Kershaw Gardens

Kershaw Gardens has been described as Rockhampton’s big back yard for all people to enjoy.

These magnificent gardens stretch one kilometre parallel to the Bruce Highway and provide an attractive, peaceful setting within North Rockhampton.

Enjoy the spacious parklands with walking tracks, play areas for the kids and spectacular photo opportunities including a magnificent waterfall. 

Northern Precinct

Stop for a picnic by the beautiful waterfall that lies within the northern section of the Gardens then take a stroll through the People’s Forest, Grevillea Hill and the Wetlands. This walking circuit is ideal for people looking for a easy paced, flat walk to break up the day. 

Central Precinct

This is THE PLACE to stop if you have children!

Since 1988, the Gardens has undertaken a number of significant changes, but none more so than the redevelopment of the Central section which was finalised in the winter 2018. Built for families, parties, small events and outdoor activities the central section of the Kershaw Gardens is a must do. Don't miss:

• Wyatt's Wonder Web: Originally designed for New York’s Central Park, Wyatt’s Wonder Web includes five levels of play for kids and adults too. Standing at nine metres high, climb through various obstacles including climbing ropes, ladders, tunnels, three slides and swinging hammocks on the top level. This iconic play area is named in honour of Tom Wyatt, a former Curator, Parks Director and Councillor who designed and developed Kershaw Gardens. Accessibility of the Wyatt's Wonder Web will vary from child to child depending on their individual circumstances.

• Fitzroy River water play area - Prepared to get your toes wet in the 200mm deep meandering water course was designed to represent the flow of water through the Fitzroy River from Riverslea out to the sea. It also comes complete with its very own barrage! Plenty of vantage points around the water play area to watch the kids from. 

You can also get peddling on the famous monorail, hold tight as you launch from the flying fox and keep your balance as you make your way over the timber play towers. And when you are ready for some food and socializing, use the free BBQ to cook up a storm, book into your local activities using the free Wi-Fi, enjoy good company under the shaded buildings. Of course, there is a new amenities building to use while you spend your day having fun!

The new Kershaw playground has a number of all-abilities features including an all abilities harness for the 30 metre double flying fox, an omnispinner and a birds nest swing. There are also a range of sensory experiences (like the Stuart Fragrant Garden) and accessible pathways to get you there.

Southern Precinct

Kershaw Gardens sustained significant damage as a result of Tropical Cyclone Marcia in February 2015. Major works was completed on the Northern and Central sections; however the Southern section, the most affected by the effects of tree fall and exposed landfill, will remain closed indefinitely.

Parking

Use your maps to locate the following free car parks located on the following streets:

• High Street
• Knight Street
• Charles Street
• Dowling Street (locked at 6pm)

Camping at Kershaw Gardens

Here at Rockhampton Regional Council we are pleased to announce that the Kershaw Gardens free camping site has now reopened and we appreciate your patience during these unprecedented times. As a reminder the rules for overnight camping at High Street carpark within Kershaw Gardens are:

• Your vehicle must allow you to wholly contain and store

    - All 'Grey Water' you generate

    - All 'Black Water' you generate

     - All rubbish you generate 

• A maximum of 35 self-contained vehicles at any given time
• A maximum of 2 nights or 48 hours
• Do not block roads or paths
• Do not discharge waste water onto grounds
• Pets must be supervised and on a leash at all times

Generator use 8:00am to 7:00pm only

Self-contained vehicle
The vehicle must have installed and/or carry the necessary fit for purpose specifically manufactured equipment. 
This includes:

1. Water supply
2. Sink/shower
3. Grey water
4. Toilet
5. Rubbish

Note: Definition from the Caravan and Motorhome Club of Australia Limited - CMCA Self Contained Vehicle (SCV) Policy 
Rockhampton Region Planning Scheme (2015) - Version 2.1 - Definitions