Stumbled onto this place completely by accident this weekend, and it’s exactly what you want for a day out with the kids. Putney Park sits right on the Parramatta River, and along the water’s edge there’s a huge stretch of flat open lawn, plus gazebos for BBQs.
Best part, there are several different play zones for kids, a big rope climbing tower, a tall enclosed slide that’s several storeys high, a water play area for younger kids, a smaller slide, and a tidal pool you can actually swim in over summer.
Weather was great this afternoon, and the big lawn had small clusters of people scattered around, looked like a few big family gatherings or friend catch-ups, plus a handful of smaller families with kids, some sunbathing by the water, some fishing. A few groups of kids were running wild through the water play area, while the adults just zoned out in the shade.
If you’re stuck for somewhere to take the kids on the weekend, bring the whole family and a few friends along to this one. Picnic, walk, sit and stare at the water, it’s never crowded, genuinely relaxed, and will keep kids entertained for a whole afternoon.
Free Water Play, Toddler-Friendly
Tucked by the Parramatta River, this free water playground is particularly good for younger kids. Shallow pools, a sand area, climbing frames, all there. Easy way to burn energy on a hot day, while the adults get river breeze and views.
Shallow pools
Two toddler splash pools connected by a pebble creek, water never deeper than 30cm anywhere. Kids can wade in, scoop up little pebbles, and there’s a shade sail overhead so nobody’s getting sunburnt or overheated.
Climbing and slides
Right next to the splash pools there’s a large climbing structure for bigger kids to explore. Further along there’s a tall slide, and over in the sand area there’s a rope climbing tower, climb it and you get a proper view of the river. Once they’re tired, the sand area is right there for building sandcastles.
Two Separate Playgrounds
Beyond the water play, the park has two dedicated playgrounds. The one near the pools has a small slide and tunnel, suited to kids who’ve just started walking. Head about 200 metres toward Pellisier Road and there’s a second playground with bucket swings, a spinner, and a rock-themed play piece, good for anyone from preschool through to early primary school.
Picnic Spots and Facilities
Park benches and natural shade are everywhere, bring a mat and you’ve got an instant picnic spot with river views. There are toilets, open lawn, and even BBQ facilities, so it works well for a bigger family gathering too.
The River Swim Site
If you’re driving, there’s parking on site. Along the Parramatta River here there’s a netted swimming enclosure too, genuinely good atmosphere.
Found this one as a free waterfront spot for the kids in Sydney, and it’s not your average splash park, genuinely great for a relaxed hot-weather morning.
Two shallow splash pools connected by a small creek, safe enough for younger kids to wade in. Bigger kids love the giant slide, with a basic playground attached. Big flat lawn, bring a picnic mat and snacks and just lie back. There’s also a netted swim area by the river if you want to get in the water properly, just check the water quality beforehand.
Compared to the usual crowded splash parks, this one’s noticeably quieter, the river views are relaxing, and you’ve got water play and a picnic spot all in one place.
Putney Park
Pellisier Road, Putney NSW 2112
If you’re exploring more of Sydney during the school holidays, check our NSW school holidays and term dates for 2026 page, or our George Kendall Riverside Park, Bonna Point Reserve, Wollundry Park and Strathfield Park reviews for more Sydney playgrounds worth the trip.