Things to do in Salisbury, South Australia: The Best Nature & Parks

Reviewed By branham2016 - Adelaide, Australia

In 1982, an adventure playground was established at St Kilda, a small northern community about 22kms north of Adelaide’s CBD. Situated on the edge of mangrove swamps, it became a very popular outing for families. After a mammoth refurbishment opened in 2016, the St Kilda Adventure Playground is more spectacular and is definitely setup for family groups. With access from the Northern Expressway, the playground is easily reachable. Parking is in a number of smaller adjacent parks that run along the land side of the playground. My first impression was “Wow!” The sheer size and variety of activities combined with BBQ and seating areas make this a destination attraction. There are many attractions - a huge castle with slides and a draw bridge, a bouncy boomerang, flying fox, pirate ship, a large Volcano with multiple slides, a basketball court, swings and more. Nearly missed to mention the Yellow Submarine. The paths, of natural materials, wind around the playground interconnecting all available activities. The higher activities, the castle and the volcano slides, provide magnificent views of the adjacent mangroves and across the waters to Torrens Island and beyond. Whether the wish is to climb, jump, fly, slide, spin around or rock, there is an activity that is suited and in some cases enables combinations. The day I was there, the flying fox appeared to the favourite of the day! It was enjoyable strolling through the park seeing families enjoying the day out after playground and park COVID19 restrictions had been lifted. Social distancing was not an issue due to the large site with activities well-spaced. Toilet facilities are next to the front car parking area. Admission is free and the park is a Dog Free Zone, although dog owners can use the nearby lawned areas and foreshore. Return? Probably not to the playground but to the adjacent Mangrove Trail- Yes!.