4 nature events being held in Adelaide national parks to celebrate our National Park City

National Park City is a global movement to create cities worldwide where people and nature are better connected.

The concept originated in the UK in 2019, with London being coined the first National Park City.

Last year Adelaide was named the world’s 2^ndNational Park City, and Australia’s 1^st, with people across Adelaide taking action every day to make the city greener, make their lives healthier, and promote a better connection with nature.

This June, events are being held all across metropolitan Adelaide to celebrate Adelaide becoming a National Park City.

We’ve scoured the program and found these 4 events and activities held in our parks that will bring you up-close and personal with our environment (make sure you check the program for others too!):

1. Glenthorne National Park Community Planting Day

It’s planting season again!

Come along to plant native species and contribute to the ecological restoration of Glenthorne National Park-Ityamaiitpinna Yarta in Adelaide’s southern suburbs this winter.

This is your opportunity to roll-up your sleeves and get out into the fresh air and be part of the ecological restoration of one of South Australia’s newest national parks.

All equipment will be provided, but make sure you dress appropriately for the weather, bring your own sunscreen, water and a hat, and wear closed toe-shoes. Gloves can be supplied, but bring your own if you have some.

Don’t miss your chance to be part of creating this new nature destination in Adelaide’s south.

Date: Sunday 19 June, 10 am to 1 pm

Cost: Free

For more information and to register your spot

2. Adelaide Dolphin Sanctuary Kayak Tour

The Adelaide Dolphin Sanctuary is one of the gems of metropolitan Adelaide.

Located only 20 minutes from Adelaide, this marine park is home to about 30 resident bottlenose dolphins, with another 400 transient dolphins that visit at various times. These wild dolphins come here to feed, play, socialise and nurse their calves.

The perfect way to discover the sanctuary is on a kayak tour. Join Dolphin Sanctuary Tours on a paddle through the shipwreck-laden waters and count how many river dolphins you see along the way.

You’ll learn plenty of interesting facts about marine mammals and wildlife, and you don’t need any prior kayaking experience. No doubt it’ll be a great day to be had by all!

Date: Throughout June

Cost: From $50 (To receive the special price, use promo code "ANPC" when booking online.)

Visit the website for more information and to book your spot

3. Nature Journaling in Anstey Hill Recreation Park

Come along to a nature journaling workshop at Anstey Hill Recreation Park in Adelaide’s north-eastern suburbs.

Journaling is a great way to enjoy the park, helping you view it with fresh eyes.

As part of this hour-and-a-half session, you’ll receive a kit to get you started plus some ideas to help get your creative juices flowing.

The friendly facilitator will guide you through some easy drawing and writing exercises to help you create a journal of your own. You’ll get plenty of tips along the way for future nature journaling and nature visits.

This workshop aims to inspire you to journal anywhere and anytime you are out in nature – helping you to appreciate it even more.

The workshop will include a short easy walk (less than 1 km) so that you’re immersed in the park, so make sure you wear comfy shoes.

Date: Saturday 11 June, 12:30 pm to 2 pm and 2:30 pm to 4 pm

Cost: Free

Visit the website for more information and to register your spot

4. Drawing nature with Gilbert Dashorst

Capture the beautiful surrounds of Aldinga Conservation Park in Adelaide’s south through drawing, under the guidance of world-renowned natural history illustrator Gilbert Dashorst.

Gilbert specialises in the field of botany and spent 30 years at the State Herbarium/Botanic Gardens of SA as their scientific illustrator. One of his best known works is the beautiful and informative book ‘Plants of the Adelaide Plains and Hills'.

Combine the joy of drawing with pencils and the inspiration of Aldinga Conservation Park to create your own masterpiece. Your artwork will draw on various aspects of nature – from rocks, animals, birds, delicate plants and trees, to the beautiful landscape in front of you.

You’ll be supplied with a drawing board, paper and pencils, but you are welcome to bring your own art supplies – but keep in mind if you bring oil paints they will take a long time to dry.

Date: Monday 13 June, 10:30 am to 12pm and 1 pm to 2:30 pm

Cost: Free

Visit the website for more information and to register your spot

Looking for more ways to connect with nature in South Australia? Read about the top spots for whale watching in SA, or check out these winter experiences in national parks.