Banks Reserve, Mount Lawley

Banks Reserve in Mount Lawley is a beautiful riverside park on Joel Terrace, right on the banks of the Swan River. The large, leafy reserve is built around magnificent mature trees, which provide plenty of natural shade and give the area a relaxed, bushy feel. It’s a popular spot for families looking for a Playground, open space and access to the river, all just minutes from the city.

The standout feature of the Playground is the impressive treehouse. Built around one of the huge existing trees, it offers loads of climbing opportunities and a sense of adventure for confident kids. Children can climb up via nets and platforms into the tree fork before choosing between different ways down, including a fun spiral slide. It’s a great spot for older toddlers through to primary school-aged kids who enjoy a bit of a challenge.

Families who dislike dealing with sand in shoes and car seats will love that this is a sand-free play space. The surfacing makes it easy for prams and little feet to get around, and there’s still a strong nature-play feel thanks to the use of timber, rocks and greenery. Alongside the treehouse you’ll find balancing and stepping logs, perfect for practising gross motor skills and imaginative play.

There are also embankment slides built into the landscape, which are ideal for younger children who may find them less intimidating than tall standalone slides.

For climbing fans, the metal climbing dome offers another way to burn off energy, while the motorbike rocker adds a traditional Playground favourite for little ones.

A small bucket swing provides a gentler swinging option, which is great for toddlers or children who need more support. The mix of equipment makes the Playground suitable for a range of ages, and the shade from the established trees helps keep the area cooler on hot days.

Banks Reserve is more than just a Playground. Older kids and teens will appreciate the small skate park, which is perfect for scooters, skateboards and bikes.

There is also a multi-use court with a basketball hoop and a netball ring, making it an excellent spot for shooting hoops, casual games and active play. If you have kids of different ages, this means everyone can find something they enjoy within the same reserve.

The riverside location makes Banks Reserve a lovely place for picnics and get-togethers. There’s a generous picnic area with picnic tables, barbecues and a water fountain, so you can easily make a morning or afternoon of it. Bike racks are available too, making it a convenient stop if you’re riding along the river foreshore paths. The wide open grassed areas are perfect for ball games, running around or simply spreading out a picnic rug under the trees.

One of the unique touches at Banks Reserve is the presence of local Aboriginal art and information plaques dotted around the park. These provide a sense of place and an opportunity to talk with kids about the cultural and historical significance of the area. There is also a large amphitheatre, which can be booked through the City of Vincent and is occasionally used for community events and performances. Even when it’s not in use for events, kids often enjoy exploring the steps and open space.

On warm days, the nearby river adds an extra layer of fun. Families often head down to the water’s edge for a paddle, to cool off or to try their luck fishing. Kids will also love spotting tadpoles and watching boats cruise past on the Swan River. As with all natural water play, close supervision is essential, but it’s a lovely way to connect with nature so close to the city.

Practicalities such as toilets, shade and the non-sand surfacing make Banks Reserve a very family-friendly destination, especially for those with prams or kids who use mobility aids. The riverside paths, skate park and courts also mean it works well for families with a wide age range of children. As with many riverside parks in Perth, mosquitoes can be an issue at certain times of year, so it’s wise to pack insect repellent, especially in the warmer months or around dusk.

Whether you’re planning a riverside bike ride with a Playground stop, a relaxed family picnic under the trees, or a play date where kids can climb, explore and shoot some hoops, Banks Reserve in Mount Lawley is a fantastic inner-city option.

Banks Reserve, Mount Lawley

Address: Banks Reserve, Joel Terrace, Mount Lawley WA 6050
Official website: City of Vincent – Banks Reserve

Find more playgrounds in Perth