Belair National Park
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Set in beautiful natural bushland, Belair National Park is just 25 minutes from Adelaide city centre. It is the ideal place to get active in the great outdoors. There are woodlands and lakes to explore, walking and mountain biking trails to suit all levels of fitness, plus tennis courts and cricket pitches available for hire.
This is South Australia’s oldest national park, and is home to Old Government House – a significant heritage building. Also in the park is State Flora, the oldest plant nursery in South Australia and still going strong today. The park remains one of the few relatively undisturbed areas of native vegetation in the Adelaide Hills region, making it an important refuge for native plants and animals.
Please be aware that there are no bins within the park, so be prepared to take all rubbish (including dog-poo bags) home with you..
Hotter months, Daylight Saving Time: 8:00 am — 9:00 pm (Closed on Christmas Day)
Colder months, standard time: 8:00 am — 7:00 pm
Closures and safety
This park is closed on days of Catastrophic Fire Danger and may also be closed on days of Extreme Fire Danger.
You can determine the current fire danger rating by checking the Fire Ban District map on the CFS website.
Check the CFS website or call the CFS Bushfire Information Hotline 1800 362 361 for:
- Information on fire bans and current fire conditions
- Current CFS warnings and incidents
- Information on what to do in the event of a fire.
Listen to your local area radio station for the latest updates and information on fire safety.
Information Office
Mon — Fri: 8:30 am — 4:30 pm
Weekends and public holidays: 9:00 am — 4:30 pm
Old Government House buildings
Open the first and third Sunday of each month and public holidays, from 1 – 4 pm. Closed Christmas Day and Good Friday.
State Flora Nursery in Belair National Park
Mon — Fri: 9:00 am — 5:00 pm
Weekends and public holidays: 10:00 am — 4:00 pm
The nursery is closed Good Friday, Christmas Day, New Year’s Day and on days of Catastrophic Fire Danger (Mount Lofty Ranges Fire Ban District).
Belair Kiosk at the Adventure Playground
Open weekends, public holidays and school holidays: 10:30 am — 3:30 pm
(times listed are approximate and are weather dependent)
Visitor information, bookings and park management:
Belair National Park Information Office
Phone: (+61 8) 8278 5477
Email: BelairNationalPark@sa.gov.au
Emergency contacts:
Medical, fire (including bushfire) and police emergency situations
Phone: Triple Zero (000)
Police Assistance
Phone: 131 444 for non-urgent police assistance
National Parks and Wildlife Service SA – Emergency After Hours Duty Officer (voice messages only, text messages are unavailable to be received)
Phone: 0427 556 676
Injured wildlife:
Within the park
Please contact Belair National Park Information Office on (08) 8278 5477 or the Regional Duty Officer on 0427 556 676.
Outside of the park
Please contact a local wildlife rescue group
After hours regional duty officer: 0427 556 676
In the warmer months, the park is a perfect spot for family picnics, barbecues and riding, with spring being the perfect time to visit if you love orchids and other wildflowers. Winter is the best time to view the waterfalls and attempt the more challenging hikes, it is also a good time of year for fungi. Visit mornings and evenings for the best chance to view most wildlife. For sporting activities, Belair National Park is great at any time of year.
The park is located 13km south east of Adelaide. Access is via Upper Sturt Road, Belair.
If you’re in your own vehicle, you can find this park on the map.
There is also public transport to this park from the Adelaide city centre. Bikes can be carried on trains, but restrictions apply. Please refer to Adelaide Metro website for further details.
Parks are for all to enjoy, we would love to hear from you about your experience in nature. You can share your comments, pictures and videos with us and others by tagging @NationalParksSA on Facebook, Instagram or email us.
Social Scripts
National Parks and Wildlife Service South Australia have created social scripts to help people on the Autism Spectrum visit parks. These social scripts may be able to assist with lessening anxiety and stress when individuals are visiting a new place. The scripts below include specific and illustrated information about what an autistic person can expect when visiting one of South Australia’s national parks.
Visit to Belair National Park — Social Script
Adventure Playground — Social Script
Heritage Tree Walk — Social Script
Facilities
Parking
There are many accessible parking spaces in Belair National Park. We are currently working on getting accessible facilities added to all of our park maps for Belair National Park. See the Belair National Park — Accessibility map for locations of facilities in the main entrance area. For information about facilities in other areas of the park, please ask for facility locations at the visitor information centre at the entrance to the park.
Accessible car parks are available at following locations (number available)
- Belair National Park Information Office (1)
- Corner of entry and exit road — near information centre (1)
- Main tennis court area — near country club (1)
- Gums Oval — western side (1)
- Pines Picnic Area 1 (1)
- Government Farm Picnic Area 1 (1)
- Government Farm Picnic Area 2
- Gold Escort Picnic Ground — provides access to Adventure Playground (1)
- Walnut Paddock — provides access to Adventure Playground (1)
- Joseph Fisher Picnic Area (2)
- Karka Pavilion (2)
Toilets
There are many accessible toilets in Belair National Park. We are currently working on getting accessible facilities added to all of our park maps for Belair National Park. See the Belair National Park — Accessibility map for locations of facilities in the main entrance area. For information about facilities in other areas of the park, please ask for facility locations at the visitor information centre at the entrance to the park.
Accessible toilets are available at following locations (number available)
- Main Oval (1)
- Main tennis court area — near country club (1)
- Gums Oval — western side (1)
- Pines Picnic Area 1 (1)
- Government Farm Picnic Area 2
- Adventure Playground (2)
- Willows Picnic Area (1)
- Joseph Fisher Picnic Area (2)
- Karka Pavilion (1 — right hand opening)
- Playford Lake (1)
- Old Government House and State Flora Nursery (1)
Accessibility trike
Allowing increased access to explore extensive trail networks. The accessibility trike is available, free to hire, from Belair National Park. The MT Push is an all-terrain assisted wheelchair, offering comfort, safety and ease of use. The push handle, operated by the rider’s buddy, controls the steering and brakes. Mountain bike-style tyres and air suspension provide a comfy ride and hydraulic disc brakes give excellent all-weather control.
Pick-up from the Belair Information Office, 9am – 4:30pm every day. Please note the MT Push is only to be used within Belair National Park. Upon hire a valid Driver’s License or Proof of Age Card is required and a conditions of use form must be completed. A companion buddy will be required to assist in pushing the all-terrain trike, book now.
See and do
Trails
Wood Duck Walk (1km)
The trail starts at the car park and picnic area at Playford Lake. The majority of the trail is bitumen with a few short sections of hard packed gravel. In places the edge of the bitumen path has broken away and there are occasional ripples in the surface due to tree roots under the surface. Between the lake and the car park area the trail has a short section of broken bitumen with a small lip that may require assistance. The trail is best to be completed in a clockwise direction.
Lorikeet Loop Walk (3km)
It is recommended to start the walk from Old Government House and should be done in an anti-clockwise direction. The trail is a mix of hard packed gravel surface and bitumen. Some assistance may be required on the climb back to Old Government House from the adventure playground.
Dogs on a lead are also welcome.
An important update on accessibility at Playford Lake:
The Playford Lake Trail meets Disability Discrimination Act 1992 (DDA) standards and is protected by a loose material overlay during its curing period.
Contractors will return in January 2025 to finalise the surface. DEW will monitor the trail as part of regular audits to ensure accessibility.
Picnic areas
Enjoy an open-air lunch at the accessible picnic ground at Playford Lake and at the far end of the Pines Picnic Area 1.
Tennis courts
Tennis courts 1, 2, 32 and 33 are accessible. Book and pay for your tennis court online before you arrive.
Assistance dogs are permitted in most public places and are therefore welcome in South Australia’s parks and reserves. Assistance dogs must be appropriately restrained on a lead and remain under your effective control at all times while in a park or reserve.
As per the dogs in parks and reserves policy, if the dog is not an accredited assistance dog, they must be trained to assist a person with a disability to alleviate that disability and meet standards of hygiene and behaviour appropriate for a dog in a public place. However, refusal may be given if the person with the disability is unable to produce evidence the dog is an assistance dog with the appropriate training.
Before taking your assistance dog into a park that does not normally allow dogs, it is highly recommended that you contact us so we can provide you with the latest information on any potential hazards within specific parks that may affect your dog. Please contact the park via the contact details provided under the contact tab or contact the visitor service centre via email or on Facebook.
Dogs are welcome in this park.
Please ensure you:
- Keep your dog under control and on a lead no more than two metres in length.
- Stick to designated walking trails.
- Bring disposable bags to clean up your dog’s faeces (please be aware there are no bins in national parks).
Discover other parks you can walk your dog in on our find a park tool or read 12 dog-friendly walks in Adelaide Parks by Good Living for inspiration.
Free facilities
You can find many informal picnic areas tucked away off the sides of roads and nestled in surrounding bushland. There is no fee to use these. There are also free barbecues and picnic tables next to the Adventure Playground, at Playford Lake alongside the very popular Wood Duck Walk and between Willows and the Karka Pavilion.
Hireable facilities
Tennis courts, ovals, and pavilions (popular for school sporting events, excursions, weddings and corporate events) are available for hire online. The gas barbecues and formal picnic areas around the park can also be hired online.
Hireable facilities can be booked up to 12 months in advance. Popular facilities such as tennis courts adjacent to the playground are often booked up to six months in advance. To avoid missing out on the facilities you would like to hire, ensure you book in advance if you are planning a large group gathering.
Ovals
Main oval
Full size oval with cricket pitch and Australian Rules Football goals. Facilities include BBQ, toilets (including one accessible toilet), car parking for 70 vehicles and capacity up to 200 people on grassed area.
Gums Oval 1 (half oval)
Half oval with two BBQ shelters that have space for up to 30 people under shelter. Grassed area has capacity for up to 150 people. Facilities include picnic tables and bench seating in shelter, accessible toilets and car parking (including one accessible park) for 55 vehicles. It can be hired in conjunction with Gums Oval 2.
Gums Oval 2 (half oval)
Half oval with two BBQ shelters that have space for up to 40 people under shelter. Grassed area has capacity for up to 150 people. Facilities include picnic tables and bench seating in shelter and car parking for 65 vehicles. It can be hired in conjunction with Gums Oval 1.
Gums Oval (full oval)
Full oval with cricket pitch and Australian Rules Football goals. Four BBQ shelters that have space for up to 70 people under shelter. Grassed area has capacity for up to 200 people. Facilities include picnic tables and bench seating in shelter and car parking for 120 vehicles.
Pavilions
Karka pavilion
Fully enclosed heritage pavilion with large open grassed area. Pavilion has capacity for 100 people inside and 200 people on grassed area. Facilities include toilets (with two accessible toilets), car parking for 42 vehicles (two accessible parks), four trestle tables, some bench seating plus access to water and power.
Main pavilion
Large enclosed heritage pavilion located on the eastern side of the Main Oval. Pavilion has capacity for 100 people inside. Facilities include toilets (with one accessible toilet), car parking for 10 vehicles, four trestle tables, some bench seating plus access to water and power. Can be hired in conjunction with the Main Oval.
Open space picnic areas
Gold Escort Picnic Ground
Grassed area with a large double shelter. The double shelter has capacity for up to 40 people. Facilities include two BBQs, two picnic tables with bench seating, access to bore water and car parking for 20 vehicles. Toilets (including two accessible toilets) are located near the Adventure Playground approximately 150 metres away.
Government Farm Area 1 Picnic Ground
Grassed area with a large double shelter. Bookings include the hire of tennis courts 57 and 58. The shelter has capacity for up to 40 people. Facilities include two BBQs, two picnic tables with bench seating, access to bore water and car parking for 25 vehicles (including one accessible car park). There is an additional nine car parks available adjacent to courts 57 and 58. Toilets are located approximately 200 metres away.
Government Farm Area 2 Picnic Ground
Grassed area with a large shelter. The shelter has capacity for up to 30 people. Facilities include two BBQs, one picnic table with bench seating, access to bore water and car parking for 28 vehicles (including one accessible car park). Toilets (including one accessible toilets) are located approximately 75 metres away.
Joseph Fisher Picnic Ground
Grassed area with a large shelter. The shelter has capacity for up to 30 people and the grassed area has capacity for 50+ people. Facilities include two BBQs, access to bore water and car parking for 22 vehicles (including two accessible carparks). Toilets (including two accessible toilets) are approximately 50 metres away.
Karka Picnic Ground
Large open grassed area with capacity for 100+ people. Car parking is available for 12 vehicles. Toilets (including two accessible toilets) are located approximately 150 metres away.
Long Gully Picnic Ground
Large open grassed area with capacity for 100+ people. Car parking is available for 10 vehicles. Toilets are located approximately 150 metres away.
Pines Area 1 Picnic Ground
Grassed area with a large shelter. The shelter has capacity for up to 30 people. Facilities include two BBQs, one picnic table with bench seating, access to bore water and car parking for 11 vehicles (including one accessible car park). Toilets (including one accessible toilet) are approximately 20 metres away.
Pines Area 2 Picnic Ground
Grassed area with a large double shelter. The shelter has capacity for up to 40 people. Facilities include two BBQs, two picnic tables with bench seating, access to bore water and car parking for 10 vehicles. Toilets (including one accessible toilet) are located at Pines Area 1 Picnic Area, approximately 100 metres away.
Walnut Paddock Picnic Ground
Grassed area with a large shelter. The shelter has capacity for up to 30 people. Facilities include two BBQs, one picnic table with bench seating, access to bore water and car parking for 17 vehicles (including one accessible car park). Toilets are located approximately 250 metres away.
Willows Picnic Ground
Large open grassed area with small heritage shelter. The grassed area has capacity for 150+ people. Facilities include two BBQs, fixed bench seating in shelter and car parking for 28 vehicles. Toilets (including one accessible toilet) are located approximately 100 metres away.
Old Government House
The Friends of Old Government House often offer afternoon tea (coffee, tea and scones) for $5 during opening hours (open the first and third Sunday of each month and public holidays, from 1 – 4 pm).
The Kiosk
The Kiosk at the adventure playground is open on weekends, public holidays and school holidays. Open during business hours.
The Goat Shed
Come and pick up a bike, and grab a coffee and cake to go!
Opening hours and location.
Please note, to comply with the Emergency Services Act, on days of total fire ban, fixed BBQ’s will be turned off and portable BBQ’s will not be permitted. Some hireable picnic grounds may be used on total fire bans. Wood or coal BBQ’s are not allowed at any time throughout the year.
Call the Information Office between 9.30 am and 4.30 pm on weekdays for more information.
Phone: (+61 8) 8278 8279
- Important: Collection of firewood within National Parks is prohibited.
- Mobile phone coverage can be patchy and unreliable in this park, especially if you are in low-lying areas.
- 10 things to see and do at Belair National Park from the Good Living Blog.
- Go behind the scenes and discover a Insiders Guide to Belair National Park.
- Check out these 5 treasures in Belair National Park from the Good Living Blog.
- Explore what other nature and outdoor activities are available in this area on the South Australia Tourism website.
- Parks management plans
- Trails SA
- SA Marine Parks
Former Golf Course Site: The Department for Environment and Water continues planning works to integrate the former golf course into the wider reserve to ensure all new proposals comply with the management plan and enhance the visitor experience. Find out more.
Our rangers love having schools in the park, learning in nature. While we update our online information and resources to assist teachers and other learning providers, we suggest visiting the Green Adelaide nature education pages for resources. Additionally, please contact the park office to book one of our facilities for your next school excursion.
Belair National Park — a view from above
Take a virtual tour of this park
See what Belair National Park has to offer with beautiful autumn foliage, tennis courts, oval facilities, Old Government House and more available to explore!
Flora and fauna species lists
To download flora (plants) and fauna (animals) species lists for this park, use the ‘Create Simple Species List’ tab under ‘Flora Tools’ or ‘Fauna Tools’ in NatureMaps.
Phytophthora (fy-TOFF-thora), otherwise known as root-rot fungus, is killing our native plants and threatens the survival of animals depending on plants for food and shelter.
This introduced fungus can be found in plant roots, soil and water. Help stop the spread by using hygiene stations, staying on tracks and trails and by complying with all Phytophthora management signs.
The Kaurna Aboriginal people have lived in the area for thousands of generations. The Kaurna people referred to the area now known as Belair as Piradli, which means ‘baldness’. This was in reference to the area’s appearance when looking south from the Adelaide Plains – ‘bald like the moon’. The description provides an insight into the fire stick farming activities of the Kaurna people.
Aboriginal peoples have occupied, enjoyed and managed the lands and waters of this State for thousands of generations. For Aboriginal first nations, creation ancestors laid down the laws of the Country and bestowed a range of customary rights and obligations to the many Aboriginal Nations across our state.
There are many places across the State that have great spiritual significance to Aboriginal first nations. At some of these places Aboriginal cultural protocols, such as restricted access, are promoted and visitors are asked to respect the wishes of Traditional Owners.
In places where protocols are not promoted visitors are asked to show respect by not touching or removing anything, and make sure you take all your rubbish with you when you leave.
Aboriginal peoples continue to play an active role in caring for their Country, including in parks across South Australia.
Belair National Park has important natural, cultural, historical and recreational values and is the birthplace of the national parks system in South Australia.
The first European people known to have visited the Belair area were crewmen from the ship Coromandel in 1837. Governor Gawler later set this land aside as a government farm in 1840 upon which sick horses and bullocks could be agisted. A few years later the government gained legal title to the farm and proceeded to grow hay and take care of stock belonging to the survey and police departments.
Between 1849 and 1852, the Commissioner of Police took charge of the farm and used it for horses employed in the Gold Escort and other police services.
In the early 1880s, an attempt to subdivide the land was rejected and a bill was passed stating the farm could not be sold. While the farm could not be sold, there were no restrictions on what the land could be used for, so, in 1886, 202 hectares were handed over to the Woods and Forest Department as a forest reserve.
Dedicated in 1891, Belair became the first national park to be established in South Australia and the second national park in Australia. In 1892, the first board of commissioners was appointed.
By the 1920s, after pressure from groups such as the Native Fauna and Flora Protection Committee, policies changed in regards to the conservation of native plants and animals in the park. As a result, the last large scale planting of non-Australian species in the park occurred in 1922 — 700 Japanese cherries were planted on six hectares of land in Sparkes Gully — and in 1923 it was decided all future plantings were to be native to the state.
By 1929, the now well-established Belair National Park had developed 42 tennis courts, several pavilions and ovals and a well-developed road network. This was to accommodate the increasing number of visitors and play an important social function during and after the years of the Great Depression. The park’s facilities were also used for military camps during the Second World War.
In 1934, trees were cleared to make way for a nine hole golf course which was built as a means to raise revenue for the park. This course was later extended to an 18 hole golf course in 1941.
In 1972, the National Parks Commission was terminated and control of the park was passed to the National Parks and Wildlife Service. Belair Recreation Park was gazetted in 1972 and was re-dedicated to Belair National Park in 1991.
Ranger tips: Belair National Park
Further inspiration:
- Exploring Old Government House on a guided tour.
- Finding Amphitheatre Rock, a large rocky overhang located near the south-eastern corner of the park.
- Enjoying the magnificent views of the park and surrounding hills as you walk along Jubilee Drive.
- Riding your horse along the Tom Roberts Trail.
- Bushwalking on the marked trails throughout the park.
- Letting the kids loose in the adventure playground (equipment includes tunnels and a wooden fort).
- Hiring a sports oval in the western section of the park and gathering everyone you know for a giant game of cricket. The ovals are close to shelters, barbecues and toilets.
Walks in the parks range from easy walks to more challenging hikes. While you’re bushwalking in the park, you’ll be rewarded with magnificent views of native woodlands, lakes and seasonal waterfalls.
Bushwalking is a fantastic way to connect with nature, keep fit and spend time with family and friends. South Australia’s national parks feature a range of trails that let you experience a diversity of landscapes.
Walking trails in our parks are graded according to the Australian Walking Track Grading System which is a national standard to help you work out if a walk will suit your level of fitness and experience.
Grade 2 — No bushwalking experience required
- Wood Duck Walk (30 mins return, 1km)
Navigate this trail using Google Street View
This pleasant walk around Playford Lake is popular with young children, people with limited mobility and those who want to experience the park’s wildlife.
The trail starts at Playford Lake.
- Lorikeet Loop Walk (1 hr 25 mins return, 3.5km)
Navigate this trail using Google Street View
Wind your way past Old Government House and the State Flora Nursery, then stop for a rest at the playground – an ideal spot for family groups. Majestic old red and blue gums are the perfect habitat for lorikeets, rosellas and koalas. The wide gravelled surface is suitable for most abilities, and for strollers.
The trail starts at the Information Office.
- Heritage Tree Walk (20 mins, 1km)
Navigate this trail using Google Street View
This easy walk winds its way around prominent heritage trees such as oak, poplar, sequoia, cork oak, pine and horse chestnut. These species were planted in the late 1890s to the 1920s to ‘improve the attractiveness’ of the park. They are reminders of the early heritage of Belair. Look for historic trees, including pines, oaks and the towering sequoias.
- RSL Walk (20 mins, 1km)
Navigate this trail using Google Street View
The spring fed creek that flows through Sparkes Gully supports important perched swamp vegetation found nowhere else in the park. This is a tranquil location that is ideal for quiet reflection and bird watching.
A cool and shady spot during summer, ornamental trees provide a display of colourful foliage during autumn.
Discover the remnants of the historic Japanese cherry plantation, which was planted from 1922 as a living memorial to World War I soldiers. Continue further along the creek to discover sequoias that were planted in the 1960s as a World War II memorial.
RSL Walk video
- Birdie Loop Walk (45 mins return, 2.75km)
Explore the greens and fairways of what was the Belair Golf Course. Follow the loop to stroll past the remnant grey box woodlands and open grassy areas, which were previously fairways. This gentle loop is great for a quick stroll with your dog (on lead), or a bike ride with the family.
Grade 3 — Suitable for most ages and fitness levels.
- The Valley Loop (1 hour, 3km)
Navigate this trail using Google Street View
This trail follows the forested banks and lower slopes of Minnow Creek between the adventure playground and Long Gully. Please supervise children near the dam wall which can be slippery, and when crossing the sometimes busy road at Long Gully.
The trail starts at the playground.
- Microcarpa Hike (1 hr 45mins, 4km)
Navigate this trail using Google Street View
Walk through one of the most diverse and best-preserved woodland areas remaining in the Mount Lofty Ranges. Just off the trail on Sir Edwin Avenue you’ll find historic sugar gum plantings, the Hawthorn Maze and Belair Railway Station. An off-road stroller would be suitable in dry conditions. Some sections of the trail can become waterlogged, slippery or muddy during winter or wet weather.
The trail starts at the park Information Office.
Grade 4 — Bushwalking experience recommended
- Adventure Loop Trail (6.5 hours return, 13km)
Navigate this trail using Google Street View
The challenging Adventure Loop ride sends you climbing from The Valley Road up Queen Jubilee Drive to the north east corner of the park, on Sheoak Road. From there the loop descends a tight and technical singletrack section into the valley. At the bottom, the loop hugs the eastern boundary of the park, following the challenging steep fire road up to Cherry Plantation Road. Follow the loop around the southern boundary of the park before dropping back into the valley along another great section of technical singletrack.
Grade 5 — Recommended for very experienced bushwalkers
- Waterfall Hike (3 hours, 6.5km)
Navigate this trail using Google Street View
The most challenging trail in the park takes you through Echo Tunnel and to the picturesque rock escarpments of the upper and lower waterfalls. Take care at both waterfalls, the escarpment lookouts are not fenced and can be slippery near the cliff edge. Children must be supervised at all times. The trail has some moderate slopes and can become slippery after rain. It is not suitable for prams or strollers.The trail starts at the Pines area.
You can ride your bike on public roads and any specific cycling trails and tracks on offer in this park.
Please obey signs and use the trail classifications and descriptions, where available, to select trails suitable to your ability. Many trails are shared, so always keep an eye out for others. Generally, cyclists give way to pedestrians. Please be considerate of all trail users at all times.
Make sure you check which trails are shared use.
Generally both cyclists and walkers give way to horses, and cyclists give way to walkers.
Learn more about cycling in SA’s parks, including other parks offering cycle tracks, trail classification and read the trail user code of practice for important points to remember when planning your bike ride.
Easy with intermediate sections
Microcarpa Loop Trail (20 mins return, 4km)
Navigate this trail using Google Street View
Ride through one of the most diverse and best-preserved woodland areas remaining in the Mount Lofty Ranges. Just off the trail on Sir Edwin Avenue you’ll find historic sugar gum plantings, the Hawthorn Maze and Belair Railway Station. The trail starts at the park Information Office.
Intermediate
Adventure Loop Trail (13km)
Navigate this trail using Google Street View
The challenging Adventure Loop ride sends you climbing from The Valley Road up Queen Jubilee Drive to the north east corner of the park, on Sheoak Road. From there the loop descends a tight and technical singletrack section into the valley. At the bottom, the loop hugs the eastern boundary of the park, following the challenging steep fire road up to Cherry Plantation Road. Follow the loop around the southern boundary of the park before dropping back into the valley along another great section of technical singletrack.
Ride your horse along the Tom Roberts Trail. There are also shared use trails that you can ride along.
Generally both cyclists and walkers give way to horses, and cyclists give way to walkers.
The summer residence of South Australia’s early governors, Old Government House, sits in the heart of Belair National Park. The house is an excellent example of Victorian architecture and is set amongst magnificent gardens. It was built on the Government farm as the former summer residence of several early Governors of South Australia.
The cottage is an excellent example of Victorian-style architecture. It is looked after by a dedicated group of volunteers and the Friends of Old Government House in conjunction with DEW.
You can take a guided tour of the buildings and surrounding heritage gardens. Tours are run by the Friends of old Government house on the first and third Sundays of every month and by appointment.
If you are interested in volunteer at Old Government House please see the ‘Volunteering’ tab below for more information.
Old Government House opening hours
Open the first and third Sunday of each month and public holidays, from 1 – 4 pm. Closed Christmas Day and Good Friday. Entry is $10 per adult for a tour and $15 per person for a tour and tea.
Contact information
Friends of Old Government House
Belair National Park
PO Box 2, Belair SA 5052
Phone: (08) 8178 0688 — during business hours, Monday to Friday
Email: friendsofogh@outlook.com
Play tennis on one of the 43 tennis courts available for hire surrounded by gum trees.
Hire a sports oval located in the western section of the park. The ovals are close to shelters, barbecues and toilets.
Please take your rubbish with you.
Let the kids run wild on the adventure playground which has plenty of playground equipment including tunnels and a wooden fort. Picnic facilities are also available. Grab a coffee, ice cream or snack at the Belair kiosk, located in the playground, open weekends, public holidays and school holidays (excluding days of inclement weather).
Get involved in permanent orienteering courses in the park, maps are available for download from the DIY Orienteering page on Orienteering SA website.
Camping is not permitted within this park.
- Use Find a Park to discover which parks you can camp in.
However, adjacent to the Belair National Park, is the Belair National Park Caravan Park offering a range of accommodation options, from shaded camping sites to fully self-contained family cabins that sleep up to six people. There are a number of facilities for all guests including hot showers, a camp kitchen, picnic areas and gas BBQs.
A swimming pool (open in summer only) and a playground will keep the kids entertained as you wind down from the day’s activities.
You may be surprised by the variety of orchids and other wildflowers that bloom in Belair National Park. State Flora, one of South Australia’s original plant nurseries, is also in the park. State Flora specialises in native Australian plants – they grow and sell thousands every year. State Flora has a gift shop with a range of gardening aids, gifts and books.
Take the time to sit and enjoy the lively and colourful displays of our native birdlife. Walkers are likely to come across kangaroos and emus in the early and later hours of the day. Keep an eye on the tree canopy as koalas are a often seen in the park. You might even catch a glimpse of the shy southern brown bandicoot scratching about in the undergrowth. These marsupials are a special feature of Belair’s wildlife.
Want to help?
To find out how you can help in this park or nearby, please visit Natural Resources Adelaide and Mt Lofty Ranges – Volunteering.
Want to join others and become a Park Friend?
To find out more about Friends of Parks groups please visit Friends of Parks South Australia.
You could join others to help look after a park. You can take part in working bees, training and other events.
Visit the Goat Shed to hire an e‑bike, dual suspension bike, urban bike, helmet or bike lock, join a guided tour, grab a coffee and a snack and get information on nearby trails.
Generally both cyclists and walkers give way to horses, and cyclists give way to walkers.
Ensure that you:
- when hiking, wear sturdy shoes, a hat and sunscreen
- be aware of weather conditions and avoid walking during the hottest part of the day
- make sure you have appropriate weather proof clothing
- carry enough water to be self-sufficient
- please be respectful of other users at all times
- stay on the designated trails and connector tracks for your own safety, and prevent the spread of declared weeds to other areas in the park
- ensure someone knows your approximate location and expected time of return
- take appropriate maps.
- Walk, hike or trek — what’s the difference?
Trail Users Code of Practice
To protect the surrounding environment and to ensure the safety of all riders and shared trail users, please be aware of the international Trail Users Code of Practice when using shared trails. Important points to remember include:
- plan your ride
- comply with all signs
- ride only on formed tracks/trails
- share the trail — obey give way rules
- avoid riding in wet, muddy conditions
- ride lightly and leave no trace or rubbish
- control your bike within your limits
- clean your bike to avoid the spread of weeds or plant diseases
- carry sufficient food and drinking water
- respect the rights of others
- tell others about the code
Can I have a fire or barbecue?
- Wood fires and solid fuel fires are prohibited throughout the year.
- Gas and liquid fuel fires are permitted in designated areas only, other than on days of total fire ban.
- Designated FIXED gas barbecues may be used on days of total fire ban, other than when the park has been formally closed. Refer to site office for information.
- Ensure you are familiar with the fire restrictions for this park.
For further information about fire restrictions within the park contact:
Belair National Park Information Office
Phone: (+61 8) 8278 5477
Email: BelairNationalPark@sa.gov.au
Mon — Fri: 8:30 am — 4:30 pm
Weekends and public holidays: 9:00 am — 5.00 pm
Closures and safety
This park is closed on days of Catastrophic Fire Danger and may also be closed on days of Extreme Fire Danger.
You can determine the current fire danger rating by checking the Fire Ban District map on the CFS website.
Check the CFS website or call the CFS Bushfire Information Hotline 1800 362 361 for:
- Information on fire bans and current fire conditions
- Current CFS warnings and incidents
- Information on what to do in the event of a fire.
Listen to your local area radio station for the latest updates and information on fire safety.
Every national park is different, each has its own unique environment, it is important to be responsible while enjoying all the park has to offer.
Please ensure that you:
- keep your dog on a lead at all times and check if there are areas of the park where dogs are not allowed
- do not feed birds or other animals, it promotes aggressive behaviour and an unbalanced ecology
- do not bring generators (except where permitted), chainsaws or firearms into the park
- leave the park as you found it — there are no bins in national parks, please come prepared to take your rubbish with you.
- abide by the road rules (maintain the speed limit)
- respect geological and heritage sites
- do not remove native plants
- are considerate of other park users.
- Important: Collection of firewood within National Parks is prohibited. Dead wood plays a vital role in providing shelter for animals and adding nutrients to the soil.
European wasps are common throughout the Adelaide and Adelaide Hills area. They are about the same size as a bee, but are easily identifiable by their bright yellow body, triangular black markings and are less hairy.
If you see a European wasp, leave it alone – it will only attack if provoked. Unlike a bee, which can only sting once, the European wasp can sting repeatedly.
Although they are painful, wasp stings rarely cause serious problems. However, the venom contains toxins that can cause allergic reactions in some people.
Tips to prevent being stung
Cover food and drink during a barbecue or picnic.
Don’t drink straight from a can or bottle. Use clear containers or drink from a straw.
Don’t leave used plates and picnic-ware exposed.
If you see one, leave it alone and don’t panic.
Why does my dog need to be on a lead?
If your dog is off lead, it is more likely to impact on native wildlife and other visitors in a park and be at risk itself.
Risks to wildlife:
- Dogs off tracks will leave a scent in the bush that will keep wildlife away.
- Uncontrolled dogs may frighten wildlife and disrupt their natural behaviour.
- Some dogs will kill or injure wildlife.
Risks to other park visitors
- Dogs may be aggressive to other park visitors.
- Even friendly dogs can knock people over causing injury.
- Some people want to enjoy parks without dogs.
Risks to your dog
- Poison baits may be laid to control foxes. Baits can be fatal to dogs.
- Even if your dog is friendly, other dogs may not be.
- Your dog can catch parasites (such as fleas and ticks) from wildlife.
- Snake bites are a real risk in natural areas such as parks.
- Wildlife such as kangaroos and koalas will defend themselves if threatened by a dog and can cause significant injury to or the death of your dog.
Please ensure that cubby building is restricted to the Nature Play cubby site near Karka Pavilion. Cubby building has a direct impact on native habitat when sticks and other debris are dragged out of the bush. The process of building bonfire-like structures made of dry timber and leaves also increases fire risk as fuel loads are condensed. Large cubbies also pose an increased risk to visitors given the overall weight and instability of the structure. It is vital that children are supervised at all times.
Park maps
- Belair National Park map
- Belair National Park — Main entrance map
- Belair National Park — Shared use trails map
- Belair National Park — Shared use trails at main entrance map
- Belair National Park — Accessibility map
- Belair National Park — Disk Golf Map
Maps on your mobile
If you have a smartphone or tablet you can download the free Avenza Map app and have interactive national park maps on hand when you need them.
The app uses your device’s built-in GPS to plot your real-time location within the park onto a map. The app can be used without a network connection and without roaming charges. You can also measure area and distance, plot photos and drop placemark pins.
How to get it working on your device:
1. Download the Avenza Maps app from the app store (iOS/Android) whilst you are still in range (its free!).
2. Open up the app and click the shopping cart icon.
3. Click ‘Find’ and type the name of the national park or reserve you are looking for.
4. Click on the map you are after and install it (all our maps are free).
5. You will now find a list of your installed maps on the home page of the Avenza Maps app.
6. Use our maps through the Avenza Mapa app while in the park and never take a wrong turn again.
Google Street View
Want to explore a trail before you leave home or use Google Maps to navigate straight from your door to the trailhead?
We’ve worked with Google to film more than 600km of walking trails, park roads, campgrounds and waterways in some of our most beautiful places. Click to see what the parks offer and the available facilities before you go. This is an especially great tool if you have accessibility needs, are visiting with people of varying ages or fitness levels or are pushing a pram and want to view a trail before leaving home.
You can start exploring this park on Google Street View using the links below.
Ovals and picnic grounds
- Adventure playground
- Gold Escort Picnic Ground
- Government Farm Area 1 Picnic Ground
- Government Farm Area 2 Picnic Ground
- Gums Oval
- Joseph Fisher Picnic Ground
- Karka Picnic Ground
- Long Gully Picnic Ground
- Pines Area 1 Picnic Ground
- Pines Area 2 Picnic Ground
- Playford Lake Picnic Ground
- The Main Oval
- Walnut Paddock Picnic Ground
- Willows Picnic Ground
Shared use trails (walking and mountain biking)
Walking trails
Entry on foot or bike: Free
Vehicle entry: $12.50
Vehicle entry (concession): $10.00
You can pay vehicle entry online before arrival or at the park information office upon entry to the park.*
*To streamline entry, visitors are encouraged to pay online before entering the park. Staff at the ticket office window will still accept payment, and are also available to assist with online payment between 9am and 4.30pm. Additionally, information flyers and a self-service computer are available at reception to assist with the online payment process.
Location of the park office can be found within the park map.
Group entry
Please note, you can purchase group entry for all your event guests when booking an event facility online — $300 (flat rate).
Tennis courts, ovals, picnic grounds and pavilions can be booked online up to 12 months in advance. Follow the below booking link for further information and pricing.
Popular facilities such as tennis courts adjacent to the playground are often booked up to six months in advance.
Group entry
Please note, you can also purchase group entry for all your event guests when booking an event facility online — $300 (flat rate).
For booking information contact the Belair National Park Office between 8:30 am — 4:30 pm, Monday to Friday and 9:00 am to 5:00 pm on Saturday, Sunday and Public Holidays.
Phone: (+61 8) 82785477
If you intend to visit often, you may like to purchase any of the below park passes.
12 month vehicle entry for Belair National Park Pass
Is Belair National Park your favourite park? If you visit more than five times a year, it’s more economical to purchase a 12 month vehicle entry for Belair National Park pass.
- Buy a 12 month vehicle entry for Belair National Park pass now
- Buy in person at a Park Pass outlet
- Park Passes FAQs
2 and 12 month vehicle entry for multiple parks pass
Are you wanting to explore a number of SA’s national parks? Purchasing a 2 or 12 month vehicle entry for multiple parks pass can offer you value for money and convenience.
The 2 and 12 month vehicle entry for multiple parks pass entitle you to vehicle entry for not just this park, but up to an additional 10 parks as well!
There is no National Parks South Australia campgrounds or accommodation available within this park.
However, adjacent to the Belair National Park, is the privately operated Belair National Park Caravan Park offering a range of accommodation options, from shaded camping sites to fully self-contained family cabins that sleep up to six people. There are a number of facilities for all guests including hot showers, a camp kitchen, picnic areas and gas BBQs.
A swimming pool (open in summer only) and a playground will keep the kids entertained as you wind down from the day’s activities.