James Ruse Reserve, located on Harris and Hassall Streets in Parramatta, is home to an AWESOME water park, dry playground and skate park that you must visit. With a fantastic mix of water play equipment, shaded areas, and convenient facilities, this park ticks all the boxes for a stress-free family outing.
Water Playground
Operating from September to May, between 9am and 8pm, the Water Park features a variety of interactive water elements, including fountains, tipping buckets, and water jets, all set on a colorful, non-slip surface. The area is shaded with sailcloths, but sunscreen and hats are still definitely required!. To activate the water features, kids can press a button located near the picnic shelters at the east end of the playground.
While the play areas are not fenced, a low-level log fence surrounds the reserve and sandstone pavers surround the water play area, providing a modest barrier from nearby roads. Supervision is still required..
Playground and Skate Park
Adjacent to the water area is a dry playground that incorporates historical elements related to James Ruse, a notable figure from the First Fleet. The playground includes a rope climbing structure with a slide, swings, rockers, and a mound with an inlaid slide, catering to children aged 3 to 10. There’s also a big skate park that attracts both beginners and seasoned skaters.
Facilities
BBQs and Picnic Areas: Multiple picnic shelters and tables are available, along with BBQ facilities installed in 2016, making it a good option for birthdays or family gatherings.
Toilets: Currently, there are temporary toilets (portaloos) on-site from spring through autumn. Plans for a permanent amenities block have been approved as part of the park’s masterplan.
Plan Your Visit
The park has a great grassy areas, perfect for picnics or games. Pack a blanket and your favourite snacks to enjoy under the shade of nearby trees. With so much seating available, you won’t need to worry about finding a spot to settle in. Make sure to bring everything you need including a towel and change of clothes – they kids will likely want to stay much longer than planned!
Getting There
Located at the intersection of Harris and Parkes Streets, there is limited on-site parking with about 20 metered spaces on Hassall Street available Monday to Friday.
Additional metered spots are on Harris Street, and free parking can be found in surrounding streets. However, parking can be challenging during school holidays and weekends.
RDM Rating
Age range: 1-10
Coffee close by: 0
Shade sail: 1
Bike/scooter track: 1
Toilets: 1
Can host a party (BBQ, tables, toilets): 1
Fenced: 0 – but still fairly safe as it’s away from the road
TOTAL: 4 / 6
Want to see more parks and playgrounds around Ryde? See our full list!