Melbourne families have a new reason to rug up and head outdoors this autumn, with a major playground upgrade quietly transforming one of the city’s most beloved green spaces into a full-blown leafy destination.
Ruffey Lake Park in Templestowe—already a go-to for weekend picnics and long walks—has unveiled a sprawling new “sand and water” adventure zone as part of a redevelopment of its Victoria Street Playspace. And this lifts it beyond a standard playground refresh.
Why Ruffey Lake Park Is Perfect For Autumn Weekends
Set within the park’s 68 hectares of rolling lawns and golden-leafy trails, the upgraded space leans into nature play, blending timber structures and rock features into the surrounding landscape.
At its centre is a striking lookout tower, complete with a tunnel slide that twists its way back down to ground level—already emerging as a fast favourite with older kids. However, the true highlight sits at ground level.
The expanded sand and water precinct invites kids to get hands-on, with a network of pumps, channels and textured surfaces designed for interactive play. A stream-like rock formation, dotted with blue pebbles, mimics flowing water and adds to the sensory experience—encouraging everything from dam-building to full-scale muddy adventures.
The upgrade, delivered by Manningham Council, reflects a broader push toward more inclusive and imaginative play spaces across Melbourne’s suburbs, where natural elements replace plastic and kids are encouraged to explore more freely.
Inside The Revamped Nature-Inspired Playground
Beyond the water zone, there’s plenty to keep energy levels high. A rope balance circuit adds a dose of adrenaline, while a giant basket swing and all-abilities spinner ensure the space caters to a wide range of ages and abilities. A colourful gecko sculpture weaves through the play area, doubling as both artwork and climbing feature.
Importantly, the appeal of Ruffey Lake Park extends well beyond the playground fence. As the trees lining its walking tracks shift into autumn colour, the reserve becomes one of the city’s more underrated seasonal spots. Parents can grab a takeaway coffee and settle in under the canopy, while kids roam between play zones.
For older children—or anyone convinced they’ve outgrown swings and slides—the park’s northern end offers a more serious challenge. A Ninja Warrior-style obstacle course tests strength and agility, while a permanent 18-hole disc golf course draws casual players and seasoned throwers alike.
Also add in free electric barbecues, picnic shelters and wide-open lawns, and it’s easy to see why locals have long dubbed Ruffey Lake Park “the park that has it all”. The new playspace simply tips it into must-visit territory this season.
Things To Do Nearby
Just a short drive from Ruffey Lake, Westerfolds Park offers a riverside escape along the Yarra, with kangaroo sightings, birdlife and a 9km loop trail popular with runners and cyclists, plus access for walking or canoeing.
Nearby, Petty’s Orchards showcases Templestowe’s orchard heritage with over 200 apple varieties, an on-site café and fresh produce tastings, while Down The Rabbit Hole Cafe draws brunch crowds with creative dishes and strong coffee.
Families can finish at Wombat Bend Playground in Finns Reserve, a nature-based play space with climbing structures, a flying fox and forest trails. Otherwise, Ruffey Creek Trail offers another peaceful extension of the park experience, linking Ruffey Lake Park directly to the Yarra River and Westerfolds Park via a fully paved, stroller and bike-friendly path shaded by native trees and rich with birdlife.
Finally, to finish the day, D’Oro Italian Restaurant and Wine Bar in Templestowe serves as an elegant dinner option, pairing authentic Italian dishes with a strong selection of wines and cocktails in a relaxed, upscale setting on James Street.
Getting There
By Car
Ruffey Lake Park in Templestowe is easily accessible from Melbourne by a range of transport options. A car/taxi offers the quickest trip, taking around 17 minutes and costing approximately $40–$50.
By Public Transport
Public transport is also available, with the 907 bus running from Exhibition St/Lonsdale St to Doncaster Rd/Wetherby Rd in about 31 minutes and frequent departures every 20 minutes. Train services on the Belgrave and Lilydale lines also connect nearby, with onward travel required to reach the park.
Early mornings are your best bet if you’re planning to claim a picnic spot before the weekend crowds roll in.