gravel, from the days in the playground - it
raises dust and gets scattered all over. Shredded cypress mulch is nice
and fine, stays down pretty well. Needs to be replaced or replenished
every couple of years - nice and soft. Occ. sliver? Safer than
timbers. How about the interlocking rubbery flooring? Outdoor carpet
over gravel?