River Heart Parklands

Situated in the beautiful River Heart Parklands in Ipswich is the family favourite Bob Gamble Park. Featuring two water play areas, a mega playground and a charming nature-based discovery park it is bound to entertain families for hours. The parks riverside setting makes it a picturesque backdrop for play dates and birthday parties, while its central location provides close access to some of Ipswich city’s other great kid-friendly attractions.

River Heart Playground features

The Bob Gamble section of River Heart Parklands at Ipswich boasts a wide variety of equipment and engaging play spaces which were designed with the natural environment in mind. A large, climbing frame with attached super slide stands tall in the middle of the playground and is sure to grab the attention of keen climbers.

There’s also plenty of other outlets for children to get their bodies moving with a swing set, interesting rope balance beam and a cool tandem flying fox for a little bit of competitive fun. The once sandy base has now been replaced with bark chip after recent flooding in the area but children will still enjoy the use of mini diggers.

The wider parkland is well equipped for recreational use with several shaded picnic areas, bench seating, BBQs, accessible toilets with showers, after-dark lighting and an outdoor gym. If you have time for a wander, then there’s also a gentle boardwalk which follows along the Bremer River for 1.2km and is pram and wheelchair friendly.

While a lot of the playground is covered by shade sails and the leafy surrounding trees, there are some unprotected areas especially over the upper water play section. Keep in mind there is no solid barrier between the play space and nearby road so close adult supervision is a must.

Waterplay at River Heart Parklands

River Heart Parklands is home to not one but two different water play zones which range from a toddler-sized zero depth section to a more thrilling, multi-level splash zone. The upper section is built from a series of blocks and boulders where budding engineers can control the flow and direction of the river. The lower section consists of powerful fountains where children are almost guaranteed to get soaked, so remember to bring those togs or a spare change of clothes!

River Heart Parklands Imagination Factor

This delightful playground is loaded with opportunities for imaginary play with the cascading water that resembles a rocky mountain pass or splash zone which looks like a tropical oasis. The height of the climbing frame and slide also sets the scene for many great adventures but what really stands out here is the neighbouring Discovery Forest.

Located next to the playground and down from the main carpark, is a bushland haven full of colourful surprises and exciting nature play. There’s two, large cubby house like forts overlooking the parklands, intriguing totem pole people, wooden bridges and balancing beam. This section nicely contrasts the more modern playground equipment and is a wonderful environment for curious minds to explore. It is built on rough, hilly terrain however which makes it difficult to access on wheels.

River Heart Parklands Accessibility

The main car park is located about 150 metres from the playground and connects via concrete paths. Street parking is available and does provide close access however it is less suitable for prams and wheelchairs due to the steep incline and limited ramp access. Outdoor showers are located at the large toilet block, which has standard stalls, accessible stalls and baby change facilities

River Heart Parkland features

Accessible toilets with showers
Unfenced playground – some barriers between road and river
Partially shaded playground
Two water play areas
Discovery Forest with balancing logs and tree stumps
Two cubby houses/forts
Play wooden rowboat
Large, grassed area for ball games
Mega slide
Large cargo netting climbing structure
Mini diggers
Tandem flying fox
Rope log swing
Swing set
Picnic shelters
BBQs
Boardwalk with viewing platforms
Outdoor gym
Ample on site and street parking

What We Thought of River Heart Parklands

We think River Heart Parklands, including Bob Gamble Park, is a great destination for water loving Brisbane Kids with its free and expansive wet zones. The Discovery Forest is a unique drawcard which sets it apart from other playgrounds in the region and is sure to appeal to inquisitive toddlers right through to the big kids. The pretty parklands cover a generous space, and the modern facilities are a big win for the adults too.

Family Fun Nearby

There’s plenty to see and do within the vicinity of River Heart Parklands including the Ipswich Children’s Library which runs frequent books and bubs sessions and is filled with interactive experiences for little learners.

Just across the river you’ll also find the terrific The Workshops Rail Museum for train enthusiasts and the Riverlink Shopping Centre with Limelight Cinemas.

River Heart Parklands is nearly a day trip in itself, however, we usually plan our visits to coincide with the various children’s’ installations at the Ipswich Art Gallery