Why you should make the most of South Australia’s council-owned parks and playgrounds this summer
Summer in South Australia means longer days, warm weather and more time to get outside with the family – but, with school holidays right around the corner, keeping everyone entertained can sometimes be a challenge.
Luckily, councils across the state create and care for thousands of beautiful parks and playgrounds – offering endless opportunities to keep the kids engaged and entertained.
Why open spaces are essential for communities
Playgrounds play a vital role in the health and wellbeing of communities – offering an outlet for imagination and adventure while encouraging lifelong habits of exercise and social interaction.
“Open spaces are more than just places to play – they’re the heart of our communities,” said Mayor Heather Holmes-Ross, President of LGA SA.
“These parks encourage active lifestyles, foster social connections and provide safe, inclusive spaces where people of all ages, needs, abilities and cultures can play, connect and build a stronger sense of belonging.”
Council’s role in maintaining open spaces
As our cities and towns continue to grow, councils play a vital role in ensuring safe, sustainable and well-maintained playgrounds and parks remain accessible for everyone to enjoy – managing maintenance and upgrades across dozens of locations each year.
This includes:
Park maintenance and management
Mowing lawns, pruning trees, taking care of bins and rubbish, and controlling pest plants and wild animals to keep green spaces clean for families and the wider community.
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Landscaping and planting
Designing and maintaining structured gardens, planting seasonal flowers and ensuring public areas are vibrant and welcoming, no matter the time of year.
Park equipment
Installing and maintaining benches, tables, barbecues and playground equipment to ensure the spaces remain functional and, above all else, fun.
Your go-to parks and playgrounds guide by area:
Metro Adelaide
City of West Torrens
Recently upgraded, Frank Norton Reserve combines modern play equipment with plenty of green space. The new features include climbing structures, swings and accessible pathways.
City of Marion
An inclusive playground designed for all ages, the new Elizabeth Ryan Reserve offers a mix of creative play structures, safe open areas and seating for carers – encouraging active and sensory play.
City of Holdfast
Minutes from the Glenelg foreshore, Wigley Reserve Playground includes climbing towers, slides and water play features – a coastal favourite for all-day fun.
City of Playford
Packed with action, Playford Alive Town Park in Munno Para has it all – climbing frames, a flying fox, skate park and a basketball court. It’s the perfect place for kids to burn energy.
City of Norwood Payneham & St Peters
A local icon, Dunstan Adventure Playground’s award-winning design features giant climbing structures, nature play areas and open areas to explore for hours on end.
City of Port Adelaide Enfield
Designed to celebrate Kaurna culture and heritage, Yitpi Yartapuultiku’s unique play environment invites children to learn as they play. Featuring artwork, storytelling spaces and nature-based elements, it offers a rich cultural experience for families.
Regional SA
Adelaide Hills Council
Nestled in the heart of Stirling, Steamroller Park is a beloved destination for families with a fully fenced playground featuring separate areas for little ones and older kids. Highlights include baby swings, a mini slide, cubby houses, balancing beams and a historic steamroller.
Town of Gawler
The upgraded Ayling & Dwyer Lime Kiln Park play space blends natural charm with adventure. Rope climbs, monkey bars, shaded seating and an accessible carousel make it easy for families to spend a relaxing afternoon outdoors.
City of Victor Harbor
Close to the iconic Granite Island Causeway, the George T Fisher Nature Playground offers a delightful blend of coastal charm and play. Children can explore a 1.5m-high mound, navigate slides, climb walls and crawl through tunnels.
Mount Barker District Council
Following a significant upgrade in 2023, the popular Keith Stephenson Park Playground now features whimsical sculptures, alongside nature play elements, including climbing structures and a mini twin slide perfect for little explorers.
For more information on South Australian council run parks and playgrounds, visit Local Councils.
This article is brought to you by InDaily and LGA South Australia.
