Candlebark Park

Candlebark Park, nestled away on Fitzsimons Lane in Templestowe, is one of those special places that feels like a real escape into nature without having to drive for hours. It’s not your standard plastic-and-primary-colours playground; instead, it’s a sprawling adventure playscape that makes clever use of its bushy, natural environment. The park is part of the larger Westerfolds Park area and is designed to encourage imaginative, nature-based play. Think huge wooden structures, lots of things to climb, sandpits, and winding paths that feel like you’re on a mini bushwalk. It’s the kind of place where kids can get a little bit grubby and have a fantastic time doing it, with the Yarra River meandering nearby, adding to the beautiful, rustic atmosphere.

Age Appropriateness

This park really shines for a broad range of ages, but I’d say it’s prime territory for kids from about 3 to 12 years old. The toddlers and preschoolers will love the large sandpit area, the lower slides, and the basket swing. For the older kids (say, 5 and up), the massive, multi-level wooden fort is the main attraction. It features climbing walls, high slides, rope bridges, and a fireman's pole that provides a decent challenge. Because the park is so spread out and has varied equipment, younger and older siblings can all find something to keep them happily occupied.

The Highlights (Pros)

• Nature-Based Play: This is the absolute best thing about Candlebark Park. The equipment is predominantly made of wood and rope, blending beautifully into the surrounding bushland. It encourages kids to be more adventurous and creative than a standard playground might.
• The Adventure Fort: The huge timber fort is the heart of the playground. It's a fantastic structure with multiple levels, slides of varying heights, and different ways to climb up and down. It’s perfect for games of chasey or imaginative play.
• Excellent Facilities: The park is well-equipped for a family day out. There are clean, well-maintained toilets, free electric barbecues, and plenty of shaded picnic tables and shelters. This makes it easy to set up for lunch and spend a few hours here.
• Space to Explore: Beyond the main playground, there are walking and cycling tracks that connect to the broader Westerfolds Park and the Main Yarra Trail. It’s lovely to go for a family walk or bike ride after you’re done with the playground.
• Sense of Community: It has a really lovely, relaxed vibe. You'll see families set up for birthday parties and community groups meeting. It feels safe and welcoming.

The Watch-Outs (Cons)

• It’s Not Fenced: This is the big one for parents of runners. The playground is open to the surrounding parkland and is not far from the main road (Fitzsimons Lane) and the car park. You absolutely need to keep a close eye on toddlers.
• Proximity to Water: The Yarra River is nearby. While it’s not right next to the playground, it’s easily accessible via the walking paths, which is another reason vigilant supervision is a must for little ones.
• Can Get Very Busy: Being one of the best parks in the area, it gets packed on weekends and during school holidays. This can make finding a car park and a picnic table a real challenge if you don’t get there early.
• Bark/Tanquam Surface: The ground cover is mostly bark chips and sand. While great for cushioning falls, it’s not ideal for crawlers and can get messy, so be prepared for a car full of sand and bark on the way home.

Practical Survival Tips for Parents

• Arrive Early: On a sunny weekend, aim to get there before 10:30 am to snag a good parking spot and a shaded picnic table. The main car park fills up quickly.
• Pack for a Day: Bring everything you need – picnic lunch, snacks, water bottles, sunscreen, and hats. While there are water fountains, there are no cafes or shops within easy walking distance.
• Bring Scooters or Bikes: If your kids have the energy, the adjacent paths are perfect for a ride, offering a great way to break up the time at the playground.
• Gumboots for a Rainy Day: The park is fantastic even after a bit of rain, with lots of potential for muddy puddles and nature exploration. Just come prepared with the right footwear!
• Eyes Like a Hawk: Because of the unfenced nature and the sheer size of the fort, it's easy to lose sight of your child for a second. Set up a home base near the area where your child is most likely to play and keep a headcount. For younger kids, it’s definitely a hands-on supervision kind of park.