If you’re looking for a family friendly playground in Adelaide’s south where the kids can climb, ride, scoot, play games and burn off some energy, Forsyth Reserve in Hackham is one to add to your list!

Also known locally as Cottage Lane Park, this spacious reserve has long been a favourite with local families, with playground equipment for little ones, room to run around and plenty of activities to keep older kids entertained too.

And there’s even more to explore following the reserve’s upgrade in mid 2026, with a new learn-to-ride bike track, pavement games, sporting facilities and fresh green space now open to the public. It’s a great all-rounder for families who love getting outside, whether you’re planning a quick playground stop or a longer afternoon of outdoor fun.

Find it at: Cottage Lane, Hackham, South Australia.

Good for: Toddlers through to primary-aged kids, with a mix of traditional playground equipment, climbing opportunities and plenty of open space for running around.

Best for: Climbing, sliding, imaginative play, bike riding, scooting and outdoor games. There’s also a skate ramp, beginner-friendly bike jumps and a learn-to-ride track, making it a great spot for kids who love getting around on wheels.

Toilets: Yes. Public toilets are available within the reserve.

Shade: Yes. There are shade rotundas and established trees around the reserve, although some parts of the play area are more exposed, so hats and sunscreen are still a good idea.

Fenced: The playground is not confirmed as fully enclosed, so keep younger children close while they explore the playground and surrounding recreation areas.

Accessible: The reserve offers a range of recreational spaces and facilities. Check with the City of Onkaparinga for specific accessible play equipment and access requirements.

Parking: Yes. There is a car park just off Gates Road, with additional roadside parking along Cottage Lane.

Cafe or food nearby: There are picnic areas, three BBQs and plenty of grassy space to settle in for lunch. Pack a picnic or bring some snacks if you’re planning to make a few hours of it!

Forsyth Reserve is one of those parks where there’s a little something for everyone. The playground features a toddler slide, little rocker beetles and a boat, along with climbing frames and walls for kids who like a bit more of a challenge.

If your kids love riding, Forsyth Reserve is definitely worth a visit.

The reserve’s beginner-friendly bike jumps are ideal for young riders wanting to practise their skills, while the nearby skate ramp gives older kids another place to get moving.

There’s also a learn-to-ride bike track, designed to help little riders build confidence while learning about road rules. With roundabouts, road signs, rumble strips and speed humps, kids can practise their riding skills in a fun environment.

It’s a particularly handy feature for families with children who are just starting to ride independently or who need a little more practice before hitting the streets and shared paths.

There are pavement games including four square, hopscotch, a circular maze, an obstacle course, snakes and ladders, and twister. These are a fun way to get kids moving, challenge their coordination and enjoy some friendly competition.

For families who enjoy kicking a ball around, the reserve also has an irrigated grassed area for informal games, complete with futsal goals.

The upgraded sporting facilities include courts and markings for activities such as tennis, netball, pickleball and Hot Shots junior tennis, with additional recreation opportunities throughout the reserve.

It’s a great mix of activities for families with children of different ages, especially if you’ve got one child who wants to play on the playground and another who’s keen to get involved in a game.

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