Make the most of summer with Canberra’s local parks

As the temperature warms up in the capital, you can almost hear the population of Canberra breathe a collective sigh of relief as the sun defrosts a winter that felt like it went on forever. 

Not only does the sun bring with it an unmatched joy that only comes at this time of year, but it also provides the opportunity to get out and about, and make the most of Canberra’s greenspace. 

So, if you need a refresher about outdoor parks near you this summer, here are the best recreational areas in all Canberra districts to make the most of the long-awaited sunshine. 

Inner South – Weston Park

Located in Yarralumla is the widely-known Weston Park, nestled amongst the trees and surrounded by views of Lake Burley Griffin and the Molonglo River. 

The area provides swimming opportunities, and includes cycling tracks, barbecues and shaded table areas, a miniature railway, and a cafe to top it all off. 

Tuggeranong – Pine Island, Namadgi National Park

Who said there were no beaches in Canberra? Pine Island Reserve is located on the banks of the Murrumbidgee River, and it’s Canberra’s closest answer to having a beach day. 

Enjoy picnic tables and electric barbecues with the family, and playgrounds and bike tracks for the kids too. 

Inner North – Haig Park

Located in Turner is the heritage listed Haig Park, a widely-utilised grassed area located right in Canberra’s city centre.

Just a short walk from all your favourite attractions in Braddon, there are also markets held there every Sunday, making the most of everything the area offers. 

Belconnen – Lake Ginninderra District Park

Nothing is better than a summer barbecue, but picture this ー a steak sandwich, camping chair, a cold drink and a sunset over the lake. 

Lake Ginninderra provides multiple lakeside barbecue options, as well as play equipment, bike paths for adults and children, and ample free parking so you can truly relax. 

Woden Valley – Eddison District Park 

Home to the annual ANZAC Day memorial service, Eddison District Park offers a multitude of entertainment possibilities, so far as you can imagine. 

With a nearby skate park, play equipment and fitness stations, bring the whole family and make the most of the barbecue set ups, open space and the beautiful pond that is home to native birds. 

Molonglo Valley and Weston Creek – National Arboretum 

If you’ve ever driven along the Tuggeranong Parkway, it is likely that you would not have forgotten about the expansive, well-planned and beautiful space that is Canberra’s National Arboretum. 

For those interested in plants, the Arboretum is home to 44,000 endangered trees, but for everyone else, it is a perfect place to grab a coffee and make the most of Canberra’s beautiful outdoors and 360 degree views. 

Gungahlin – Yerrabi Pond District Park 

As well as just being a beautiful location, Yerrabi Pond District Park is the perfect place to take the family for an evening walk as the sun goes down, or to take a breath of fresh air after a long day. 

Yerrabi Pond District Park includes a playground with a wheelchair accessible swing set, a large play area and a skate and dirt bike area for kids of all ages.