Ernest Johnson Reserve, South Perth

Ernest Johnson Reserve in South Perth is a welcoming community space with a great little Playground, wide open ovals and facilities that make it easy to spend a few relaxed hours with the family. Located on Pilgrim Street, it’s set back from busy roads and has its own car park, so access is straightforward, even with prams and younger kids in tow.

The Playground is spread across several smaller play zones rather than one big structure, which helps to keep different ages occupied without it feeling overcrowded. Each section has benches or seating close by, making it easy for parents and carers to supervise without hovering right on top of the action. The reserve also includes dog-friendly areas with a drinking fountain and dog bowl, though dogs must remain outside the formal Playground spaces.

One of the first things you’ll notice is the large exercise frame and pieces of outdoor fitness equipment dotted around the reserve. The main exercise frame comes with picture instructions, but it also doubles as an extra climbing challenge for adventurous kids. It’s a nice touch for families who want to squeeze in a bit of movement themselves while the children play.

At one end of the Playground, there’s a dedicated climbing area with a metal climbing frame and rope structures that include hammocks and small seats. This section is a mix of soft fall and wood chips underfoot, providing a bit of cushioning. There isn’t any built-in shade or shade sails here, so it can get hot in the middle of the day; hats, sunscreen and maybe shorter play bursts work best in this part of the park.

Close by, you’ll find BBQs and picnic benches, plus big stretches of lawn ideal for picnics, kicking a ball or letting the kids run off steam. With the two nearby ovals, Ernest Johnson Reserve is also a handy spot to bring along a football, cricket set or frisbee for some extra family fun.

A lovely nature play zone sits a little further along. This area has a wood chip base and is shaded by established trees, making it one of the most comfortable spots to hang out on warmer days. Children can explore large logs and rocks for climbing and balancing, as well as another climbing frame that blends into the natural style of the space.

A birds nest swing over sand sits to one side, always a popular choice for kids who like to swing together. It’s a peaceful corner of the reserve, and parents can relax under the trees while still keeping a clear eye on play.

Across the main pathway is another cluster of more traditional play equipment, better suited to younger and early primary-aged children. Here you’ll find a small slide, a climbing wall, a see-saw and a frame that can be climbed or spun around, all set over sand. Shade is more limited in this section as well, so it’s worth timing visits for early morning or late afternoon if you’re visiting in the height of summer.

At the far end, another birds nest swing sits over a soft fall surface, offering a smoother, bump-free ride for littler ones or those who prefer a softer base.

Between the varied play zones, the fitness equipment, the grassy ovals and picnic facilities, Ernest Johnson Reserve offers plenty to keep kids busy and active. Families can easily turn a quick stop into a longer outing by bringing a picnic, balls or scooters. With its mix of nature play and more traditional equipment, it’s a solid all-round park choice for families in and around South Perth.

Ernest Johnson Reserve

Address: Pilgrim Street, South Perth, WA 6151