Country Paradise Parklands playground in Nerang is a delightful blend of traditional country charm and innovative playground designs. Having secured the Playspace Award for QLD in 2022, this hidden gem offers a refreshing hinterland escape for families on the Gold Coast.
Country Paradise Parklands Playground
At the heart of Country Paradise Parklands lies its stunning 11.5m windmill* centrepiece and 2-level slide, accessible via a water-tank tunnel and suspension bridge – drawing in families with the promise of playful adventures.
A comprehensive play area is offered, equipped with an assortment of play equipment which caters to various age groups, ensuring all kids, regardless of age, have an engaging experience.
One of the standout features that particularly caught our attention was the dedicated section for young toddlers. Thoughtfully designed, this space ensures the youngest visitors have an area tailored just for them.
Imagine a completely miniature-sized play environment where everything is reachable and navigable by tiny hands and feet. From tunnels and slides to climbing walls, swing bridges, and a play hut – it’s a haven for toddlers, giving them both a sense of independence and security in a space crafted to their size.
Beyond the toddler zone, older kids are treated to a John Deere tractor-themed play area. This delightful space is accentuated with an enclosed curly slide, viewing bubbles, climbing rope, and wheels that beckon kids for an imaginative play. The farm animal spring rockers provide added fun, enhancing the rural charm of the playground.
A significant point for parents to note is the wooden suspension bridge leading to the windmill tower. While it undeniably adds to the adventurous allure of the park, the spacing of its steps may pose a challenge for younger children. The steps are relatively wide-set, therefore parents should closely supervise their kids, especially the little ones, when crossing this bridge.
The playground also incorporates a playful in-ground trampoline, merging the thrill of jumping with the safety of its ground-level design, making it enjoyable for both children and adults. Meanwhile, the sandpit with log stepping stones and a log balance track beckons those looking for tactile play.
While the playground boasts a variety of features, the water play section was somewhat underwhelming. At first glance, the two water pumps and surrounding creek bed hint at interactive water fun, but the reality is a bit disappointing. The water play lacks the expected dynamic interaction, with water simply emptying out into a creek bed without much engagement.
Note – at time of writing in September 2023, the top of the windmill was out for repair
Imagination Factor at Country Paradise Parklands
Country Paradise Parklands ignites children’s creativity, transporting them to scenes of rural life and farm adventures. The diverse play structures encourage tales of navigating creek beds, overseeing vast farmlands from the windmill tower, and lively farm activities such as riding in tractors and herding wildlife. It’s a setting where everyday play seamlessly morphs into imaginative farm life stories.
Accessibility at Country Paradise Parklands
While Country Paradise Parklands boasts a wealth of amenities, a slight inconvenience is the placement of the toilets—requiring a short trek across a road, albeit still within the Parklands, and about 100m from the playground.
However, compensating for this are ample designated parking spaces right by the playground. Additionally, the park offers numerous spots for group activities, from shaded picnic shelters to a spacious grassy oval, ensuring a comfortable experience for visitors.
Country Paradise Parklands Features
- Unfenced playground
- Toilets
- Shade sails covering half of the playground
- Soft fall and sand base
- Suspension bridge
- Climbing wall and post
- In-ground trampoline
- Toddler play structures
- Slides
- Swings (flat, toddler and basket)
- Rollers and ramps for scooters
- Playing field
- Paved path network
- Shaded picnic shelters
- Green space
- Water fountain
- BBQs
- Parking
About Country Paradise Parklands
The parklands flourish under the dedicated care of the volunteer-driven Nerang Country Paradise Association, though the City of Gold Coast oversees the playground and toilets. Within these grounds, visitors can discover a community garden, the Men’s Shed, the Sheila Shack, and Healing Hooves —a heartwarming program that rehabilitates rescued horses, giving them a newfound life as therapy animals for both children and adults.
For those seeking a venue within the parklands, there are several rentable spaces tailored for private occasions which can be booked online. Notably, The Playhouse stands out as an ideal location for children’s birthday celebrations or other special events. With a rental rate of just $100 for 3 hours, it’s quite affordable!
What We Thought of Country Paradise Parklands
Our experience at Country Paradise Parklands was a pleasant surprise. The harmony of Country Paradise Parklands’ rural ambiance amidst the Gold Coast hinterlands provided a refreshing contrast we didn’t realise we needed. It’s hard to say whether our favourite part of the visit was the roller slide off the water tank tunnel or getting to see the neighbouring horses and ponies up close.
How to Get to Country Paradise Parklands
231 Beaudesert Nerang Rd, Nerang QLD 4211
Pay attention when turning off the main road, as the playground isn’t directly visible. Look for the small, wooden ‘Country Paradise Parklands’ sign at the entry.
Country Paradise Parklands, 231 Beaudesert Nerang Road, Nerang, 4211
Other Photos of Country Paradise Parklands
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