Free splash parks and water play areas to cool off this summer

6 January 2026

As temperatures start to rise and the school holidays continue, South Australian councils offer plenty of free water play spots to help families beat the heat.

South Australia has some great free splash parks and water play areas that are perfect for cooling down during summer.

These parks offer everything from interactive sprays and fountains to slides and splash zones for little ones and big kids alike.

Whether you want a quick stop in the city or a day trip out of town, there are plenty of places to make a splash and enjoy the warm weather.

Check out what’s on offer across some councils.

Copper Coast Council

Splash Town

Looking to make a day trip along the Yorke Peninsula? Make sure to visit Splash Town at Moonta Bay Foreshore, which offers free water play with waterslides, tipping buckets and water mushrooms for children to enjoy beside the sea.

To learn more, visit Copper Coast Council.

District Council of Franklin Harbour

Cowell Water Park

You can beat the Eyre Peninsula heat at Cowell Water Park, which features two water slides, a splash zone with a tipping bucket and plenty of space for picnics and play at the foreshore. The park also has lawn areas, shelters and barbecues, making it ideal for a warm day.

To learn more, visit District Council of Franklin Harbour.

City of Burnside

Tusmore Park Wading Pool

Come enjoy a rising favourite as summer heats up -Tusmore Park Wading Pool features a shallow fenced water play area with picnic lawns, water jets and a creek style section for children to splash around safely.

To learn more, visit City of Burnside.

City of Playford

Playford Alive Town Park water play

Playford Alive Town Park includes a large water play zone that draws families with interactive fountains and sprays alongside playground equipment and picnic spaces. It’s perfect for a full day out in the sun.

To learn more, visit City of Playford.

City of Tea Tree Gully

Shearwater Park water play

The upgrade to the Shearwater Park Playground in Wynn Vale features a refreshing water play area and sand section for kids to enjoy together with nature play elements and shade areas.

To learn more, visit City of Tea Tree Gully.

City of Holdfast Bay

Glenelg Foreshore water play

Located on the seaside of the iconic Glenelg Town Hall, the Glenelg Foreshore play space and coastal reserve includes interactive water fountains near the beach, blending seaside fun with play equipment for a great cooling experience.

To learn more, visit City of Holdfast Bay.

Barunga West Council

Port Broughton Splash Pad

Take a refreshing experience at the splash pad at Port Broughton Civic Square, which runs daily and features interactive jets that activate with a button press, making it a fun place to cool off while enjoying the town square.

To learn more, visit Barunga West Council.

Image credit: Splash Town .