Bristow Smith Reserve is Goolwa's premier park for families looking for a fun day out! The nature playspace features a 10-metre long restored wooden fishing boat, Parkour elements, water play with a creek bed, sensory wall, climbing nets, basket swings and stepping logs, along with an upgraded beach area on the banks of the River Murray, BBQs and shelters. There is plenty of open area for sport, activities and picnicking!
  • BBQ facilities BBQ facilities
  • Cycling Cycling
  • Toilets Toilets
  • Play equipment Play equipment
  • Picnic area Picnic area
  • Shelter Shelter
  • Walking and hiking trails Walking and hiking trails
Facility type: Park
  • cyprus pine tree featuring hand carved Australian animals
  • nearby facilities include boat ramp and jetty
  • kids shallow swimming beach access (banks of the River Murray)
  • three barbecues available
  • drinking water fountain.

The playspace provides a unique regionally significant open space to inspire connection with the local environment and engage local children in creative and imaginative play. It further provides children with physical, sensory and mentally stimulating play opportunities and allows all children to challenge themselves, irrespective of age and ability.

A number of the sensory elements of the play space have been funded through the generous $50,000 donation by the Fleurieu Philanthropy Foundation and include a sensory wall, musical and sound features and interpretive artwork  scattered throughout the playspace.

Waterside - 'Splash and Play' area

Please be aware that the area of water adjacent Bristow Smith Reserve from the Goolwa Aquatic Club car park extending for 80 metres south and for 40 metres seaward, has restricted water traffic is in place to ensure safety, please follow the signage in place. Permitted activities include:

  • Swimming;
  • Bathing
  • Diving;
  • Snorkeling;
  • Paddling;
  • Canoeing;
  • Kayaking;
  • Boating by use of any other human powered vessels.

During the period of 1 January 2024 to 31 December 2025, activities other than those listed above are prohibited in this area of water.

There is a dedicated Jet Ski Park for users of Personal Water Craft activities, further along Barrage Road – further details are available on the Goolwa Jet Ski Park page.

Bristow Smith 1

Bristow Smith 4Bristow Smith 2Bristow Smith 3

Bristow Smith Reserve Master Plan

Getting there:
Barrage Road
Goolwa SA SA 5214
For more information, please contact: