Last updated: April 2026 · 20 parks listed

Best BBQ and Picnic Parks in The Hills District (Updated April 2026)

The Hills District has dozens of parks with electric BBQ facilities suitable for family picnics and group gatherings. Top choices include parks with covered shelters, multiple electric BBQ units, picnic tables, and close parking. All parks below have confirmed BBQ facilities from council or visitor sources.

What to look for

Planning a family BBQ or picnic in The Hills District? The key deal-breakers are electric BBQs (not charcoal-only), a covered shelter for shade, toilet access, and nearby parking.

Comparison table — Best BBQ and Picnic Parks in The Hills District

Park	Suburb	Electric BBQ	Picnic shelter	Toilets	Parking	Playground	Details
Lessing Park	Asquith	✓	✓	✓	✓	✓	View →
Binalong Park	Baulkham Hills	✓	✓	✓	✓	✓	View →
Booth Park	Beecroft	✓	✓	✓	✓	?	View →
Apex Park	Castle Hill	✓	✓	✓	✓	✓	View →
Castle Hill Heritage Park	Castle Hill	✓	✓	✓	✓	✓	View →
Coolong Reserve	Castle Hill	✓	✓	✓	✓	✓	View →
Erlestoke Park	Castle Hill	✓	✓	✓	✓	✓	View →
Fred Caterson Reserve	Castle Hill	✓	✓	✓	✓	✓	View →
Greenup Park	Castle Hill	✓	✓	✓	✓	✓	View →
Edward Bennett Oval	Cherrybrook	✓	✓	✓	✓	✓	View →
Greenway Park	Cherrybrook	✓	✓	✓	✓	✓	View →
Fagan Park	Galston	✓	✓	✓	✓	✓	View →
Galston Recreation Reserve	Galston	✓	✓	✓	✓	✓	View →
Hayes Park	Galston	✓	✓	✓	✓	✓	View →
Hornsby Park	Hornsby	✓	✓	✓	✓	✓	View →
Hornsby Park	Hornsby	✓	✓	✓	✓	✓	View →
James Park	Hornsby	✓	✓	✓	✓	✓	View →
Old Mans Valley Park (proposed)	Hornsby	✓	✓	✓	✓	?	View →
Storey Park	Hornsby	✓	✓	✓	✓	✓	View →
Arnold Avenue Reserve	Kellyville	✓	✓	✓	✓	✓	View →

Park profiles — Best BBQ and Picnic Parks in The Hills District

Lessing Park

📍 Asquith, NSW 2077

Full details →

Lessing Park is a fully fenced, family-friendly playground in Asquith featuring diverse play equipment, picnic and barbecue facilities, and an off-leash dog area where dogs can run and socialise freely in a safe environment.

Playground and Play Equipment at Lessing Park

Lessing Park has a variety of play structures designed for children of different ages. The playground at Lessing Park features swings, slides, and a climbing wall. Lessing Park's entire play area is fully fenced, providing a safe environment where children can play without supervision concerns. The park's play equipment incorporates natural wooden designs, which visitors have praised for aesthetic appeal and durability. Lessing Park's playground received upgrades completed in 2018, introducing new equipment and improved facilities that the community has responded to positively. The open grassy areas at Lessing Park also accommodate scooter riding and casual recreational activities, making the park versatile for families with children of varying interests and ages.

Off-Leash Dog Area at Lessing Park

Lessing Park has an off-leash area where dogs can run and play freely in a designated safe space. The off-leash dog area at Lessing Park provides an excellent opportunity for pets to socialise and exercise without restriction. Dog owners visiting Lessing Park should check local guidelines for specific leash laws and any additional rules that may apply to the off-leash area. Lessing Park's open spaces and fenced boundaries create a secure environment for dogs to enjoy recreational activities. The park's facilities make Lessing Park an attractive destination for pet owners in the Asquith area seeking spaces for their dogs to exercise and interact with other animals.

Off-leash dogsFamily picnicsYoung childrenWeekend BBQsDog socialisationPlay equipmentShaded gatheringsTrain commuters

🐕 Off-leash area🛝 Playground🔥 BBQ🚻 Toilets🅿️ Parking🚶 Paths

Park Profile

Based on confirmed facilities data

Scores highest for: Dog Friendly · Family & Kids · Accessibility · Facilities

Binalong Park

📍 Baulkham Hills, NSW 2153

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Binalong Park is a multi-use recreational facility in Old Toongabbie near Baulkham Hills offering four seasonal sports fields, tennis courts, basketball, netball courts, and a fenced playground for children aged 0–12, making it a versatile community hub for families and sports enthusiasts.

Playground and Recreation for Children

Binalong Park has a fenced and shaded playground designed for children aged 0 to 12 years. The playground features a slide, swings, balancing posts, a bridge, and a seesaw, providing skill-based and sensory play opportunities. Binalong Park's play equipment offers well-maintained facilities suitable for young families. The playground area is sheltered, making it accessible in various weather conditions. Visitors have noted that Binalong Park's playground is always well-maintained, creating a safe and engaging environment for children to develop motor skills and enjoy outdoor recreation.

Sports Facilities and Courts

Binalong Park offers extensive sports facilities catering to various activities throughout the year. The park has four sports fields utilized for soccer during winter months and cricket in summer, with cricket pitches on fields 1 and 4 covered during winter. Binalong Park features two hard-surface tennis courts that also accommodate four pickleball courts (players must bring their own nets). Additionally, Binalong Park has basketball courts, netball courts, and two cricket nets available for practice sessions. Tennis court bookings require at least 30 minutes advance notice, with PIN-activated access granted 15 minutes before and expiring 15 minutes after scheduled times.

Family picnicsChildren's playgroundTennis and netballCricket and soccerWeekend gatheringsDog walking (on-leash)Community sportsGroup events

🛝 Playground🔥 BBQ🚻 Toilets🅿️ Parking🏅 Sports

Park Profile

Based on confirmed facilities data

Scores highest for: Family & Kids · Accessibility · Facilities

Booth Park

📍 Beecroft, NSW 2119

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Booth Park is a serene 2.5-acre urban park in Beecroft, NSW, offering well-maintained walking paths, a cricket field, and peaceful green spaces. Dogs must remain leashed, and the park provides essential amenities including restrooms for visitors seeking a quiet recreational escape.

Walking Paths and Recreation

Booth Park has well-maintained paths ideal for walking and running. The paths at Booth Park feature pleasant surroundings with lush greenery and natural scenery. Booth Park offers a peaceful ambiance suitable for leisurely walks and casual strolls. Some areas of paths at Booth Park may include natural surfaces or slight inclines, so comfortable walking shoes are recommended. Booth Park provides benches and rest areas along the paths. The park's 2.5-acre setting at Booth Park creates a rejuvenating environment for visitors seeking a tranquil escape from urban life.

Dog Policy at Booth Park

Dogs at Booth Park must be kept on a leash at all times. Booth Park is not designated as an off-leash dog area by The Hills Shire Council. Dogs are prohibited from areas within 10 meters of children's playground equipment at Booth Park. Dogs are also restricted from food preparation areas such as public barbecues at Booth Park. The Hills Shire Council maintains specific designated off-leash areas elsewhere, including Balcombe Heights Reserve, Bernie Mullane Sports Complex, and Coolong Reserve. For comprehensive dog policy details, visit The Hills Shire Council's official website.

Peaceful walksFamily picnicsCricket enthusiastsCasual outdoor activitiesLeashed dog walksQuiet relaxationOutdoor dining

🔥 BBQ🚻 Toilets🅿️ Parking🚶 Paths🏅 Sports

Park Profile

Based on confirmed facilities data

Scores highest for: Sports & Active · Accessibility · Facilities

Apex Park

📍 Castle Hill, NSW 2154

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Apex Park is a 1.2-acre public park in Castle Hill, NSW, ideal for walking and running enthusiasts. The park features well-maintained paths through lush greenery, a playground for children, BBQ facilities, and picnic areas, making it a serene destination for outdoor recreation and family gatherings.

Dog Policy at Apex Park

Apex Park requires all dogs to remain on-leash at all times. Apex Park does not have a designated off-leash dog area. Dogs are permitted at Apex Park under the condition that they stay leashed throughout the visit. For off-leash exercise opportunities, nearby Coolong Reserve on Coolong Street in Castle Hill offers a fenced off-leash area where dogs can run freely under supervision. All dogs in off-leash areas must be supervised by a competent person over 16 years of age who can control them by voice command and is responsible for removing dog waste. Restricted or dangerous breeds are not permitted in off-leash areas.

Playground and Family Facilities at Apex Park

Apex Park features playground facilities with modern play equipment suitable for children of various ages. Apex Park includes BBQ areas where families can prepare meals during gatherings. Apex Park provides picnic areas with tables and sheltered spots for family outings. Apex Park has restroom facilities; however, some visitors have noted these may be locked during certain hours. Apex Park spans approximately 1.2 acres, offering open spaces ideal for children to play and families to relax. The tranquil atmosphere and various amenities make Apex Park a pleasant destination for family recreational activities.

Walking and runningFamily picnicsChildren's playLeashed dogsCasual outdoor recreationWeekend gatherings

🛝 Playground🔥 BBQ🚻 Toilets🅿️ Parking🚶 Paths

Park Profile

Based on confirmed facilities data

Scores highest for: Family & Kids · Accessibility · Facilities

Castle Hill Heritage Park

📍 Castle Hill, NSW 2154

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Castle Hill Heritage Park is a 20-hectare heritage site in Castle Hill NSW featuring rolling landscaped hills, remnant Blue Gum forest, and concrete walking tracks with historical interpretative signage. The park's standout feature is its rich colonial history, including its origins as a convict farm established in 1801 and its role in the 1804 Castle Hill Rebellion.

Playground and Family Facilities at Castle Hill Heritage Park

Castle Hill Heritage Park has a well-equipped playground upgraded in 2018. The playground features equipment including a flying fox, swings, balance beams, water pump, nest swing, tube slide, spring rocker, and carousel, all suitable for young children. Castle Hill Heritage Park provides shaded picnic tables and BBQ facilities for family gatherings and outdoor meals. The park includes public toilets conveniently located near the playground and picnic areas. Castle Hill Heritage Park's family-friendly environment makes it ideal for school holidays, birthday parties, and weekend outings with children of various ages.

Walking Tracks and Historical Features at Castle Hill Heritage Park

Castle Hill Heritage Park contains several concrete walking tracks that meander through its 20-hectare landscape. The park's walking paths feature educational interpretative signage narrating the site's rich history from its use by the Dharug people, to its establishment as a convict farm in 1801, to the 1804 Castle Hill Rebellion. Castle Hill Heritage Park's concrete pathways are suitable for leisurely strolls and accessible for people with disabilities and stroller users. The majority of Castle Hill Heritage Park's reserve offers wheelchair accessibility, allowing all visitors to explore the rolling landscaped hills and remnant Blue Gum forest.

Family picnicsKids playgroundWalking trailsHistorical learningWheelchair accessibilityOutdoor dining and BBQsCasual strollsSchool excursions

🛝 Playground🔥 BBQ🚻 Toilets🅿️ Parking🚶 Paths

Park Profile

Based on confirmed facilities data

Scores highest for: Family & Kids · Accessibility · Facilities

Coolong Reserve

📍 Castle Hill, NSW 2154

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Coolong Reserve is a family-friendly park in Castle Hill, NSW, featuring a fully fenced off-leash dog area with agility equipment, alongside a playground, learn-to-ride bike track, netball courts, and picnic facilities.

Off-Leash Dog Area at Coolong Reserve

Coolong Reserve has a fully fenced off-leash dog area providing a safe environment for dogs to exercise and socialize. The off-leash area includes agility equipment such as ramps and weave poles to engage dogs. Coolong Reserve's dog park features seating areas, water stations, and waste disposal bins with dog waste bags. Dog owners must supervise their dogs at all times, ensure voice control, remove waste, limit supervision to four dogs maximum, and avoid bringing restricted or dangerous breed dogs. Outside the designated fenced area, dogs must remain leashed throughout Coolong Reserve and all public spaces within the park.

Playground and Learn-to-Ride Bike Track

Coolong Reserve features a well-equipped playground suitable for children of various ages, with swings, climbing frames, and slides. Adjacent to the playground, Coolong Reserve includes a learn-to-ride bike track designed to teach children road safety in a controlled environment. The learn-to-ride track at Coolong Reserve incorporates realistic features including pedestrian crossings, stop signs, and roundabouts. This facility provides young riders with practical experience navigating road safety rules without traffic hazards, making Coolong Reserve an excellent destination for developing cycling skills and safety awareness in children.

Off-leash dogsYoung childrenFamily picnicsLearning to ride bikesNetball playersAccessible recreationGroup gatheringsWeekend BBQ

🐕 Off-leash area🛝 Playground🔥 BBQ🚻 Toilets🅿️ Parking🚶 Paths🏅 Sports

Park Profile

Based on confirmed facilities data

Scores highest for: Dog Friendly · Family & Kids · Sports & Active · Accessibility · Facilities

Erlestoke Park

📍 Castle Hill, NSW 2154

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Erlestoke Park in Castle Hill, NSW 2154 is a family-friendly recreation area featuring a learn-to-ride bike track, flying fox, multi-purpose sports court, and playground equipment. The park underwent major upgrades completed in July 2023, enhancing accessibility and facilities for all visitors.

Playground and Bike Track

Erlestoke Park features play equipment designed for toddlers and pre-schoolers, making it ideal for younger children. Erlestoke Park includes a learn-to-ride bike track supporting children developing cycling skills. Erlestoke Park offers a flying fox attraction for active play. The playground at Erlestoke Park underwent upgrades completed in July 2023, enhancing equipment quality and safety standards. Erlestoke Park provides shaded areas adjacent to play zones, offering parents comfortable supervision spots during warmer months.

Sports Facilities and BBQ Areas

Erlestoke Park contains a multi-purpose sports court accommodating various recreational activities. Erlestoke Park provides BBQ facilities for family gatherings and community events. Erlestoke Park offers sheltered picnic tables enabling outdoor dining and socialising. Erlestoke Park includes fitness equipment available for public use. The park at Erlestoke Park supports both structured sports and casual recreation, with sufficient space for picnics and celebrations.

Young childrenLearn-to-ride bike trainingFamily picnicsBBQ gatheringsToddler playFitness activitiesCommunity eventsShaded relaxation

🛝 Playground🔥 BBQ🚻 Toilets🅿️ Parking🏅 Sports

Park Profile

Based on confirmed facilities data

Scores highest for: Family & Kids · Accessibility · Facilities

Fred Caterson Reserve

📍 Castle Hill, NSW 2154

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Fred Caterson Reserve is a comprehensive 58-hectare recreational facility in Castle Hill, NSW, featuring five soccer fields convertible to three cricket fields, making it the region's premier sports hub. The reserve offers extensive facilities including tennis courts, a basketball stadium, BMX track, and multiple walking trails.

Sports Facilities at Fred Caterson Reserve

Fred Caterson Reserve has five soccer fields that convert into three cricket fields to support multiple sports. The reserve features four-lane synthetic cricket practice nets adjacent to Field 4. Fred Caterson Reserve contains a dedicated baseball field for games and practice sessions. The Castle Hill Tennis Academy operates ten synthetic grass courts within the reserve boundaries. Fred Caterson Reserve houses The Hills Basketball Centre with four full-sized courts and tiered seating for over 1,000 spectators. The reserve includes a BMX track for cycling enthusiasts and a remote control car track. Fred Caterson Reserve supports both competitive and recreational sports programming across these diverse facilities.

Walking and Cycling Tracks at Fred Caterson Reserve

Fred Caterson Reserve offers three notable walking trails with varying difficulty levels. The Castle Hill Trail spans 6.3 kilometers (easy difficulty) combining fire trails, rocky bush tracks, and sections through shaded gullies abundant with birdlife. Fred Caterson Reserve features the Geebung Walk, a 3.4-kilometer easy walk meandering through parklands and bushland sections. The Knightsbridge Circuit provides a 4.9-kilometer moderate trail exploring bushland corridors between Castle Hill and Glenhaven, passing through ferny gullies and wildflowers. Fred Caterson Reserve has an extensive cycleway network alongside concrete pathways and bush tracks suitable for walking, running, and cycling activities.

Competitive sports teamsFamily picnicsWalking and cycling trailsTennis playersBasketball matchesJunior playground visitsDog walks (on-leash)Community sports events

🛝 Playground🔥 BBQ🚻 Toilets🅿️ Parking🚶 Paths🏅 Sports

Park Profile

Based on confirmed facilities data

Scores highest for: Family & Kids · Sports & Active · Accessibility · Facilities

Greenup Park

📍 Castle Hill, NSW 2154

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Greenup Park in Castle Hill, NSW 2154 is a multi-purpose recreational facility featuring a sports field with synthetic cricket pitch, playground for children aged 10–14, and bushcare conservation activities in a Sydney Turpentine Ironbark Forest setting.

Sports Facilities at Greenup Park

Greenup Park has a single sports field equipped with a synthetic cricket pitch at its center. The field has lighting installed for evening training sessions. Greenup Park provides change rooms for visitors using the sports facilities. The park includes a kiosk for convenience. Greenup Park's sports field is available for booking through The Hills Shire Council. To reserve the field, you can contact the council at 1300 426 654 (1300 4 BOOKING) or email venues@thehills.nsw.gov.au during business hours. The illuminated pitch makes Greenup Park suitable for both daytime and evening cricket training and matches.

Playground and Recreation at Greenup Park

Greenup Park features a playground designed specifically for children aged 10 to 14 years. The playground provides an open space where kids can play and enjoy outdoor activities. Greenup Park's quiet location adds to its appeal as a family-friendly destination. Visitors have noted that Greenup Park offers plenty of open space suitable for children's recreation. The park combines its playground facilities with peaceful surroundings, making it an ideal spot for families seeking a relaxing outdoor experience away from busy urban areas.

Family picnicsKids playgroundCricket trainingBBQ gatheringsBushcare volunteeringDog walking (on-leash)Quiet outdoor relaxation

🛝 Playground🔥 BBQ🚻 Toilets🅿️ Parking🏅 Sports

Park Profile

Based on confirmed facilities data

Scores highest for: Family & Kids · Accessibility · Facilities

#10

Edward Bennett Oval

📍 Cherrybrook, NSW 2126

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Edward Bennett Oval is a community sports park in Cherrybrook, NSW managed by Hornsby Shire Council. The park features a playing field for cricket and soccer, a playground with a six-meter climbing net tower and bike track, electric BBQs, and picnic facilities. Edward Bennett Oval serves local sports clubs and families.

Playground and Bike Track

Edward Bennett Oval has a dedicated playground area featuring a six-meter-high climbing net tower and a bike track for children. Edward Bennett Oval includes picnic tables and shaded areas throughout the park, making it suitable for families. Edward Bennett Oval provides restroom facilities for visitors. The park is undergoing upgrades that include playground enhancements as part of Hornsby Shire Council's Landscape Masterplan, which will expand recreational offerings for children and improve overall amenity.

Sports Fields and BBQ Facilities

Edward Bennett Oval has a playing field that supports cricket and soccer activities, regularly used by local sports clubs including West Pennant Hills Cherrybrook Cricket Club. Edward Bennett Oval features electric BBQs available for community use, making the park ideal for group gatherings and weekend events. Edward Bennett Oval provides picnic facilities and shaded seating throughout the grounds. The park's sports field accommodates training sessions and community sporting activities, with planned upgrades including fitness stations and improved landscaping.

Family picnicsKids playgroundSports trainingCommunity BBQsWeekend outingsLeashed dog walks

🛝 Playground🔥 BBQ🚻 Toilets🅿️ Parking🚶 Paths🏅 Sports

Park Profile

Based on confirmed facilities data

Scores highest for: Family & Kids · Sports & Active · Accessibility · Facilities

#11

Greenway Park

📍 Cherrybrook, NSW 2126

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Greenway Park is a multifaceted community space in Cherrybrook, NSW, featuring an off-leash dog park with separate enclosures for small and large dogs, alongside sports facilities, playgrounds, and walking trails. The park's standout feature is its dual-enclosure off-leash dog area with agility equipment.

Off-Leash Dog Area at Greenway Park

Greenway Park has a fully fenced off-leash dog area featuring dual-gate entrances for safe entry and exit. The dog park includes separate enclosures designated for small dogs, puppies, and elderly dogs, introduced in April 2024 on a trial basis. Greenway Park provides agility equipment, drinking water, waste bins, and dog waste bags within the dog area. The space includes seating for owners to supervise their dogs. Dogs must remain on-leash until inside the fenced area and be re-leashed before exiting. Greenway Park enforces strict guidelines: keep dogs under voice control, prevent harassment of other dogs and people, and promptly remove waste. Dogs are not permitted within ten metres of playground equipment, picnic tables, or barbecues.

Playground and Recreational Facilities at Greenway Park

Greenway Park has a small fenced playground equipped with play equipment suitable for young children. The playground at Greenway Park includes drinking water and off-street parking for easy access. Greenway Park features a skate park suitable for beginners and young children. The park includes multiple sports fields and courts, featuring netball courts and a baseball facility. Greenway Park has a modern community building overlooking Oval No. 1, with a kitchen, social room, meeting rooms, and restrooms available for community use and events.

Off-leash dogsSmall dogs and puppiesFamily picnicsYoung childrenSports and netballCasual walkingCommunity eventsAccessible recreation

🐕 Off-leash area🛝 Playground🔥 BBQ🚻 Toilets🅿️ Parking🚶 Paths🏅 Sports

Park Profile

Based on confirmed facilities data

Scores highest for: Dog Friendly · Family & Kids · Sports & Active · Accessibility · Facilities

#12

Fagan Park

📍 Galston, NSW 2159

Full details →

Fagan Park is a 28-hectare heritage and recreational destination in Galston featuring themed gardens, walking trails, playgrounds, and a newly opened fenced off-leash dog area. The park's standout feature is its dedicated off-leash dog park, which opened in January 2025 with double-gated entries and amenities for canine visitors.

Off-Leash Dog Area at Fagan Park

Fagan Park has a fully fenced off-leash dog area that opened in January 2025. The off-leash area features a rural heritage-style fence with two entrance points and double-gated entries for safety. Fagan Park's dog facility includes four seating areas, a drinking fountain with a dog bowl, concrete pathways, and shade tree plantings. The off-leash dog area operates daily from 7:00 AM to 5:30 PM (extending to 6:30 PM during daylight saving time). Dogs must remain under voice control at all times, and owners must keep dogs in sight, pick up waste, and prevent dogs from rushing at or harassing other dogs and people. Dogs must be leashed until entering the fenced area and reattached to leads before exiting.

Playgrounds and Family Facilities at Fagan Park

Fagan Park has multiple playgrounds equipped with swings, slides, and climbing structures suitable for children of different age groups. The playgrounds at Fagan Park provide safe and fun environments for young visitors. Fagan Park features numerous picnic tables and shelters throughout the park, making it ideal for family gatherings. Fagan Park has electric BBQ facilities available for visitors to cook meals outdoors. The park includes accessible playgrounds designed for children with mobility challenges. Fagan Park's duck pond provides additional nature engagement opportunities for families. Walking and cycling trails at Fagan Park connect recreational areas, allowing families to explore the park's natural beauty while enjoying outdoor activities.

Off-leash dog exerciseFamily days outChildren's playgroundsPicnics and BBQsGarden walksHeritage explorationAccessible recreationCycling and hiking

🐕 Off-leash area🛝 Playground🔥 BBQ🚻 Toilets🅿️ Parking🚶 Paths

Park Profile

Based on confirmed facilities data

Scores highest for: Dog Friendly · Family & Kids · Accessibility · Facilities

#13

Galston Recreation Reserve

📍 Galston, NSW 2159

Full details →

Galston Recreation Reserve is a multi-purpose community facility in Galston NSW offering sports ovals, netball courts, playgrounds, and a skate park. The reserve's standout feature is its comprehensive sports infrastructure combined with family-friendly recreational amenities including free electric BBQs and walking paths.

Sports Facilities and Ovals at Galston Recreation Reserve

Galston Recreation Reserve has a large sports oval suitable for various recreational activities and organized sports. Galston Recreation Reserve features multiple netball courts for netball enthusiasts. Galston Recreation Reserve includes a dedicated skate park designed for skateboarding and related activities. The reserve has outdoor fitness equipment stations available for public use. These facilities make Galston Recreation Reserve an ideal destination for both casual sports participation and competitive events. The large shelter accommodating approximately 100 people is available for hire, making Galston Recreation Reserve suitable for community sports gatherings and events.

Playgrounds and Recreation for Children at Galston Recreation Reserve

Galston Recreation Reserve has a playground equipped with play equipment suitable for children. Galston Recreation Reserve features a skate park adjacent to the playground, providing diverse recreational options. Galston Recreation Reserve includes shaded areas and benches throughout the reserve, ensuring children can play safely on sunny days. The playground at Galston Recreation Reserve is wheelchair accessible. Galston Recreation Reserve has public toilets and drinking water facilities nearby, making it convenient for families with children. The combination of play equipment and shaded seating makes Galston Recreation Reserve particularly family-friendly for day visits and picnics.

Family picnicsKids playgroundWeekend BBQSports trainingWalking and joggingCommunity eventsSkateboardingAccessible recreation

🛝 Playground🔥 BBQ🚻 Toilets🅿️ Parking🚶 Paths🏅 Sports

Park Profile

Based on confirmed facilities data

Scores highest for: Family & Kids · Sports & Active · Accessibility · Facilities

#14

Hayes Park

📍 Galston, NSW 2159

Full details →

Hayes Park in Galston NSW is a multi-sport facility and family recreation area featuring two fully fenced senior softball diamonds, four junior diamonds, soccer fields during winter, a large playground, skate park, and bike track for learning riders.

Off-Leash Dog Area at Hayes Park

Hayes Park has a designated off-leash area where dogs can run and play freely under owner supervision. The off-leash dog area at Hayes Park allows pet owners to exercise their dogs in a dedicated space. Hayes Park's off-leash facility requires visitors to follow local guidelines and rules for safety and cleanliness. This area makes Hayes Park a popular destination for dog owners in the Galston region seeking a controlled environment for their pets to socialise and exercise.

Playground, Skate Park and Bike Track

Hayes Park features a large playground with equipment suitable for children of various ages. Hayes Park includes a skate park available for visitors with skateboarding experience. Hayes Park offers a dedicated bike track designed for kids learning to ride, making it ideal for family visits. These facilities at Hayes Park provide multiple recreation options in a single location, appealing to families with children of different ages and interests.

Off-leash dogsKids playground and bike learningFamily picnics and BBQSoftball competitionsWinter soccerWeekend gatheringsSkateboardingSports events

🐕 Off-leash area🛝 Playground🔥 BBQ🚻 Toilets🅿️ Parking🏅 Sports

Park Profile

Based on confirmed facilities data

Scores highest for: Dog Friendly · Family & Kids · Sports & Active · Accessibility · Facilities

#15

Hornsby Park

📍 Hornsby, NSW 2077

Full details →

Hornsby Park in Hornsby NSW 2077 is a family-friendly recreation area featuring a recently upgraded children's playground, picnic facilities with free electric BBQs, and access to scenic walking trails including the Blue Gum Walk. The park also connects to the Hornsby Aquatic and Leisure Centre.

Playground and Family Facilities at Hornsby Park

Hornsby Park has a recently upgraded children's playground equipped with new soft fall surfaces including rubber surfacing and mulch. The playground includes fenced play structures designed specifically for young children, providing a safe play environment. Hornsby Park offers large shaded areas with ample trees, making the playground comfortable during sunny days. The park has public restrooms accessible to visitors. Hornsby Park is suitable for families with young children seeking a secure, well-maintained play space with nearby amenities and shade.

BBQ and Picnic Facilities at Hornsby Park

Hornsby Park has free electric barbecues available for public use. Hornsby Park provides sheltered picnic tables throughout the grounds. Hornsby Park features grassy spaces ideal for family gatherings and outdoor meals. The recently opened Crusher Plant Precinct within Hornsby Park includes additional picnic shelters and BBQ facilities with expansive views of the former quarry and surrounding bushland. Hornsby Park is well-suited for group picnics, family celebrations, and casual outdoor dining without additional costs.

Family picnicsYoung childrenWalking trailsBushwalkingBBQ gatheringsPublic transport accessScenic nature walksWeekend outings

🛝 Playground🔥 BBQ🚻 Toilets🅿️ Parking🚶 Paths

Park Profile

Based on confirmed facilities data

Scores highest for: Family & Kids · Accessibility · Facilities

#16

Hornsby Park

📍 Hornsby, NSW 2077

Full details →

Hornsby Park is a 60-hectare recreational destination in Hornsby NSW featuring a newly developed Crusher Plant Precinct with scenic lookouts, walking trails into Old Mans Valley, playgrounds, BBQ facilities, and sports amenities including tennis and basketball courts.

Playgrounds and Family Activities at Hornsby Park

Hornsby Park has a fenced playground equipped with play equipment suitable for children of various ages. The playground provides a safe, enclosed space for kids to enjoy outdoor recreation. Hornsby Park's expansive grassy areas support diverse recreational activities beyond the playground. The park's location near Hornsby Aquatic and Leisure Centre means families can combine playground visits with aquatic facilities. Hornsby Park offers picnic tables and sheltered areas, creating ideal conditions for family gatherings. The combination of playground access, open spaces, and nearby leisure facilities makes Hornsby Park an excellent destination for families with children seeking varied activities in a single location.

Walking Trails and Natural Bushland at Hornsby Park

Hornsby Park features access to bushwalks leading into Old Mans Valley, providing scenic walking opportunities through natural bushland. The park's recently developed Crusher Plant Precinct and Southern Lookout include new walking trails and viewing platforms. Hornsby Park offers the Heritage Steps, a steep bush track connecting the Crusher Plant Precinct to the area near Hornsby Aquatic and Leisure Centre, though this path requires reasonable fitness levels. The park's walking infrastructure provides varied difficulty levels—accessible lookout areas suit all visitors, while bush tracks serve experienced walkers. Future developments include a Quarry Loop walking and cycling track with additional scenic lookouts. Hornsby Park's extensive trail network makes it ideal for nature walks, photography, and outdoor exploration.

Family picnics with BBQWalking and bushwalkingChildren's playgroundTennis and basketballScenic lookoutsAccessible recreationDog walks (on-leash)Group gatherings

🛝 Playground🔥 BBQ🚻 Toilets🅿️ Parking🚶 Paths🏅 Sports

Park Profile

Based on confirmed facilities data

Scores highest for: Family & Kids · Sports & Active · Accessibility · Facilities

#17

James Park

📍 Hornsby, NSW 2077

Full details →

James Park in Hornsby NSW 2077 is a multi-purpose community park featuring a science-themed playground, outdoor sports facilities including soccer, cricket, basketball, and netball, plus fitness equipment and a 411-meter exercise circuit for walking and jogging.

Playground and Recreation for Kids

James Park has a science-themed play area designed to engage children with interactive equipment. James Park includes a ping pong table for public use. James Park provides shaded areas and seating throughout the grounds. The playground at James Park caters to various age groups with fenced areas for safety. Families visiting James Park can enjoy free play facilities combined with nearby picnic amenities. James Park also offers drinking water stations to keep children hydrated during play.

Sports Facilities and Athletic Activities

James Park contains a soccer field for team sports and recreational play. James Park has a cricket pitch with nets for practice and matches. James Park includes a basketball half-court for casual shooting and games. James Park features a netball hoop for netball enthusiasts. James Park provides a 411-meter exercise circuit suitable for walking, jogging, and fitness activities. The outdoor fitness equipment at James Park enables visitors to complete structured workout routines in an open-air setting.

Family playgroundsTeam sportsCasual recreationWeekend BBQWalking and joggingOutdoor fitnessKids' partiesPicnicking

🛝 Playground🔥 BBQ🚻 Toilets🅿️ Parking🚶 Paths🏅 Sports

Park Profile

Based on confirmed facilities data

Scores highest for: Family & Kids · Sports & Active · Accessibility · Facilities

#18

Old Mans Valley Park (proposed)

📍 Hornsby, NSW 2077

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Old Mans Valley Park (proposed) in Hornsby is a major recreational redevelopment transforming a former quarry site into a community hub. Its standout feature is the Field of Play—a 7,000+ square meter multipurpose green space with a bike pump track for mountain bikes, BMX, skateboards, and wheelchairs, plus a dedicated dog exercise area.

Field of Play and Multipurpose Recreation at Old Mans Valley Park (proposed)

Old Mans Valley Park (proposed) has a Field of Play spanning over 7,000 square meters of multipurpose recreational green space. The Field of Play features a versatile playing field suitable for various recreational activities. Old Mans Valley Park (proposed) includes a bike pump track designed for mountain bikes, BMX, skateboards, and wheelchairs, making it accessible to diverse users. The park also has event spaces designated for cultural events and community activations. Old Mans Valley Park (proposed) features accessible amenities including parking, restrooms, changing rooms, and picnic hubs throughout the development.

Mountain Biking and Bushwalking Trails at Old Mans Valley Park (proposed)

Old Mans Valley Park (proposed) offers approximately six kilometers of off-road mountain bike trails through scenic bushland. Old Mans Valley Park (proposed) features Heritage Steps—recently upgraded steep bushwalking paths that descend from near Hornsby Aquatic and Leisure Centre into the Crusher Plant Precinct. The Heritage Steps connect to the Blue Gum Walk and the Great North Walk, extending outdoor recreation opportunities. Old Mans Valley Park (proposed) has a Quarry Loop walking and cycling track planned for future development. These trails preserve the area's natural heritage while providing diverse outdoor recreation options for visitors of all abilities.

Mountain biking enthusiastsDog owners and pet exerciseFamily picnicsBMX and skateboard ridersBushwalkingCommunity eventsWheelchair usersHeritage site visitors

🐕 Off-leash area🔥 BBQ🚻 Toilets🅿️ Parking🚶 Paths🏅 Sports

Park Profile

Based on confirmed facilities data

Scores highest for: Dog Friendly · Sports & Active · Accessibility · Facilities

#19

Storey Park

📍 Hornsby, NSW 2077

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Storey Park in Hornsby NSW is a modern community destination featuring a fully fenced, inclusive playground with adventure areas for all ages, complemented by a community centre, BBQ facilities, and over 100 newly planted trees across landscaped grounds.

Playground and Bike Track

Storey Park features a fully fenced, inclusive playground environment designed for all age groups and abilities. The playground at Storey Park includes shaded play equipment suitable for younger children and adventure areas for older kids. Storey Park has a children's bike and scooter path integrated within the facility. The play environment at Storey Park was designed to be accessible and welcoming, with multiple seating areas for supervising adults. Storey Park's playground received positive visitor feedback, with a 4.4-star rating based on 285 reviews as of April 2023, with visitors particularly praising the modern equipment and safe design.

Picnic and BBQ Facilities

Storey Park provides dedicated barbecue and picnic areas ideal for family gatherings and community events. The park at Storey Park includes a large lawn area suitable for picnicking and outdoor dining. Storey Park has BBQ facilities available for public use during park hours. Storey Park offers shaded seating areas throughout the grounds, providing comfortable spots for meals and relaxation. The picnic facilities at Storey Park make it an excellent choice for weekend family outings or casual gatherings with friends.

Family picnicsYoung children's playBike and scooter practiceBBQ gatheringsCommunity eventsShaded outdoor relaxationAll-abilities playgroundWeekend family visits

🛝 Playground🔥 BBQ🚻 Toilets🅿️ Parking🚶 Paths

Park Profile

Based on confirmed facilities data

Scores highest for: Family & Kids · Accessibility · Facilities

#20

Arnold Avenue Reserve

📍 Kellyville, NSW 2155

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Arnold Avenue Reserve is a multi-sport facility in Kellyville, NSW offering two full-sized sports fields, netball courts, synthetic cricket nets, and a children's playground. The reserve features a shared pedestrian and cycling track, making it ideal for families and sports enthusiasts.

Playground and Recreation Track at Arnold Avenue Reserve

Arnold Avenue Reserve has a children's playground equipped with diverse play equipment. The playground features a double bay swing set with baby and toddler seats, ideal for younger children. Arnold Avenue Reserve includes a nest swing, climbing hut, double spring perch, and speed gyro for varied play experiences. Arnold Avenue Reserve has a shared pedestrian and cycling track running through the reserve, suitable for walking, jogging, and cycling. This track provides a safe recreational space for families and fitness enthusiasts of all ages and abilities.

Sports Facilities at Arnold Avenue Reserve

Arnold Avenue Reserve has two full-sized sports fields for football, cricket, and general sports use. Arnold Avenue Reserve features two netball courts for competitive netball matches and training. Arnold Avenue Reserve includes synthetic cricket nets with two lanes dedicated to cricket practice and coaching. Recent funding announcements indicate Arnold Avenue Reserve will receive basketball ring installations and line marking upgrades, plus enhanced cricket training nets. These facilities make Arnold Avenue Reserve a hub for community sports and competitive recreation in Kellyville.

Family picnics and BBQsChildren's playgroundSports training and matchesWalking and cyclingLeashed dogsCommunity eventsToddlers and young childrenSports enthusiasts

🛝 Playground🔥 BBQ🚻 Toilets🅿️ Parking🚶 Paths🏅 Sports

Park Profile

Based on confirmed facilities data

Scores highest for: Family & Kids · Sports & Active · Accessibility · Facilities

Frequently asked questions

Are the BBQs at Hills District parks electric or charcoal?

Most public BBQ facilities at Hills District parks managed by Hills Shire Council are electric BBQs, free to use with push-button timers. Charcoal or gas BBQs are generally not permitted.

Do I need to book a BBQ area at Hills District parks?

Most electric BBQ facilities are free and first-come, first-served. Some larger pavilion bookings for events can be made through Hills Shire Council. Individual BBQ units do not require booking.

Which Hills District parks are best for large group BBQs?

Parks with multiple BBQ units and covered shelters are best for large groups. Fred Caterson Reserve and major parks in Castle Hill, Baulkham Hills, and Kellyville often have 2–4 BBQ units per area.

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