Find it at: Stirling St, Tusmore

Tusmore Park Wading Pool is fast becoming a favourite spot for visitors to cool down during the warmer months.

The design features a fully fenced and shaded wading pool, lawned areas for picnics, a new creek style section, tiered seating and water play equipment for plenty of splashing and playing during the summer months.

A few points worth mentioning:

• It’s fully fenced!! Hoorah!
• It’s unsupervised which means there’s NO lifeguard on duty – so pretty please keep an eye on your kids while they’re in the water.
• It’s open sunrise to sunset.
• No bookings required.
• and best of all, it’s FREE!

Tusmore Park is a gorgeous spot in the Eastern suburbs with plenty of room for picnics, birthday parties and weekend BBQs. As well as the fabulous wading pool there’s a nearby playground, tennis court, toilets and a gorgeous creek running right through the middle.

Tusmore Wading Pool Opening Hours:

The Pool is open during the warmer months (from mid-october until April).
Monday: 6 am – 8 pm
Tuesday: 10 am – 8 pm (pool is closed 6am-10am for cleaning)
Wednesday: 6 am – 8 pm
Thursday: 6 am – 8 pm
Friday: 10 am – 8 pm
Saturday: 7 am – 7 pm
Sunday: 8 am – 6 pm

Things to consider:

Each year from approximately April-October the Tusmore Park Wading Pool closes for cleaning, refilling, chemical treatment and maintenance.

Mannum is one of SA’s most beautiful towns, located on the River Murray about an hour or so from the city (Great footy team too…Go the mighty Roos!) and home to most of the gorgeous houseboats you see floating along the Murray. Such a magnificent spot for a day trip or a base for a family holiday on the Murray.

Recently, they have upgraded a fabulous little playground (fully fenced too I might add) right in the heart of town on the banks of the river. Mary Ann Reserve has been transformed into a modern playground suitable for toddlers right up to the 10yo crowd, with the highlight being a houseboat inspired playground with slides, climbing nets and cubby houses. You will also find a range of swings and other small bits and pieces to keep the kids entertained, while you can just sit back and soak in the view……which is just unreal. Kind of hurts typing about it and not being there to be honest.

We highly recommend the Pretoria for a good family feed, but the playground has toilets, bench seats, plenty of grass (outside the fenced area though) and plenty of shade from the huge river gums and a lovely undercover area.

This is s fantastic one stop shop for the family during the hot summer months. With something for every member of the family you can’t go wrong!

Playford Town Park is a HUGE area opened in June 2015. Bring your bike, your scooter, your towel, your picnic blanket, footy, basketball and your BBQ gear and enjoy the whole day down here.

The water play areas are the biggest draw card with 4 separate water play areas for the kids to explore and plenty of seating nearby for parents and friends to supervise the kids while they catch up in a great location.
The playground itself boasts an incredibly wide slide as well as a tunnel slide, a sandpit and scoop, rock climbing, swings, a huge rope climbing structure, flying fox and more! There are also basketball courts and a skate park nearby.
We’d love to see some accessible play equipment though. A liberty swing and other wheelchair accessible equipment would be great.
There is also a great BBQ space for families or groups of friends to cook up a storm as well as an oval to kick the footy around.

Public toilets are available at The Stretton Centre or near the wetlands.

Just up the road (walking distance) is a small shopping complex so if you’ve forgotten the snags don’t worry – all is not lost!

What a beautiful playground for kids of all ages! Renovated back in late 2012, the Bonython Park Playground has a some very cool features not found in the typical suburban park. Some of the best equipment includes two 25m flying fox lines fun for kids of all ages and an extensive water play area complete with pumps, gates and a watermill. Kids love playing and experimenting with water and this is a safe and interactive water zone to suits kids as young as 1, while still entertaining the older ones.

The huge ‘mouse wheel’ can accommodate numerous energetic kids, there is a variety of swings and we love the wheelchair accessible carousel, water play troughs, communication boards and a nest swing that make this park a good one for kids of all ages and abilities. You also have to love the shade thrown by beautiful big old gum trees in this park.

The playground backs onto a well kept oval for plenty of open space and a kit of the ball or fly of the kite and there are both toilet and BBQ facilities here.

Perhaps the star of the show (for parents) is Cafe Bonython, located directly at the playground. It’s got fabulous coffee, indoor play and so many treats and initiatives for the kids. We would happily brunch or lunch here any day of the week, in fact it is one of our absolute favourite places to eat with the kids. They even do Birthday Parties

Worth noting, this one is not a fenced playground an that it is situated on linear path and the Torrens River. It’s a fair distance however there are also some duck ponds on the other side of the park, so its just a reminder to keep your eyes on the little people.

To top off a great park, you will see city trains cross a small river bridge a very short walk away and you are situated under the flight path so it makes for some excellent plane spotting, depending what direction the air traffic are taking off / landing on the day that you visit.

Here’s our roundup of playgrounds across 91������ý’s North, East, South, and West where you can let your kids play while you both stay comfortable!

91������ý City

Bonython Park Playground, 91������ý

Bonython Park Playground has a some very cool features not found in the typical suburban park. Some of the best equipment includes two 25m flying fox lines fun for kids of all ages and an extensive water play area complete with pumps, gates and a watermill. Kids love playing and experimenting with water and this is a safe and interactive water zone to suits kids as young as 1, while still entertaining the older ones.

Find it here!

Marshmallow Park, 91������ý

This playground includes some brilliant new nature play features, alongside more traditional swings, slides and climbing frames. There is a great water feature hill that flows into a giant sandpit and some awesome equipment that is designed to be accessible from a wheelchair. A new giant slide, super cool jellyfish and witchetty grub sculptures, and huge wooden climbing frame complete the fully fenced ‘junior’ area

Check it out here!

East

Langman Reserve Playground, Burnside

This wonderful playground includes toddler-friendly play equipment plus a sports library where you can borrow equipment like footballs, netballs and tennis courts to use on the large oval and courts.

Find more out here!

Payneham Oval Playground

The park has a jigsaw theme and the range of equipment has something for everyone from toddlers to older kids. It includes asand area with digger, water play, a climbing wall and swings.

More info here!

Penfold Park Playground, Magill

You will find toilets, drinking fountains, a huge lush grassed area, walking trails (or bike/scooter trails for us!), tennis courts, BBQ, seating and under cover areas (fabulous large rotunda!). The playground is also shaded too, apart from the large amount of natural shade throughout the reserve.

Find out more here!

Kensington Park Oval

Nature play is the theme here at this beautiful toddler playground with the playground sitting nicely with the local scenery. There is shade, toilets, a water fountain and tables and a reasonable amount of play equipment, with swings, balancing logs, and a small tower and slide which will keep the young ones happy enough. 

All the details here!

North

Thorndon Park Playground, Paradise

The park’s facilities are also first class, including walking paths, BBQs, toilets, rotunda, pavilion, ovals, exercise equipment, picnic shelters and the carpark. Shortly after opening, council listened to community feedback and installed several extra shade installations over the play equipment, which we applaud! The new shade will cover the carousel, trampolines, junior slide and swings

Check it out here!

Golden Fields Adventure Playground, Golden Grove

With two playgrounds, separated by a large grassy area and fitness equipment this playgrouund is an absolute gem. There are also toilets located at both play areas.

Find out more here!

Cobbler Creek Recreation Park, Golden Grove

The natural form playspace features multiple ‘raptor-themed birds nest’ climbing structures in the middle of the play area which give a really cool birds eye view from above. There are also large sandpits built to look like birdsnests from above, slides, a flying fox, rockbed, balance frames, swings, toilets, BBQs and bike tracks.

More details here!

Illyarrie Reserve Playground, Surrey Downs

A great little Northern suburbs park that is a great spot for a picnic or birthday party. Illyarrie is a nice big space with plenty of natural shade. There are two playground areas with equipment including a tunnel slide and toddler slide, a few different swings including a nest swing and a great climbing frame that little ninjas will love. Little kids will love the fire truck and you can even BYO ping pong bat and balls to use on the permanent table! That’s something new!

More details here!

Solandra Reserve Playground, Modbury North

Pack up the change of clothes kids, we are going to sand and water play nirvana! Solandra Reserve out at Modbury North has had a fab upgrade, with the space transformed into a brilliant community facility. Featuring the already mentioned sand and water play features (undercover too we might add!), chuck in a great little pump track and a range of equipment to suit the big kids and little ones, this one will definitely be getting a return visit.

Check it out here!

Jack Watkins Reserve, Kilburn

Toilets and Trains, what a combo! This new upgrade is EPIC and it might just be one of 91������ý’s best all round playgrounds for all ages. It’s not only a brilliant play space, but also a fabulous party park, seriously, it has everything.

More info here!

Glover North Playground, North 91������ý

Better known as Helicopter Park to many, Glover North Playground is located on Lefevre Terrace in North 91������ý. With a large helicopter as its centrepiece, smaller kids can slide out of the chopper’s belly as one of the many pint-sized highlights located at this much loved playground. There are also plenty of swings, see-saws, climbing frames and sand play equipment including the popular diggers in the huge sandpit.

Everything you need to know here!

Fremont Park, Elizabeth

There are plenty of BBQs, toilets (THANK YOU!), drinking fountains, heaps of parking, seating for adults and they have even added a basketball court too! Local school children contributed to the upgrade plans which will include new all-abilities play equipment, climbing equipment, spinning cogs, talking tubes and even some Holden themed play/climbing structures. It is so cool!

More info here!

Clonlea Park Playground, Gawler

The skate park is a major hit with a lot of kids both young and old. There is also a small playground near there to keep the little ones happy while the big ones skate.

The main playground is so much fun, complete with rope climbing tower.

More info here!

South

Hessing Crescent Playground, Trott Park

Hessing Crescent was upgraded in September 2024, and this little playground is packed full of features for the under 10s. Did we mention it is FULLY FENCED? There is a public toilet at this one too which is fantastic. You will find it through the public courts to the north of the playground (about 60m) and there is a sign pointing the direction

Find out more here!

Angus Neill Reserve, Seacliff

Located opposite the tranquil beach that runs between Seacliff and Brighton, Angus Neill Reserve is ideal for large gatherings. There’s plenty of parking available around the park and it is extremely well-maintained. During the warmer months, you can see kids setting up slip ‘n’ slides on the weekends and sliding down the spacious grassy knoll.

More details here!

GT Fisher Nature Playground, Victor Harbor

We love how the play area caters for a variety of ages and certainly has something for everyone offering a range of adventures. For the older kids there are lots of climbing options and heaps of funky elements, sculptures and the like that inquisitive eyes will appreciate. For younger kids there’s lots of rocks and logs to balance on, ropes to climb and slides for all sizes.

Check it out here!

Bindarra Reserve Playground, Brighton

This playground features a few different areas. The main equipment play space has been thought out really well and caters for a few different ages. It features lots of rope climbing obstacles , balancing rope stairs, swinging monkey bars and a slippery dip. 

Check it out here!

CC Hood Reserve, Panorama

At the heart of the upgrade is a thoughtfully designed play space featuring a flying fox, a huge multi-level play tower with slides, monkey bars, a “sand factory” for imaginative play, and a range of swings including toddler, basket, and duo options. The accessible roundabout and spring rockers ensure that children of all abilities can join the fun, while stepping pods add an extra challenge for confident climbers.

All the info here!

Glenthorne National Park Adventure Playground

The multi-million dollar nature play space, forming part of SA’s newest national park, Glenthorne National Park opened in 2022 and the nature playground has it all, some of the wonderful playground features include; Multiple slides (including a HUGE tube slide tower), Swings galore, Inclusive inground roundabout, Pram friendly paths, Freestyle nature play (think build your own teepees), Toilets, shaded seating and BBQs, Sand play, Flying Fox and much, much more

Check it out here!

Wilfred Taylor Nature Playspace, Morphett Vale

The junior space is fully fenced (YES!) and features a Hills to Beach creative sand and water play area and a play farm area complete with wooden tractor and sheep rockers. This area also has a number of different swings, slides, seesaw and lots of sensory hands on play that we LOVE

All the info here!

West

Naval Reserve Playground, Birkenhead

The 2022 upgrade to Naval Reserve out Port 91������ý way includes some fabulous playground equipment to challenge the bigger kids. Featuring a huge tower, which is a challenge to climb, with an attached tube slide, there is also a 3-3 basketball court and some swings and equipment for the smaller kids.

All the details here!

MJ McInerney Reserve, West Croydon

If your kids love slides, skate parks or shooting hoops……this is going to be their new favourite playground. We’re talking big slides, small slides, straight slides and one great big epic curly slide that is going to be VERY busy this weekend!

All the info here!

Roy Marten Park, Taperoo

The equipment is quite spread out and has been zoned for ages . You will find the toddler / little kids area under shade. It has been separated either side of the big red tower and features a pirate ship themed play equipment area featuring  slippery dip, a small climbing net, bouncy animals and lots lots more. Over in this area you will also see a swing swing set (inc baby swing ) along with a dual swing for babies and carers to use together.

All the info here!

Semaphore South Foreshore Playground

With plenty of equipment to satisfy even the most avid climbers, but also catering for the real young ones (and its fully fenced!), this is a fantastic alternative to the busy main foreshore precinct. Shaded, fully fenced and with a toilet, this is the perfect summer playground in our opinion!

Check it out here!

The Square, West Beach

Set on the unique coastal precinct of West Beach Parks, it also includes a kiosk (Oceanique Kiosk), shelter, BBQ, shade, toilets and other amenities. It has a great little selection of swings and some inground trampolines that have just the right amount of spring in them and ample opportunity to run, balance and play, just meters from the beach.

Check it out here!

Largs Bay Foreshore Playground

The Largs Bay foreshore play space redevelopment in 2024 brought to life an amazing concept which feels like came straight from the imagination of us as kids! This one is a very popular site with local and visiting families and the ice cream themed playground is sure to make it even more popular.

Check it out here!

Wigley Reserve Playground, Glenelg

This playground is a sensational multi function playspace which will satisfy the climbers, the nature lovers, the jumpers, the exercising types and those who love a good swing. The highlight has to be the huge climbing structure which lets kids of all ages (thanks to really well designed safety netting) climb up nice and high and check out the incredible view of all the fancy expensive boats in the marina. They can either climb over the other side or slide down the huge twisty tube slide! Such fun!

Check it out here!

Collins Reserve, Kidman Park

The second play equipment area located on the other side of the reserve is more suitable for the toddlers and kindy kids. This area has been added on and has the wooden look with a splash of colour amongst it. Featuring 2 slippery dips, swing set including baby swing , some climbing equipment including a rope net , small tunnel, games and my favourite the big green car. This area is mostly sheltered and is close to the tennis courts.

More info here!

This is one of my favourite parks. A beautiful park/playground perfect for the kids to have a play on the playground, enjoy a run on the grass or explore the beautiful manicured gardens.

Partridge House is a beautiful old community home built in 1899 and is now used for private functions with the grounds open each day until 10pm to the public.

The playground caters for a few ages and has a swing set including baby swing, 2 slippery dips, climbing pieces and a few smaller fun pieces for toddlers.

Perfect spot for a family picnic with tables, toilets and BBQ facilities available. Whilst this park does not have shade clothes there is plenty of beautiful shady areas around the park but unfortunately not covering all the play equipment. The park is fenced off however the front gate is open for access to Partridge House Function rooms.

My suggestion if you have small children would be to park in the back street (Penzance St) which is where the playground is situated, and stay down the back end of the park.

This a popular area on weekends for weddings or private functions so just a little note to let you know that the Elk Tree area which is located towards the front of the grounds is off limits during private functions . Plenty of space so this isn’t an issue.

Such a calming and beautiful area that I highly recommend for a lovely family picnic with a gorgeous setting . They allow dogs but just be mindful if there is a private function on.

If in need of a coffee or food there are many restaurants/ coffee shops along Jetty Road appox 5 min walk away that provide take away food and drinks

Location – 38 Partridge St Glenelg with good access and parking from Penzance St

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Shearwater Park Playground was updated mid 2025. This playground is a great mix of nature and play, with sand and water elements that make it even more fun and engaging. There is also a wooden boat and a fun rocking car in the play area, which kids will love! They can let their imaginations run wild—setting off on adventures and make-believe journeys.

Shearwater Park is also located alongside Wynn Vale Dam. It’s such a peaceful and pretty spot—perfect for a short walk with the kids. The paths around the Dam have been upgraded, so they’re smooth and pram-friendly, and there’s a lovely little boardwalk that adds to the charm. Great for families, especially if you’re after an easy walk and some fresh air. Why not feed the ducks while you are there!

Playground features include:

• Swings
• Slides
• Custom-made wooden boat
• Sand and water play
• Rocking car
• See-saw
• Shade sails
• Inclusive picnic facilities and grassed area
• Pram-Friendly walking paths around the adjoining dam
• (toilets are located on the opposite side of the dam. A toilet block will be added to the playground in the next stage of development)

Dalston Reserve is a peaceful, tree-lined local park offering a lovely playground suited to toddlers and younger children. With plenty of shade and open space, it’s a great option for a quiet outdoor escape.

Key Features:

• Climbing structure with slide, rope bridge, and monkey bars
• Swings including a toddler swing
• Spinner for added sensory fun
• Natural shade from large trees
• Grassy areas ideal for ball games or picnics

While the playground is on the smaller side, the safe, suburban setting and easy street parking make it a convenient spot for local families. Best for toddlers and early primary school-aged children.

Better known as Helicopter Park to many, Glover North Playground is located on Lefevre Terrace in North 91������ý. With a large helicopter as its centrepiece, smaller kids can slide out of the chopper’s belly as one of the many pint-sized highlights located at this much loved playground. There are also plenty of swings, see-saws, climbing frames and sand play equipment including the popular diggers in the huge sandpit.

Much of the playground’s fun is best suited to younger kids aged 1-5 years, however older kids will also enjoy the larger climbing frames, rope bridge and forts. Most of the equipment has softfall rubber matting or barkchips to break any falls. There is a range of equipment that isn’t common elsewhere with Heaps of things to climb on, slide down, walk across and more.

One of the best fenced playgrounds near the CBD, Helicopter Park has shaded, grassy picnic spots, drink fountain, toilets and BBQ facilities. Keep in mind that most of the play equipment is not shaded. There are also horses agisted in the nearby parklands which the kids love – take care though as patting and feeding is not recommended.

There is also a super cute Little Free Library where you can ‘bring a book, take a book’ so be sure to bring one along with you next time you visit.

Tanunda Recreation Park received an upgrade with an inclusive playground in 2022 and it is fabulous!

Features of the Inclusive Playground include a brilliant double flying fox which includes a seated option which is perfect for the little ones to be included. This was ideal for us as we raced the little kids vs the older kids to determine the family flying fox champion! You will also find in-ground trampolines, climbing/elevated play, slides, swings, sand and water play, barbecue shelter, drink fountain, seating and an all-access toilet block.

This is a fantastic stop is a must as you explore the beautiful Barossa Valley. For more family friendly activities, check out our Barossa feature here.