The 10 Best Picnic Spots in Canberra That You'll Love

How to Prepare for A Picnic in Canberra?

There's no need for a massive food fest at a picnic. The best outings are the ones that happen out of the blue with good friends, tasty food, and lots of laughs. Lunch is only great if you can share it with people you care about.

When you have time on the weekends, going on lunch with family or friends outside in a picnic blanket is fun. Take a deep breath of fresh air and smell the earth. Stay in nature.

What do you need to get ready for a Canberra picnic? If you want your picnic to be comfortable, safe, and good for the environment, make sure you bring the following things and follow these tips.

How to Plan A Picnic in Canberra? 

Planning for a picnic can help you have a better time and keep you from getting too stressed out.

Picnic Site: When picking a picnic spot, look for a place in the country that is relatively quiet and has lovely views, like a forest park, a beach, a creek, the foothills, and so on. You can spend time with family and friends without being bothered in these places.

Picnic Time: You should plan your picnic for a day with clear weather. Make a backup plan just in case you are worried about the weather. Having your lunch somewhere covered or inside is a good idea as a backup. Also, pack based on the weather. If it rains, bring an umbrella or jacket. Bring extra clothes or blankets and a thermos for hot drinks to stay warm if it gets cooler.

Transportation Route: Determine how to get there ahead of time so that traffic runs smoothly with your lunch plans when you leave. Knowing where to park near the picnic area helps the lunch go more smoothly.

What to Pack for A Picnic in Canberra? 

There's not much you need to do to enjoy a meal outside; you can sit on the ground and eat. But some items can help you get the most out of your experience and be as comfortable as possible.

It is essential to have a basket that is the right size to carry things like food, drinks, and cutlery. Make sure it has enough space for everything to stay in its place. If you want lunch in the woods, consider getting a picnic backpack. Just below, you'll find more essentials you need for a picnic.

Figuring out how many people will be coming is the first step in preparing for lunch. Having up to two or three of you will make things easier. When planning an event for a big group, like a family, it's essential to think about how many adults and kids will be there so that there are activities and food that everyone will enjoy.

Aside from comfort, power is a must when going outside, especially when visiting national parks that are far away. Jackery Portable Power Stations have gotten good reviews for their increased power, mobility, and ease of use.  

People can bring Jackery Portable Power Station to picnics and power a portable fridge, speaker, fan, and grilling tools. It can also charge small electronics like smartphones, cameras, and drones. Read on to learn more about Jackery and the best spot in Canberra to picnic. 

Best Picnic Spots in Canberra: Top 10 Picnic Spots 

Now that it's calm and pleasant outside, Canberrans are having picnics in full force. So prepare your lunch basket and spend time with family and friends outside. These are some lovely places to have a picnic in Canberra.

(Image Source: iStock)

1. Commonwealth Park

Location: Commonwealth Ave, Canberra ACT 2601, Australia (Open in Google Maps)

Phone: 6272 2902

Website: Commonwealth Park   

Facilities: BBQ, Carpark, coach parking, lawn, gardens, picnic area, public toilet

There are many lovely places to picnic in Commonwealth Park, a big scenic park from the middle of town to the edge of Lake Burley Gryphon. The park is excellent for walking, running, biking, playing, and having a picnic because it has large fields, small sculpture gardens, ponds, and works of art. You can have lunch on the open grass, by the pond, among the sculptures and artwork, or in the shade of one of the many trees.

There is a big outdoor stage called Stage 88, a theatre, and a playground for kids in the park. The park is also home to the Regatta Point National Capital Exhibition and the nationally renowned Floriade Flower Festival, which happens every year. If you're planning a picnic in the spring, you will want to attend the festival because it takes place in the park's many blooming flowers.

2. Mount Ainslie

Location: Australian Capital Territory 2609, Australia (Open in Google Maps)

Phone: +61 132 281

Website: Mount Ainslie  

Facilities: Car park, coach park, pet friendly, picnic area, disabled access available

You have to go to Mount Ainslie for the best view of Canberra. Mount Ainslie is beautiful because it has stunning views and many ways to get to the top, such as by car, bike, or on foot. Mount Ainslie Lookout has some of the most stunning views of Canberra at sunrise and sunset.

Set out a picnic blanket at the top of the hill and enjoy the view of the mountains and Lake Burley Gryphon, one of Canberra's many national sites. But there are benches and places where you can sit and enjoy the views of Canberra. You can set up a picnic rug in a few grassy areas. 

3. Weston Park

Location: Weston Park Rd, Yarralumla ACT 2600, Australia (Open in Google Maps)

Phone: +61 132 281 

Website: Weston Park  

Facilities: BBQ, car park, picnic area, public toilet, disabled access available 

Weston Park runs along Lake Burley Gryphon and is only 10 minutes from the centre of Canberra. Weston Park is 40 hectares big and has a beach, a shallow pond, and a bike path. It's a great place to have a lunch. Get away from the noise and chaos of the Central Business District for a while by going to Weston Park.

Children will also enjoy the big, fun area with a water playground and a small pool. The tiny railway is one of the best things about Weston Park. Both kids and adults love it. The railway is well taken care of and runs gently through the park. People who ride the tiny train can enjoy the beauty of the area. In general, Weston Park is a calm place with lots of lovely sights and a pleasant atmosphere.

4. The National Arboretum Canberra

Location: Forest Dr, Australian Capital Territory 2611, Australia (Open in Google Maps)

Phone: +61 2 6207 8484

Website: The National Arboretum Canberra 

Facilities: BBQ, cafe, car park, coach park, gardens, lockers, picnic area, public toilet

The National Arboretum Canberra is a beautiful area of gardens and woods with stunning views, one-of-a-kind activities, and a top-notch entertainment and events centre. The National Arboretum Canberra is high above the town and has beautiful views of Canberra and the area.

There are woods around the botanical gardens, and you can take a walk to relax before having a picnic at the Himalayan Cedar Forest BBQ area. Visitors to The National Arboretum Canberra can also choose from several dining areas. There are giant 100-year-old cedars all around this little oasis, which gives it a lot of shade on hot days. You can have a fancy picnic in the forest after walking through the botanical grounds.

5. Tidbinbilla Nature Reserve

Location: Paddys River Rd, Australian Capital Territory 2620, Australia (Open in Google Maps)

Phone: +61 2 6207 7921

Website: Tidbinbilla Nature Reserve

Facilities: BBQ, car park, coach park, gift shop, picnic area, public toilet

The Tidbinbilla Nature Reserve is on the edge of Namadgi National Park, not far from Canberra (45 minutes). We recommend this spot for picnickers who love seeing wildlife and taking in beautiful natural scenery.

Many unique Australian animals live in Tidbinbilla Nature Reserve. These include koalas, kangaroos, birds, reptiles, platypuses, and wombats. Because there are many types of habitats here, such as grasslands, wetlands, wetland forests, and subalpine woods, there are 22 marked tracks that you can walk on to get some exercise. The walks range in length from 15 minutes to all-day hikes.

6. Pine Island Reserve

Location: Pine Island Rd, Greenway ACT 2900, Australia (Open in Google Maps)

Phone: +61 132 281 

Website: Pine Island Reserve 

Facilities: BBQ, canoe/kayak entry point, playground, picnic area, public toilet

Pine Island Reserve is a peaceful place on the Murrumbidgee River in the Tuggeranong district of Canberra. It's an excellent place for a picnic, swimming, fishing, kayaking, and enjoying the Australian wilderness. Pine Island Reserve has a small native black cedar plantation, Callitris endlicheri, on the banks of the Murrumbidgee River, which runs through the area. The reserve is called an island because the road can't reach the river during high water.

There are trees nearby where people can relax and a grill for cooking food in the picnic area. People can also hike along the 27-kilometer Murrumbidgee Discovery Track. Pine Island Reserve is great for watching birds during the warmer months. It is home to many different kinds of birds. 

7. John Knight Memorial Park

Location: Off Aikman Drive, Townsend Pl, Belconnen ACT 2617, Australia (Open in Google Maps)

Phone: +61 132 281

Website: John Knight Memorial Park  

Facilities: Basketball court, canoe/kayak access point, picnic area, fitness equipment

The John Knight Memorial Park, spanning 12 hectares, is a lesser-known and precious location situated on the eastern shoreline of Lake Ginninderra. It is part of Lake Ginninderra Park and can be reached by Aikman Drive. The park has expansive views, many lovely places to have lunch, and views of Lake Ginninderra. John Knight Memorial Park is different because it is out of the way and feels surrounded by nature. 

The park's lush green places and tall eucalyptus trees make it calm and friendly. It's a nice place to escape the noise and chaos of the city because the trails and picnic areas are well taken care of. There are fun things to do for people of all ages, including fitness paths in the woods. 

8. Canberra Nara Peace Park

Location: Yarralumla ACT 2600, Australia (Open in Google Maps)

Phone: +61 132 281

Website: Canberra Nara Peace Park  

Facilities: BBQ, car park, lookouts, picnic area, public toilet, disabled access available

Canberra Nara Peace Park is a quiet place to relax in Lennox Gardens, right on the water of Lake Burley Gryphon and only a short distance from the city centre. Some of the best places in Canberra to have lunch are here. The Black Mountains, the Brindabella Ranges, and the city centre can be seen.

The park has a gazebo, stone lanterns, and beautiful cherry trees, making it look like Japan. You can picnic on the grass or at one of the picnic tables. The Canberra Nara Peace Park has 24 cherry trees, four yew trees, 10 Japanese maple trees, 1 Japanese red pine tree, and a few Japanese lilies of the valley trees.

9. Canberra Beijing Garden

Location: Yarralumla ACT 2600, Australia (Open in Google Maps)

Phone: +61 132 281

Website: Canberra Beijing Garden 

Facilities: Picnic area, public toilet, disabled access available

This beautiful area was created in the style of the Qing Dynasty (1644–1912) Chinese royal gardens and symbolised wealth and class. It is part of the equally lovely Canberra Beijing Garden at Lennox Gardens on Lake Burley Gryphon. It has walkways and stairs that were built by hand by Chinese masons. It has traditional Chinese gates that welcome you, paths that wind through Chinese stonework, and a Chinese pavilion that lets you relax and enjoy the garden's peace. 

10. Haig Park

Location: Haig Park, Turner ACT 2612, Australia (Open in Google Maps)

Phone: 02 6242 8245

Website: Haig Park  

Facilities: Electric grills, exercise equipment, picnic tables, playground, restrooms

Haig Park is on the city's edge on 19 hectares of land in Bladen and Turner. It's a popular place for families and groups of friends to have picnics in Canberra. The park has rows of beautiful trees, such as Argyle apples, snow gums, desert ash trees, pines, and cedars. The trees were planted in 1921.

You should check out the Hegg Park Village Market if you're here on a Sunday. It has a lot of local flowers, food, and baked goods. Also, there's a lot of cool room outside where everyone can enjoy the sunshine all afternoon.

Jackery Portable Power Stations for Picnics in Canberra

After discussing the best spots to picnic in Canberra, we suggest you bring a portable power station. This "magic box" can charge your phones, cameras, and computers. 

Lithium batteries in Jackery Portable Power Stations provide a steady and dependable power source for picnic gear. By combining Jackery Solar Panels into a movable power station, the Jackery Solar Generator makes the best use of solar energy.

A portable power station can be charged in several different ways. Connecting solar panels and power plants is one way to use solar energy. The power station can also be charged with an AC adapter or a garage. Bring the Jackery Explorer 500 and 300 Plus with you on your picnics. 

Jackery Explorer 500 Portable Power Station

This Jackery Explorer 500 power station is made to withstand harsh weather thanks to its advanced temperature monitors and robust construction that can work in hot and cold conditions. Because it lasts long, it's an excellent choice for picnics and other outdoor activities.

The Jackery Explorer 500 has a 518Wh capacity and a 500W inverter that can handle surges up to 1000W. It can charge multiple appliances simultaneously, making it a flexible power option for many situations. It can charge a portable cooler for 1.3 hours and a portable fan for 11 hours, which is excellent for having a picnic.

It is also designed for convenience, featuring a portable and light design that makes it easy to carry and use wherever power is needed. It works quietly at 37.9dB, giving you a power option that won't bother you while you're away. With three charging options, the power station gives you choices about how to charge it: from solar panels, a wall outlet, or a garage.

Product	Jackery Explorer 500 Portable Power Station
Image
Capacity	518Wh (21.6V/24Ah)
Life Cycle	800 cycles to 80%+ capacity
Battery Cell	NMC battery
Dimension	24.2x19.3x30cm
Recharging Methods	Explorer 500 + SolarSaga 100W: 9.5H; AC Adapter: 7.5H; 12V Car Adapter: 7.5H
Output Ports	1*AC Output: 240V, 500W (peak 1000W); 1*DC Output: 12V⎓7A; 3*USB-A: 5V⎓2.4A; 1*Carport: 12V⎓10A
Working Hours	Portable Cooler (350W): 1.3H; Phone (10W): 44H; Portable Speaker (60W): 7.4H; Camera (150W): 2.9H; Drone (90W): 4.9H; Portable Fan (40W): 11H

Jackery Explorer 300 Plus Portable Power Station

The Jackery Explorer 300 Plus portable power station can be used for charging outside because it has a 288Wh capacity, a 300W power output, two PD ports that can each output up to 100W, multiple charging choices, and rapid charging for multiple devices simultaneously.

A 150W camera can be used for 1.6 hours, and a 60W compact speaker can be used for 4 hours. Since it only weighs 3.75 kilogrammes, the Jackery Explorer 300 Plus is easy to pack in a picnic box.

The Jackery Explorer 300 Plus protects all your electrical equipment by providing a steady voltage and pure sine wave. It embeds a Lithium Iron Phosphate ( LiFePO4) battery that lasts ten years. The innovative ChargeShield technology and continuous power source keep equipment from getting damaged.

Product	Jackery Explorer 300 Plus Portable Power Station
Image
Capacity	288Wh (12.8V/22.5Ah)
Life Cycle	3000 cycles to 80%+ capacity
Battery Cell	LiFePO4 battery
Dimension	16.7x15.5x23cm
Recharging Methods	Explorer 300 Plus + SolarSaga 80W: 6.3H; AC Adapter: 2H; 12V Car Adapter: 5.5H
Output Ports	1*AC Output: 230V, 50Hz, 300W Rated, 600W Surge Peak; 2*USB-C: 100W Max, 5V⎓3A (5V, 9V, 15V, 12V, 20V up to 5A); 1*Carport: 12V⎓10A
Working Hours	Portable Cooler (350W): 0.7H; Phone (10W): 24H; Portable Speaker (60W): 4H; Camera (150W): 1.6H; Drone (90W): 2.7H; Portable Fan (40W): 6H

How to Successfully Hold A Picnic in Canberra?

After planning everything, things can still go wrong on a trip. Remember that you want to enjoy your time outside, so don't let small things get in the way. Here is a list of things you should do in Canberra for a great picnic.

At a picnic, safety is the most important thing. Avoid going near places that could be dangerous, like water, if you have kids with you. That way, they won't be in danger if they play with water.

Fire safety is paramount when making food outside, like grilling. Before you go, You should know that flames are prohibited in some places.

Pay attention to sunscreen when it's hot outside; if you use it right, you can avoid getting sunburnt. Make sure you drink a lot of water because it is essential for the body to do all its jobs

When travelling in the wild, you can avoid getting bitten by mosquitoes by wearing light-coloured clothes and putting on or spraying some bug repellent. Also, remember to bring some medicine for injuries and heat stroke.

Before going to the picnic area, ensure you know and follow the rules, such as whether pets are allowed. It would help if you also learned about the picnic area's amenities, like whether it has picnic tables or parking lots.

Final Thoughts

To sum up, the best picnics are a mix of careful planning and a little fun. Picking a beautiful spot and making tasty food are essential to planning the perfect lunch. 

This article should make you want to get your bags ready, find the perfect spot for a picnic in Canberra, and enjoy the easy pleasures of having a picnic. Remember to bring a Jackery Portable Power Station with you on your trip so that you can charge your devices.