As a child, Blackbutt Reserve always felt like a magical place. I remember visiting with my parents and walking down from the old car park off Lookout Road. While it looks very different today, the beautiful transformation of Richley Reserve and its nature-inspired playground has made it an even more special destination. If you’re looking for a day outdoors with the family, this back-to-nature experience is one you’ll all love.
Arriving at Richley Reserve
Richley Reserve is located at the rear of Blackbutt Reserve. To get there, continue past the Blackbutt shopping village along Orchardtown Road, then turn left into Freyberg Street. Follow the signs to the car park at the end of the road. The car park is open daily from 7 am to 7 pm. Metered parking applies in both Richley Reserve and Blackbutt.
Settle in and explore
From the car park, follow any of the walking paths towards the open grassy areas, taking in the tranquil duck ponds and natural bushland along the way. There is plenty of space to spread out a picnic rug and enjoy a relaxing day outdoors. Fire up one of the wood-fired barbecues for a traditional cook-up, or make use of the convenient electric barbecues. You’ll also find toilets nearby, with the fantastic adventure playground just ahead, ready to keep the kids entertained for hours.
Richley Reserve Playground
Richley Reserve Playground is an exciting nature-inspired adventure space where children can climb, balance and explore using rocks, logs and timber play structures. Designed with older children in mind and offering improved accessibility, it encourages imaginative outdoor play in a beautiful natural setting.
Planning a birthday party or family gathering? Picnic shelters can be booked within and around the playground, while the expansive grassy areas provide plenty of space to spread out with your own picnic and enjoy a relaxing day outdoors.
Walking to Blackbutt Reserve
One of our favourite things to do is walk from Richley Reserve over to Blackbutt Reserve. Follow the emu footprints marked along the path, and they’ll lead the way. The first section is a steady uphill climb, but don’t let that put you off; the entire walk is paved and takes only around 10 minutes.
Begin at the amenities block, where you’ll find a map to help you get your bearings before setting off. Once you reach the top of the hill, continue straight ahead and follow the path as it gently winds downhill into Blackbutt Reserve, where the resident emus and kangaroos will greet you.
Blackbutt Reserve
The resident animals are the stars of Blackbutt Reserve, making it a favourite destination for families. Alongside the wildlife, you’ll find a smaller adventure playground, spacious lawns, picnic shelters and public toilets, making it an ideal spot for parties and family gatherings.
Before or after exploring, stop by the multi-purpose community facility and café for a delicious breakfast or lunch in the cosy indoor seating area.
Meet the animals
The wildlife exhibits are open daily from 10 am to 4.30 pm, with bushland pathways leading you past a variety of native Australian animals. Time your visit to catch the daily keeper talks and feeding sessions, including the wombats (10.30 am), birds (10.45 am), nocturnal animals (1.30 pm) and koalas (2 pm).
For an extra-special experience, book a Critter Encounter at the Wildlife Arena for an interactive reptile presentation.
A Perfect family day out
Introduce little ones to Australian wildlife, enjoy the adventure playground or share a picnic with family. It’s the perfect place to soak up the peaceful bushland surrounds; Blackbutt Reserve and Richley Reserve offer something for every age. Best of all, many of the experiences are free, making it one of Newcastle’s most affordable family days out. Pack a picnic, allow plenty of time to explore, and don’t be surprised if this becomes a place your family returns to time and time again. Creating memories just as magical as the ones I still cherish from my own childhood.
