If you’re looking for somewhere completely different to explore with the kids, Hornsby Park is one to add straight to your list. Just a short drive from Ryde, this brand-new park has just opened its first stage — and it’s already seriously impressive.

Set inside a former quarry and surrounded by dramatic cliffs and an ancient volcanic landscape, it genuinely feels like you’ve stepped out of Sydney and into a bushland escape.

Huge and packed with space to roam, it’s a refreshing change from your usual playground or oval — and if your kids love a bit of adventure, it’s absolutely worth the drive.

Huge Changes

Hornsby Park is being transformed from a former quarry into a massive 60-hectare recreational space, blending bushland, history and open parkland.

Once an industrial site where volcanic rock was crushed for use across Sydney, it’s now being reimagined as a place for families to explore, relax and take in the landscape.

The result is a really unique setting where towering rock faces, native bush and wide-open space come together — not your typical suburban park, but somewhere that feels like a proper adventure.

What’s Open Right Now

The Crusher Plant Precinct (Main Entry Point)

Head to Quarry Road, Hornsby — this is where you’ll find the main entry and hub.

Here you’ll find:

• Open lawns for picnics
• Picnic shelters and seating
• Free electric BBQ facilities
• Pram-friendly access paths
• Water available onsite

It’s an easy place to set up and spend a few hours.

Southern Lookout

This is the highlight — and honestly, the reason to go.

A long viewing platform stretches out over the quarry, delivering:

• Huge cliff faces and sweeping views
• A striking perspective over the ancient volcanic landscape
• A proper “wow” moment when you arrive

Even better — it’s fully accessible, so prams, scooters and grandparents can all get there easily.

Even More Adventures

If you’ve got older kids (or feel like a bit of a workout), there’s more to explore.

The upgraded Heritage Steps offer a steep bushwalk down into the precinct and connect to:

• Blue Gum Walk
• Great North Walk

This is what makes Hornsby Park so versatile:

• Easy visit → picnic + lookout
• More active → proper bushwalk and explore

Why Families Will Love It

This isn’t just a playground stop — it’s more of a mini outdoor adventure.

• Wide open space for kids to run
• Bushland setting that feels like a real escape
• Safe, accessible lookout
• Room for scooters, balls and exploring
• Perfect for a slower, more relaxed outing

Good to Know Before You Go

• Enter via Quarry Road, Hornsby
• Dogs allowed on leash
• No café onsite — bring snacks or grab something nearby
• Free BBQs available (you can also bring a portable one)
• Water available onsite
• You can bring a small shade shelter
• Open daily and free entry
• Still a work in progress — more areas coming

Nearby Bonus

• The Heritage Steps connect near Hornsby Aquatic and Leisure Centre — perfect if you want to add a swim to your outing
• Hornsby town centre is just a short drive away for coffee or lunch

What’s Coming Next

What’s open now is only part of what’s to come.

Future plans include:

• Quarry Loop walking and cycling track
• Mountain bike trails and jump tracks
• A huge “Field of Play” open space
• More lookouts and walking tracks

AKA, if you love it now, it’s only going to get better.

RDM Tip

Do this as a half-day outing:

• Grab coffee or lunch in Hornsby first
• Head to the park for a picnic + explore
• Let the kids roam and take in the views
• More info here