Davidson Park in Garigal National Park, Forestville
Davidson Park is a lovely spot that I have just discovered. It is perfect for picnics, birthday parties, fishing and maybe a bit of water sports. Set inside Garigal National Park, alongside a bit of Middle Harbour Creek you can play alongside the waters edge and feel a million miles away from the City.
For ages I had been driving over Roseville Bridge and wondering what the piece of grass was below. I also couldn’t work out how on earth to get there. Then someone suggested we try it out for an Australian Day BBQ and i jumped at the opportunity to go.
WHERE IS DAVIDSON PARK
Davidson Park is the part of Garingal National Park that lies on the North East side of Roseville Bridge. If you cross Roseville Bridge heading from the North Shore to the Northern Beaches you will see it on your left.
The official address is Healey Way, Forrestville as you can see from the map above. There are some decent directions set out below because getting to the entrance is a bit difficult.
HOW TO GET TO DAVIDSON PARK
You can only gain access to Davidson Park if you’re travelling West (from the beach towards Chatswood). Come down the hill towards the bridge, there is a blue sign indicating that Davidson Park is 500m away. Approaching the bridge you will see the entrance, you go left and wind down towards the water – if you go left at the bottom you will go to the boat launch area, if you turn right and stay on the water side of the road you will find the entrance to Davidson Park.
COST OF ENTRY
You will have to pay Park Entrance Fees as soon as you get to the entrance. The current day fee is $8 which includes your entry and parking. The ticketing machine is very very old and the button gets stuck so you may find yourself having to pay for 3 days. Its a park and pay so remember to display the ticket on your dash board.
WHAT IS THERE TO DO AT DAVIDSON PARK
Picnic and play. There are a few areas which have BBQs for you to use and picnic benches dotted along the waterfront. There is an area, Area 2 which can be booked from the local council, NPWS Forestville on (02) 9451 3479.
There is plenty of space for kids to run around crazy and play games. With all the trees you should be able to find a spot in the shade to eat. Parking is aplenty so it’s great for a family gathering or celebration. While there are meant to be toilets in the park but I haven’t come across them myself.
Just so you are aware – take toys or games for the kids to play with as there is no playground area. There is also no coffee available so make sure to pick up some on the way.
While the kids should be able to play in the water, I have read warnings about sharks. I thought this a bit strange but have been unable to substantiate it. What I have read is that the water can get polluted after the heavy rains but when this happens there will be advisory signs.
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For some more back to nature spots, consider the following:
