Colleges Crossing Recreation Reserve

Picturesque Colleges Crossing Recreation Reserve at Chuwar in Ipswich is a fun-filled park bordering the Brisbane River.

There’s something for everyone at Colleges Crossing, with a fantastic playground and wide open green space, rotundas with tables and BBQ’s spotted around the park (but on a busy and hot weekend, bring a marquee just in case). 

The park has expanses of luscious green grass to kick the ball around as well as meandering walking paths along the river. There are also modern toilet facilities that are well maintained and equipped with showers.

For the kids, there’s oodles of fun to be had. Although it’s not advisable to swim at Colleges Crossing due to the fast flowing current and bull sharks being caught in the past, kids can still dip their toes in the water and have a splash about. There are also plenty of stones on the river bank, perfect for some stone skimming action.

The play equipment is all brand new and covered with shade sails. There’s a fort, climbing rock, musical wall, sway boat, balance beams, rope bridge, spinning seats, log tunnel, stepping stones and frog sculptures. Endless play options!

And for the adults, if you’re lucky enough to score a spot under a shady tree beside the river, it’s the perfect place to unwind while you watch the ducks paddle on the water, listen to the birds tweet in the tree overhead or cast a line for a spot of fishing.

Most importantly, there is a cafe at the top of the park which overlooks the river, perfect for coffee or cold drink while the kids play in the playground below. The cafe also sells ice-creams and ice-blocks for those hot days as well as breakfast and lunch.

The all day breakfast menu is mainly made up by a variety of egg dishes and toast; there are classic burgers on offer, hot dogs, sandwiches as well as side dishes such as chips and wedges. Tea, coffee and cold drinks are also available.

So, forget work, forget the chores, pack up the family and head to Colleges Crossing for some quality family time in the great outdoors. Colleges Crossing is an Ipswich gem.

by Eva Lewis

And, for more great things to see and do in Ipswich, visit Discover Ipswich HERE.