The Paddocks Reserve is a big hit for active kids, with a playground that packs plenty into one space. There are climbing structures to conquer, slides, swings, a flying fox, sand and water play, plus interactive equipment that adds something a little different. Once the playground has been explored, the surrounding reserve has plenty more room to roam, with open grass, wetlands, walking paths and sporting fields making this a spot where you can easily spend a few hours.
Find it at: Maxwell Road, Para Hills West.
Good for: Toddlers through to primary-aged kids, with a variety of equipment and plenty of space for children to move, explore and play.
Best for: Climbing, slides, flying fox, swings, sand play, water play and interactive play equipment. There is also lots of open space for running, kicking a ball and exploring the surrounding reserve.
Toilets: Yes. Public toilets are located near the playground and car park.
Shade: Some. There are established trees and shaded areas around the reserve, but parts of the playground are exposed, so hats and sunscreen are a good idea on sunny days.
Fenced: No. The playground is open to the surrounding reserve, so younger children will need to be kept an eye on.
Accessible: Yes. The playground includes accessible play equipment and features designed to allow children with different abilities to join in.
Parking: Yes. There is a dedicated car park accessed from Maxwell Road, with plenty of space for visitors.
Cafe or food nearby: There isn't a cafe at the playground, but there are picnic areas and BBQ facilities available, making it easy to bring lunch and stay for a while. The surrounding reserve also has plenty of open space for a family picnic.
With access best via Maxwell Road, there is so much to talk about here its hard to know where to start. We have to start off with the Interactive Play and Sound Arch, which we haven't seen before but was just brilliant. Throw in some sand and water play, 2 MASSIVE climbing structures, a flying fox and plenty of space to run around and play. What a spot!
Don't forget the sporting fields with netball courts, football oval and an uninterrupted lawn expanse with a number of soccer pitches, cricket pitches and nets. Such a fabulous facility for the locals.
