Buggybuddys Guide to Walks and Picnic Spots in Perth
The ultimate guide to the best walks and picnic spots in Perth! Kids love burning off energy at parks, and Perth’s got some of the best with walks and picnic spots in the world.
Discover Whiteman Park! Whiteman Park is a unique recreation and conservation reserve that covers nearly 4,000 hectares of natural bushland. It includes picnic spots and leisure facilities. Explore the Children’s Forest, see wildlife in their natural habitat and pack a picnic lunch.
Likewise, take a visit to the Wanneroo Botanical Gardens. This features a kaleidoscope of colours, sights and sounds that will overwhelm your senses. Walk amongst the dappled shade of the trees, explore the many flower displays, rockeries and waterfalls. Play a round of miniature golf while you’re there!
Explore John Forrest National Park, one of Australia’s oldest conservation areas and WA’s first national park. The visitor area of John Forrest National Park contains barbecue and picnic facilities, in addition to cultivated gardens of native plants. The area around the brook provides a beautiful area for a picnics. There are tables surrounding the Rock Pool and barbecue facilities close by.
Similarly, Bells Rapids Brigadoon, where the Avon and Swan rivers meet, is a favourite spot for a family picnic at any time of year. Marvel at the abundant wildflowers and the many swimming holes that are great for cooling off in.
There are many wonderful walking and picnic spots to discover across Western Australia. Make some beautiful family memories today!
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FEATUREDFeaturedDiscover a hidden treasure in Perth’s northern suburbs – the Wanneroo Botanic Gardens has been captivating visitors since 1981. Experience 36 holes of pure Mini Golf fun set amidst one of Perth’s most picturesque garden settings. Challenge yourself on two distinct courses, the Garden and the Billiard Golf course, that together form Australia’s largest outdoor Mini Golf complex. Each track is masterfully designed with its own unique obstacles, curves, ramps, and challenges. Test your skills and conquer the tricks and traps of these two fantastic Mini Golf courses. Whether you’re a novice or a seasoned pro, there’s endless fun and Read more…
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FEATUREDFeaturedWhiteman Park is a unique recreation and conservation reserve that covers nearly 4,000 hectares of natural bushland and leisure facilities in Perth’s northern suburbs. Whiteman Park is full of fun and interesting things to do with the kids, every day of the year, and school holidays are no different! When was the last time you selfied with a koala? Rode on an old-fashioned tram? Or just simply wandered amongst the native bushland? Whiteman Park is a unique recreation and conservation reserve that covers nearly 4,000 hectares of natural bushland and leisure facilities in Perth’s northern suburbs. Open every day of Read more…
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Herdsman Lake Regional Park is a great location for a family walk, play and picnic. There are 2 playgrounds around the lake, one at Glendalough Open Space and the other at Popeye Lake Parkland. Glendalough Open Space is a lovely little play area with parking directly next to it off the main road access. This area has swings, seesaw, flying fox, slides and numerous climbing frames to entertain kids of all ages. The surrounding thick woodland and the main walking/cycling path around the lake make this is a great spot to start and end a nature walk. During our visit Read more…
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Point Fraser Foreshore Reserve has a fresh new look thanks to a complete Playground renewal, transforming the space into a nature‑based play area right on the edge of the Swan River. Just a short stroll from the Perth CBD along Riverside Drive, this is a great stop for families with school‑aged kids who love climbing, balancing and exploring, with the bonus of gorgeous river views and wetlands all around. The original Point Fraser Playground, built in 2005, has been replaced with a more natural, landscaped play space designed to better meet community needs. The new layout still makes the most Read more…
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Located towards the very end of West Swan Road in the Swan Valley heading towards Great Northern highway, is a great little spot to bring the kids to teach them a little bit of history about our traditional landowners and take in the valley view. The Memorial Park was created to commemorate the life, death and spirit of the Nyoongar leader and warrior, Yagan. The Yagan Memorial Park officially opened in 2010 and brings to an end a long campaign by the Noongar people to reunite the head of the warrior Yagan with his body, which is believed to have Read more…
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The Perry Lakes Reserve is a 200 acre nature reserve found on the eastern edge of the larger Bold Park reserve in Floreat. There are two playgrounds here, set amongst beautiful trees, large grassed areas and two lakes. The older playground on the western side of the reserve is shaded by trees, it also has the extra sun protection of shade sails throughout. A lot of the traditional metal play equipment is accessible for people in wheelchairs and less able bodied people, as there are ramps throughout the main structure and also a disability swing. There are two large metal Read more…
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John Oldham Park is one of those Perth spots that surprises you every time you visit. Hidden between the freeway and the Swan River off Mounts Bay Road, it feels a world away from the city traffic just metres above. Once you’ve pulled into the small paid car park and wandered over the footbridge, you’re suddenly surrounded by tall trees, birdsong and water views – it’s a real little bush escape on the edge of the CBD. The main Playground sits right by the bridge and is ideal for a relaxed play while you set up a picnic. The equipment Read more…
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Whitfords Nodes Park is a beautiful park for family BBQs, picnics and mums’ groups during, Autumn, Spring and Winter months. It’s also a great place to walk through with scooters/bikes if you’re heading out for a family walk. The Whitfords Nodes Park area consists of several playframes, slides, sandpits, BBQ’s and picnic shelters and lots of trees providing shade if you’re having a picnic. The beach is also very close although you can’t see it from the park there are many pathways directly to the beach from the main grassed park area. So be WARNED that little ones who tend Read more…
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Experience Perth’s hidden Garden, Araluen Botanic Park just 35km south-east of the Perth CBD. The Park is open every day of the year, except Christmas Day. Araluen Botanic Park is nestled in serene Australian bushland, filled with beautiful gardens and family events. Admission fees apply. BUGGYBUDDYS REVIEW: Araluen Botanic Park, Roleystone Read more…
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If you are after a Sunday afternoon hike with the whole family, fur babies included, Ellis Brook Valley Reserve is an absolute MUST! Recognised as the richest wildflower location in the Perth Metropolitan Area, Ellis Brook Valley is home to over 500 species of wildflowers, a 60 foot waterfall and only a 35 minute drive from Perth. Unlike National Parks, entry to Ellis Brook Valley Reserve is free, the gates are open from 8am to 5pm every day, but will be closed on days of very high or extreme fire danger. There are four walk trails of varying degrees of Read more…
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Serpentine National Park Cost: $13 per car Buggybuddys Review of Serpentine National Park Serpentine National Park Read more…
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Discover the natural playground of Lake Leschenaultia, a hidden gem in Perth’s hills! This beautiful lake offers endless fun for families with: Crystal clear waters perfect for swimming and splashing Easy walking trails where you might spot local wildlife Shady picnic spots for family lunches Fun canoe and paddleboard adventures Mountain bike trails for riders of all ages Grassy areas ideal for games and relaxation Family-friendly camping under the stars Safe swimming areas for kids BBQ facilities for outdoor cooking Pack your sunscreen and bring the whole family for a day of outdoor adventure! Whether you’re planning a peaceful picnic, Read more…
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The new Tomato Lake all-abilities playground has opened and it appears to be a big hit as it was very busy when we visited. The playground is in front between the cafe and the bbq picnic area. The bbq area has also been refreshed with new picnic tables. The playground has been designed to suit toddlers through to older kids, including those with disabilities. It is bright and colourful with soft fall base The playground features an inclusive seesaw, which is the only one of its kind in WA. There are a number of bench seats along the car park Read more…
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Jackadder Lake Reserve is a lovely family park ideal for a morning or afternoon of fun play and scooting/cycling around the beautiful lake and spotting the wildlife. The playground is suitable for kids of all age and is set in a mixture of sand and soft play flooring. Kids can enjoy wiggly slides, straight slides, and curly slides all of which aren’t particularly steep so great for the toddlers. There’s a few steps up to some of the structures and lots of platforms and climbing fun. The platform walkways surround the main structure and the kids enjoyed some fantasy play Read more…
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Situated on the site of the old quarantine station, on the hill above the Bicton Baths with an awesome view of the river, Bicton Quarantine Park is a picturesque spot for a family barbecue or picnic. Bicton Quarantine Park features a playground with a fence and shade sails. The main playground structure here has two slides of different sizes, climbing ladders, monkey bars, a tunnel, a rope bridge, and a climbing wall. Separate, there is a spring rocker, and two swings, a toddler swing and a regular swing. There are a number of paths running through the park and down Read more…
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Located in Viveash on the Swan River, Reg Bond Reserve includes walk and cycle trails that link it to Woodbridge Riverside Park. The John George Trail is a 5.5km, with both a gravel and paved option, which gives access for walkers, bikers, wheelchairs and prams. The trail has a variety of flora, wildlife, historical points and views of our wine region. The trail has a lot of rest stops to take in the beautiful views with logs, benches and tables. There is a rope swing hidden along the banks of the river so make sure you keep your eye out Read more…
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Located 45 minutes north of Perth, Yanchep National Park offers diverse natural and cultural experiences. Home to Western grey kangaroos, koalas, and abundant birdlife. Features include limestone caves, Aboriginal cultural experiences, historic buildings, walking trails, and picnic facilities. Crystal Cave tours operate daily, and visitors can enjoy the 240-metre koala boardwalk. Open daily from 8:30am to 4:30pm, with entry fees applying. Perfect for family outings, bushwalking, and wildlife spotting. Buggybuddys Reviews Yanchep National Park Yanchep National Park Play Trail Crystal Cave, Yanchep National Park Chocolate Drops Tearooms, Yanchep National Park Treetops Adventure, Yanchep National Park Read more…
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Located just off Great Eastern Highway in Ascot, Adachi Park is a lovely little spot for families needing a play break or a peaceful stroll by the Swan River. Many will recognise it from the quirky little brick house visible from the highway, but there’s much more here than meets the eye, including upgraded play equipment, riverside paths and shady picnic spots. The Playground itself is compact but well designed, with a focus on climbing and active play. The main structure features two slides and lots of rope elements that encourage kids to scramble, balance and climb. The larger slide Read more…
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Lake Monger Reserve is a fantastic destination for a family walk in Perth with kids of all ages. There are a few parking spots around Lake Monger Reserve, 3 of which are on Lake Monger Drive. If you use the car park nearest St Vincents Avenue you’ll see a wishing well and the largest playground in the reserve. The larger playground is shaded and partly sand and soft fall based, it is also fully fenced and gated. The playground has disability friendly apparatus including ramps and swing. There’s also a slide, climbing walls, swings and rocker. The playground is Read more…
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Located just 30 minutes from Perth CBD in Mundy Regional Park, Lesmurdie Falls is a stunning destination for a family day out. The 50m waterfall is a highlight, especially during spring when the water is flowing and wildflowers are in bloom. The main lookout is an easy 800m return walk from the Falls Road carpark, suitable for younger children. For families with older kids seeking more adventure, the 2km Foot of the Falls Trail and the 3km Valley Loop Trail offer a more challenging hike down to the base of the falls. The site features a large car park, toilet Read more…
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Location: Gnangara Pines, Pessoa Road, Lexia Opening Times: 24 hours Opening Days: 7 Days Kid Friendly: Yes Pram Friendly: Yes Dog-Friendly: Yes (when there isn’t a sledging event on) Mode of activity: Exploration and Adventure (walking) Time Taken: From 30 mins to endless hours What to Pack: Nappy bag, buckets for collecting pine cones and other treasures, drinks/picnic, sun scream, hats. If it’s a wet day with muddy puddles; gum boots, rain coat and leave a towel and change of clothes in the car. Safety: The only issue we have ever had is Read more…
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Noble Falls is a family-friendly Perth Hills nature spot for an easy day out—think shady bush picnics, a gentle waterfall and creek to explore, plus a short walk trail. It’s a great option when you want fresh air and simple outdoor fun less than an hour from Perth. Buggybuddys Review Noble Falls, Gidgegannup View this post on Instagram A post shared by Adriana | The best Perth things to do with your little people ✨ (@perthtoddleradventures) Read more…
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Chidley Point Reserve is a real hidden gem on the Swan River and one of those spots that feels like a little holiday without leaving Perth. Tucked away at the eastern tip of Mosman Park, this riverside reserve offers calm water, soft sand and beautiful natural bushland, making it a gorgeous place for a relaxed play, paddle and picnic with the kids. Set along Chidley Way, the reserve is spread over a steep, tree‑covered slope that leads down to a sheltered sandy beach on the river’s edge. The upper area is more open and grassy, with mature trees providing shade Read more…
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Tucked off Montreal Street, Booyeembara Park is one of those Fremantle gems that feels bigger once you’re actually inside it. It’s a wide, open stretch of parkland with bushy edges, walking circuits and a central man‑made lake that gives the whole space a calm, “exhale” vibe—great when you want to get the kids outdoors without committing to a full day trip. The Playground here is small but memorable, and it suits older kids best. The standout is the quirky five‑way swing set, designed for ages 6–12. It’s a fun, social piece of equipment that feels a bit different to your Read more…
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Buggybuddys Reviews Mundaring Weir With Kids No1 Pump Station, Mundaring Weir Mundaring Weir Hotel Mundaring Weir Read more…
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Kings Park is one of Perth’s most beloved family destinations, offering 400 hectares of stunning parklands overlooking the Swan River and Perth city skyline. The park combines natural bushland, manicured gardens, and family-friendly facilities that make it perfect for visitors with children of all ages. The park features several excellent playgrounds, including the popular Ivey Watson Playground designed specifically for children under 6, and the Rio Tinto Naturescape, where kids can climb, splash, and explore natural play spaces. Wide, paved paths throughout the park are perfect for prams and strollers, making it easily accessible for parents with young children. The Read more…
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John Forrest National Park is Western Australia’s oldest national park, established in 1900. Located in the Darling Scarp east of Perth, this historic park offers visitors: Beautiful walking trails including the Railway Reserve Heritage Trail and the John Forrest Heritage Trail Scenic waterfalls including National Park Falls and Hovea Falls Abundant native wildlife viewing opportunities Historic railway tunnels Picnic facilities and BBQ areas Stunning wildflower displays in spring Mountain biking trails Visitor center and tavern Just 30 minutes from Perth CBD For the most up-to-date information about facilities, entry fees and opening hours, visitors should contact the park directly or Read more…
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Bells Rapids is a popular family-friendly picnic and walking spot on the Swan River, located in Brigadoon in the Perth Hills. Known for its picturesque rapids, rocky outcrops and suspension bridge, it’s a great place for kids to explore nature, throw stones in the water, spot birds and enjoy a bushwalk close to the city. Why Families Will Love It Scenic Suspension Bridge: Kids will love walking over the long wooden bridge with views of the rapids below. Great photo spot. Easy Riverside Exploring: Plenty of shallow edges (in low water) for supervised stone throwing and playing by the water’s Read more…
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McCallum Park is a large, but seemingly underused, park located near that difficult to negotiate junction between Shepperton Road and Canning Hwy. It’s accessed from Taylor St (off Canning Hwy) and there are plenty of parking spaces (some shaded) on both Taylor St. and the adjacent Garland St. Toilets (LHS) and parking on Taylor St. There are male and female toilets on both Taylor and Garland Streets and these were….well…what you would expect in a park. Pretty basic, but clean and functioning. The park itself is huge – plenty of space for an impromptu post-picnic footy or cricket match. BBQ, Read more…
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The Zig Zag Scenic Drive is a short, one-way hill road in Gooseberry Hill with some of the best views over Perth. Winding for about 3km down the Darling Scarp, it follows an old timber railway route and features tight hairpin bends, rocky cuttings and several gravel pull-off bays where you can safely stop for photos. Families can enjoy city and coastal plain views by day, wildflowers in spring, and twinkling lights at night. The drive starts at Lascelles Parade in Gooseberry Hill and finishes on Ridge Hill Road near Helena Valley/Maida Vale, making it an easy add-on to a Read more…
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There is a way to feel like you’ve planned a quality family outing, without driving two hours to get there. Churchman Brook Dam is located in the Perth hills just a short drive from Armadale. Built in the 1920’s this is one of Perth’s main water catchments that supply our drinking water. Churchman Brook Dam is a spectacular spot for a picnic with plenty of wide open spaces to throw a rug down and hoist a gazebo up. Or grab one of the many gazebo tables scattered about the grounds, either near the base of the dam by the runoff Read more…
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We all know and love the beautiful Bells Rapids, but just a few Kilometres up the road is a peaceful spot known as Jumbuck Hill Park. Located on rolling hills in Brigadoon, this park is the most peaceful spot we have been to, and at the moment with so much rain you can hear the water flowing in the rocks in different areas of the park. Known for being a great spot for hiking, Jumbuck Hill has the most breathtaking views. You’ll also find two picnic areas. The 1st area has a shelter, bbq, seats and a grassed area where Read more…
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Fishmarket Reserve in Guildford is one of those classic Swan River picnic spots. It’s set right on the river, with the Guildford Boat Ramp nearby, which is suitable for launching small boats, kayaks and canoes. There’s plenty of parking, lots of wide‑open grass and picnic tables, making it an easy place to set up for a few hours of playing, fishing and anything else you’d like to get up to on the water. The new playground on Swan Street has traditional play equipment, with colourful metal structures that are instantly appealing to children. There’s a slide and lots of climbing Read more…
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Just when you thought Bunbury couldn’t get any more kid-friendly – along comes another fantastic playground! Joining Sykes Foreshore Splash Park, Koolambidi Woola Youth Precinct (skate park) and Koombana Foreshore Playground, Mangrove Cove is a spot where nature and adventure collide. This nature playground invites families to pause by the Leschenault Inlet and enjoy a little outdoor fun. Whether you’re embarking on a road trip down south or simply seeking somewhere new to explore in Bunno, this newly opened playground promises plenty to discover. The Mangrove Cove car park is found across the road from the Dolphin Discovery Centre. Here, there’s Read more…
