Glenthorne Nature Play Space

Find it at: Majors Road, O’Halloran Hill

Located within Glenthorne National Park-Ityamaiitpinna Yarta, this multi-million dollar nature playground has quickly become a favourite for Adelaide families, and honestly, it’s easy to see why. Opened in 2022, this incredible play space combines adventure, imagination, inclusive design and nature play in one huge family-friendly destination.

What we love most about Glenthorne Nature Play Space is that it truly caters for all ages. While younger kids will adore the swings, sand play and cubby-building opportunities, older kids are absolutely going to love the giant climbing structures, flying foxes and enormous tube slide tower. It’s the kind of playground where you can easily spend hours exploring.

The thoughtfully designed nature play space was created by Adelaide playground specialists Climbing Tree Creations, alongside TCL and Phillips Pilkington Architects, with a strong focus on open-ended adventure play, accessibility and connection with the natural environment.

Throughout the playground you’ll find salvaged timber, rocks, natural creek beds and climbing elements that encourage kids to explore, create and move freely through the space. The towering slide structures were inspired by the hollow red gums found along South Australian river systems, giving the playground a uniquely local feel.

Families will love the wide pram-friendly paths, accessible play features, shaded seating areas, toilets and BBQ facilities, making it an easy spot to settle in for a full morning or afternoon outdoors.

Some of the standout features include:
• Huge tube slide tower
• Flying foxes
• Multiple swings
• Inclusive in-ground roundabout
• Sand and water-style nature play
• Freestyle cubby and teepee building
• Climbing logs and adventure play elements
• Shaded picnic areas and BBQs
• Accessible pathways throughout

We also love that the playground feels inclusive for a wide range of ages and abilities. It’s not often you find a playground that genuinely keeps both toddlers and older kids entertained, but Glenthorne absolutely delivers.

If you’re looking for an Adelaide playground worth the drive, this one should be high on your list. Pack a picnic, bring a change of clothes for the sand play, and prepare to stay longer than expected.

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