Candlebark Park

Last updated April 2026

Watch your little ones light up as they spot kangaroos grazing just metres off the path at Candlebark Park in Templestowe, Melbourne. This peaceful nature walk winds along the Yarra River, offering gentle trails that feel like a hidden adventure just minutes from the city. Kids love spotting birds in the river gums and searching for tiny frogs near the streams, while parents enjoy the quiet bush setting and riverside picnic spots. The park’s wide, well-maintained tracks make it easy to push a stroller or let toddlers explore at their own pace. It’s the kind of place where families can slow down, breathe in the fresh air, and reconnect with nature without straying too far from home. **What to Bring** Comfortable walking shoes with grip for uneven paths. A wide-brimmed hat and sunscreen—shade is limited on open sections. A refillable water bottle and a small snack for when the kids get hungry. A light rain jacket, as the river creates a cooler microclimate. Binoculars if you want to birdwatch in detail. **Best Age Range** Perfect for 2–8 year olds who can manage short walks. Toddlers will love the open spaces and animal spotting, while older kids enjoy the sense of discovery along the river. **Good to Know** Free entry. No bookings required. Public toilets are available near the car park. Best visited on weekdays to avoid weekend crowds. Dogs on leads are welcome. **Nearby** Stop by the playground at Templestowe Lower Primary in Templestowe, Melbourne for a post-walk energy burn. Or grab a bite at the family-friendly Templestowe Hotel just a few minutes away. **Tips From Other Parents** Go early on weekends—it gets busy by 10am with picnickers and dog walkers. Bring a spare change of clothes; the kids always want to paddle in the shallow streams. Keep an eye out for the resident kookaburras—they’ll often perch right above the path, ready for a laugh.