This paper focuses on how between 1965 and the present, the field of recreation has and has not accomplished the goals of author and educator J. B. Nash's in regard to recreation, physical education, and health, focusing on public recreation sponsored by city governments, county governments, and special tax districts. The paper looks at Nash's beliefs about: playgrounds; daily experiences as they relate to personal development, character development, and creativity; ethics; and physical fitness. It concludes that the country has made good progress with respect to understanding experiences, developing ethical positions, and promoting fitness, noting that an enduring commitment is needed to sustain the progress. However, it asserts that it is necessary to revisit the issue of what a playground ought to be, since Nash's vision of playgrounds provides much greater opportunity to build individuals and communities than more contemporary perspectives. (Contains 12 references.) (SM)