Parks Near Me

Best Picnic Spots in Adelaide for Families & Groups

Adelaide's Mediterranean climate and abundance of green spaces make it a picnicker's paradise. From the elegant botanic gardens in the city centre to bushland reserves in the Adelaide Hills, there's a perfect spot for every occasion - whether you're planning a romantic outing, family gathering, or casual weekend lunch with friends.

If you're searching for the best picnic spots Adelaide has to offer, here's your ultimate guide to the top parks and reserves.

Why Adelaide is Perfect for Picnics

Adelaide's warm, dry summers and mild winters make outdoor dining enjoyable year-round. The city is renowned for its parklands that surround the CBD, while the nearby Adelaide Hills offer cooler escapes with scenic views. Many parks feature free BBQs, picnic tables, playgrounds, and parking, making them ideal for extended outings. Best of all, most parks have free entry, so all you need is good food and great company.

Top 10 Picnic Spots in Adelaide

1. Adelaide Botanic Garden

  • Location: North Terrace, Adelaide SA 5000
  • Why it's special: Historic 50-hectare garden with themed sections, glasshouses, and wetlands.
  • Features: Shaded lawns, picnic benches, free entry, café nearby, no BBQs.

Perfect for a peaceful picnic under century-old trees. Explore the Palm House, Japanese Garden, and seasonal displays of roses and water lilies.

2. Belair National Park

  • Location: Upper Sturt Road, Glenalta SA 5052
  • Why it's special: South Australia's first national park with extensive facilities and native wildlife.
  • Features: Multiple picnic areas, BBQs, playground, walking trails, tennis courts.

A classic family destination. Enjoy a BBQ lunch at Playford Lake or the Pines picnic area, then explore walking trails where kangaroos and koalas are commonly spotted. Note: Vehicle entry fee applies.

3. Morialta Conservation Park

  • Location: Stradbroke Road, Rostrevor SA 5073
  • Why it's special: Spectacular waterfalls, gorge scenery, and Adelaide's largest nature playground.
  • Features: Picnic shelters, BBQs, Mukanthi Nature Playground, hiking trails, free entry.

Combine a picnic with adventure. The nature playground will keep kids entertained for hours, while the walk to First Falls offers scenic rewards for all ages.

4. Mount Lofty Botanic Garden

  • Location: 16 Lampert Rd, Crafers SA 5152
  • Why it's special: Cool-climate garden with rhododendrons, camellias, and stunning autumn colours.
  • Features: Shaded areas, picnic tables, walking trails, free entry.

A refreshing retreat on hot days. The cool mountain air and themed gardens create a tranquil picnic setting. Especially beautiful in spring and autumn.

5. Para Wirra Conservation Park

  • Location: Humbug Scrub Rd, One Tree Hill SA 5114
  • Why it's special: Lakeside setting with abundant wildlife including kangaroos and emus.
  • Features: BBQs, picnic tables, nature play space, walking trails.

Ideal for nature lovers. The lake picnic area provides a peaceful backdrop, and wildlife encounters are almost guaranteed. Great for bushwalking too.

6. Cleland National Park

  • Location: Mount Lofty Summit Rd, Crafers SA 5152
  • Why it's special: Home to Cleland Wildlife Park and Mount Lofty Summit lookout.
  • Features: Picnic areas, BBQs, extensive trail network, wildlife encounters.

Visit Cleland Wildlife Park (entry fee) to get up close with native animals, then enjoy a picnic with panoramic views from Mount Lofty Summit.

7. Wittunga Botanic Garden

  • Location: Shepherds Hill Rd, Blackwood SA 5051
  • Why it's special: Charming garden featuring South African and Australian native plants.
  • Features: Shaded lawns, picnic tables, lakes, free entry, family-friendly.

A hidden gem in the southern suburbs. The themed garden beds and tranquil lake create an intimate picnic atmosphere.

8. Brownhill Creek Recreation Park

Popular for its relaxed atmosphere and creek-side picnic spots. Walk the valley trails after your meal.

9. Glenthorne National Park

  • Location: Majors Rd, O’Halloran Hill SA 5158
  • Why it's special: New metropolitan park combining wetlands, trails, and nature play.
  • Features: Playground, picnic tables, walking trails, free entry.

A developing park with growing facilities. Enjoy wetland views and nature-based activities in a community-focused environment.

10. Sturt Gorge Recreation Park

Best visited after rainfall when the waterfalls flow. The gorge scenery provides a spectacular backdrop for adventurous picnics.

Tips for Planning the Perfect Adelaide Picnic

  • Check the weather: Adelaide summers can be hot - choose shaded spots or visit cooler hills locations.
  • Arrive early: Popular parks like Belair and Morialta fill up on weekends and public holidays.
  • Bring essentials: Water, sunscreen, and hats are must-haves, especially in summer.
  • Respect nature: Take all rubbish home and stay on designated paths to protect native flora and fauna.
  • Check fire danger: BBQs may be prohibited on Total Fire Ban days - always check current restrictions.

Adelaide Hills Picnic Spots

For cooler temperatures and mountain scenery, the Adelaide Hills offer excellent picnic locations:

  • Mount Lofty Botanic Garden - cool-climate plants and autumn colours.
  • Belair National Park - heritage park with extensive facilities.
  • Cleland National Park - wildlife encounters and summit views.
  • Morialta Conservation Park - gorge waterfalls and nature playground.

Family-Friendly Picnic Parks

Looking for parks with playgrounds and family facilities? These Adelaide spots are perfect:

  • Morialta Conservation Park - Mukanthi Nature Playground (Adelaide's largest).
  • Belair National Park - Adventure playground and open lawns for games.
  • Para Wirra Conservation Park - Nature play space and wildlife spotting.
  • Glenthorne National Park - Growing facilities for families.

Final Thoughts

From city-centre botanical gardens to bushland gorges in the Adelaide Hills, South Australia's capital offers diverse picnic opportunities for every preference. Whether you prefer manicured lawns and heritage architecture or rugged nature with wildlife encounters, Adelaide's parks deliver memorable outdoor experiences.

Pack your basket, gather your loved ones, and explore the many picnic spots Adelaide has waiting for you this season.