Ask any parent where summer is spent and the answer is rarely at home. It is at the park, again, and again, and again. Luckily, for families in the Queanbeyan-Palerang region, we are spoiled for choice when it comes to parks and playgrounds. 

Below are our top places for a morning or afternoon out, with flexibility to plan around weather, naps, downtime and mealtimes. They are ranked by distance from Canberra and Queanbeyan and all offer water play to cool down on warm days. 

1. Queen Elizabeth II Park, Queanbeyan

• Shaded playground
• Wet play area suitable for younger children
• Large oval for games and picnics
• Walking and cycling pathways
• BBQ and shaded seating and picnic areas and toilets
• Street parking only

No kid loves to be dragged along a shopping or errands trip and yet it must be done! They’ll tolerate it better if they know there is a chance to play afterwards. This is why Queen Elizabeth II Park, located centrally in Queanbeyan, is such a convenient stop. Walking and cycling paths mean families can reach the park by a short stroll or ride along the river precinct. Once here, younger children will love the shaded playground and gentle wet play zone while older children can make use of the wide open oval for ball games and running space.

Queen Elizabeth 2 Park – top left, Queanbeyan and South Jerrabomberra Town Park, Tralee – bottom left and right (Images courtesy of Village Building Co.)

2. South Jerrabomberra Town Park, Tralee

• The region’s largest free splash pad
• All-abilities playground with climbing structures and shaded areas
• Learn-to-ride bike loop with realistic traffic lights and signage
• Picnic shelters, BBQs, toilets and shaded seating
• Open green spaces and half basketball court
• On-site and street parking available

Newly opened in November 2025, this park has plenty to boast about, including the region’s largest free splash pad and an impressive learn-to-ride bike track. There’s so much to do here that you can easily entertain the kids for a half-day and the shade, amenities and open spaces allow for relaxed supervision so you can catch your breath.

This park is perfect for families with young children seeking a safe, inclusive and engaging outdoor experience as well as a controlled place to practise bike and scooter skills. Older children will love the half basketball court or even the outdoor gym, before cooling off in the open splash areas.

Are there four-legged friends in your family too? South Jerrabomberra Dog Park is nearby with separate zones for small and large dogs, open grassed areas, water stations, dog agility zones, a bone-shaped walking track, and BBQ areas with shaded seating.

3. Bungendore Park, Bungendore

• Large rural-themed adventure playground with music play, nature play and imaginative areas
• Climbing and sliding area, water play area and sand play area
• Flying fox, climbing nets and swings
• Mini bike track 
• BBQs and shelters
• Wheelchair accessible spinners
• Plenty of street parking for all types of vehicles

The unique park is a worthwhile stop for families, with room for extended play or a short break during a day trip. It is designed to help children burn off energy while also sparking imagination and creativity.

Another wonderful thing about this park is that it is suited to all ages so that you can supervise everyone in the one place: younger children might gravitate toward lower climbing structures and slides, while older children challenge themselves on the higher platforms and nets. The sensory options are also perfect for toddlers.

Being situated close to Bungendore’s cafes and shops means that a cold refreshment is just a stroll away.

Got a couple of groms in the family? Bungendore Skatepark is a short drive away, with a half basketball court, BBQ facilities and toilets.

Ryrie Park, Braidwood – left, Googong Foreshore – top right, The Googong Cascades – bottom right

4. Ryrie Park, Braidwood

• All-age and all-abilities playground with basket swing, accessible carousel, double flying fox with an inclusive seat and the signature windmill combination climber
• Water play equipment and Braidwood pool is also located in Ryrie Park
• Picnic tables and seating
• Walking and cycling pathways
• Changing Places toilet; larger-than-standard accessible toilets
• Plenty of street parking for all types of vehicles

It isn’t summer in the region without a trip to the coast and a rest stop in Braidwood. Ryrie Park’s central position in the historic township allows families to pair playtime with browsing local boutiques, bakeries and heritage streetscapes.

The basket swing is a standout for younger children, while older children can get an adrenaline rush on the double flying fox. Many will also appreciate the option of a proper swim at the public pool. Don’t forget to stretch your legs on the walking and cycling paths before continuing your road trip. Dogs are welcome here too, so long as they are kept on a lead.

The park also features a Changing Places toilet, offering a larger, fully accessible facility for people with a disability and high support needs. Access is via the MLAK key system. Keys are available for purchase through the MLAK website.

BONUS: Googong Foreshores

• Designated swimming area downstream of the dam wall
• Scenic water views perfect for easy nature exploration
• Opportunities for canoeing, kayaking and wildlife watching
• Access to short family-friendly walking trails including London Bridge Arch
• BBQ and picnic facilities and toilets at both northern and southern ends
• Multiple car parks available

Not a park but a must-do for families ready for a longer and more adventurous outing! Googong Foreshores is about a 30-minute drive from Canberra (around 15 minutes from Queanbeyan) and a refreshing escape beyond urban playgrounds. 

There are plenty of walking and biking trails here to explore. Of note is the London Bridge walk at the southern end; this is an easy and family-friendly loop that gives you great views of the 20,000-year old limestone arch.

Please note that swimming is not permitted in the dam, which is a drinking water catchment. Swimming is only permitted downstream the Queanbeyan River below the dam wall.

PLANNING TIPS FOR A GREAT SUMMER OUTING

• When visiting natural swimming spots like Googong Foreshores, pay attention to warnings: water levels, currents, submerged rocks and slippery surfaces can be hazardous.
• All locations above except for Googong Foreshores have shops very close by but please be prepared and bring sun protection, water and snacks. All locations offer shade, picnic spots or BBQs, but summer heat can still sneak up fast.
• On hot days, arriving early or later in the afternoon can help avoid crowds and midday heat.

Written by Thuc Do for Visit Queanbeyan-Palerang.