Nature calls: our top free picks for kids this October

We’ve picked out some highlights happening in our parks as part of Nature Festival to help you plan your holidays – and there are plenty more in the full program to explore too.

Near Adelaide...

1. It’s a Bird it’s a Plane: Morialta Resource Centre 

What: Join Green Adelaide ecologist Dr Julie Schofield for a hands-on workshop exploring the birds of Adelaide and how they take flight. Learn how different birds fly, then test your knowledge by creating paper planes inspired by their flight styles. Will your plane soar like a raptor or glide like a gull? Perfect for curious kids, budding naturalists and anyone who loves the wonder of flight.

When: Saturday 27 September

Ages: Designed for children aged 6+

Ticket: For more info and to secure your ticket click here. 

2. Mindful, Sensory-Friendly Nature Photo Hunt for Kids & Families: Glenthorne National Park – Ityamaiitpinna Yarta

What: Enjoy a relaxed, sensory-friendly photo treasure hunt in nature. With gentle prompts and plenty of time to explore, kids can slow down, notice the little details, and capture their discoveries with a camera or phone (with parent help). Created by a neurodivergent mum for neurodivergent kids and families, this experience is inclusive, calming and fun for all.

When: Monday 6 October

Ages: Designed for children aged 3-8 years old (but any age is welcomed)

Ticket:  For more info and to secure your ticket click here. 

3. Winged Wonders of Adelaide: Cleland Wildlife Park

What: Winged Wonders is a playful and interactive live show for children and their families. Step into the flow of nature with Lucy and her puppet pals Biddi Blue and Flicka Firetail on a fun, music-filled journey through the world of native butterflies and woodland birds. With catchy songs, dance-alongs, and hands-on creativity, kids learn how these winged wonders help our environment, and how you can help too!

When: Saturday 11 October

Ages: Designed for children aged 3-8, and their families

Please note this is a free event, but tickets to the show do not provide entry into Cleland Wildlife Park. 

Ticket: For more info and to secure your ticket click here. 

Regional picks...

4. Ranger-guided Kayaking Tour of Yangie Bay Sanctuary Zone: Coffin Bay National Park 

What: Enjoy a leisurely kayak through the beautiful Yangie Bay Sanctuary Zone in Coffin Bay National Park, learning about the secret life of the critters who call this place home. Everything will be supplied for the day, including kayaks, thanks to Xtreme Kites and Paddle!

When: Monday 29 September

Ages: Recommended for children aged 6+ (children can ride in the kayak with their parents)

Ticket: For more info and to secure your ticket click here. 

5. Caring for Wittelbee Community Day: Wittelbee Conservation Park 

What: Join us for a feel-good day of giving back to nature and connecting with community with a free BBQ and fresh damper, tree planting, and beach clean-up. With fun activities for all ages, this is a day to come together, make a difference, and celebrate everything we love about Wittelbee. Bring your friends, family, and community spirit – let’s care for Country, together!

When: Saturday 11 October

Ages: Recommended for children 5+

Ticket: For more info and to secure your ticket click here. 

Park of the Month

Throughout October, the Nature Festival is being celebrated as the National Parks and Wildlife Service's Park of the Month. There are lots of events and activities to get involved in, find them here!