Black Mountain Peninsula (with kids)
How Kids-Friendly is Black Mountain Peninsula?
What makes it 88% Kids-Friendly: Kids up to 12 get a modern playground, fenced swim enclosure, seasonal inflatable aqua park and lawns for ball games, plus toilets and BBQs, but parents must watch open water closely.
Positives:
- Stroller-friendly terrain: Wide, sealed paths circle the peninsula with no steps.
- Free parking nearby: Park along Garry Owen Drive or John Cardiff Close close to all facilities.
Challenges:
- Limited shade: Few natural shelters near the beach—pack sun hats and sunscreen.
- Seasonal access: Aqua Park only runs Nov–Mar—check dates before planning.
What is Black Mountain Peninsula?
- A 22-hectare grassy peninsula extending into Lake Burley Griffin at the base of Black Mountain
- An urban parkland blending open lawns, remnant eucalypt woodland and a modern playground precinct
- A public reserve managed by ACT Parks and Conservation with designated picnic shelters and lakeshore water access
What is so special about Black Mountain Peninsula for with kids?
- Modern playground with slides, climbing and a Liberty swing for ages 3–12.
- Safe sandy beach with a shallow swim zone for young kids.
- Five free sheltered BBQ pits and picnic tables on the grass.
- Calm lake launches for family canoe, kayak and paddle-board fun.
- Seasonal inflatable Aqua Park adds extra splashy excitement in summer.
Recommended visit duration: 3–4 hours
Why 3–4 hours visit duration is ideal for with kids: A half-day lets kids play at the playground, swim in the sandy cove and paddle without rushing.
Kids-Friendly Activities in Black Mountain Peninsula
Modern playground:
Explore slides, climbing frames and a toddler-friendly Liberty swing.
Tip: Visit in the morning when the surface is cooler and seats are free.
Shallow beach & netted swim zone:
Let kids paddle safely on the sandy shore with a fenced deeper area nearby.
Tip: Check water-quality signs and bring arm floats for younger children.
Family picnic & BBQ:
Use one of five free sheltered BBQ pits with picnic tables.
Tip: Bring charcoal, utensils and a small cleaning kit; check the online BBQ report for working pits.
Kayak & paddle-board launch:
Launch canoes, kayaks or SUPs into calm Lake Burley Griffin.
Tip: Share a double kayak with a child; pack life jackets for all.
Canberra Aqua Park:
Tackle inflatables, slides and jumping pillows on the water (ages 5+).
Tip: Book sessions online early; kids under 10 must stay with an adult.
How to Make the Most of Your Visit to Black Mountain Peninsula
- Arrive early: Secure a picnic spot and park close to the playground before crowds arrive.
- Check BBQ status: Use the ACT Government’s weekly report to find working grill stations.
- Book aqua sessions online: Reserve Aqua Park slots in advance during summer weekends to avoid sell-outs.
Reviews of Black Mountain Peninsula
Scarlette Constenla
Beautiful place to have a picnic or barbie with friends or family. There's a tiny beach where you can swim, stunning views, water and bathrooms. I really loved it
Subiran Manandhar
A great place for family picnic. Specially, at the moment, there is an aqua park set up and you can a beautiful time playing in the lake. You can also hire some paddle board and paddle around the lake.
Playgrounds_ Canberra
Acton- Black Mountain Peninsula, Garryowen Drive • BBQ Area Near Rowing Club. Another larger BBQ area near playground and beach. BBQs – 1 dual top BBQ, both cooktops facing towards rowing club. Picnic Tables – 5 with BBQ under tree shade , 1 under shade shelter. Also Available – bins, water tap on BBQ and toilets. Distance to playground – BBQ21 is nearby entry to Black Mountain Peninsula
Imran Khan
Free BBQ tables, water sports, sitting area , shaded tress and walking tracks... there is enough parking and functional areas... this is the place you can arrange birthday and happy functions.also have washrooms and toilets, big grounds for kids highly recommended place for weekends..nice place to have drone pictures and water sports for kids and kids swings are clean...
Sara Shepherd
A wonderful family park and relaxing green space with amenities and BBQ surrounded by Lake Burley Griffin on three sides of the Peninsula. Beautiful views of the lake and Canberra City.
When is the best time to visit Black Mountain Peninsula (Canberra, Australia)?
Summer (Nov–Mar) brings the Aqua Park and warm water—pack swim gear and book ahead. In cooler months, stick to playgrounds and lakeside walks—bring jackets and binoculars for birdwatching. Spring wildflowers line the paths.
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Typical Budget for a Family of 4 (2 Adults + 2 Kids)
| Item | Cost (Approx.) |
|---|---|
| Food & charcoal for BBQ | AUD 30 |
| Kayak rental (2 kayaks, 1 hr) | AUD 70 |
| Canberra Aqua Park (4 pax session) | AUD 96 |
| Total Estimated | AUD 196 |
Note: All prices are indicative and may vary. Please check directly with the venue for the most accurate and up-to-date information.
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Map of Black Mountain Peninsula
Address: Garryowen Dr, Acton ACT 2601, Australia
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About Black Mountain Peninsula
Opening Hours
Hours may vary during holidays, special events, and peak seasons. Please check the official website for the most up-to-date information.
Website
Official WebsitePhone Number
+61 13228110 BEST nearby Activities
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