Campbelltown is 50km from the CBD but it has a surprising amount going for families — including a free contemporary art centre and some genuine bushland access right on the edge of the suburbs.
Campbelltown Arts Centre (CAC)
The standout free attraction in the area. The Campbelltown Arts Centre is a serious contemporary art gallery, not a community display — it runs professionally curated exhibitions that frequently include immersive and interactive elements that kids respond well to.
Entry is completely free. The gallery also runs free and low-cost workshops and family programs throughout the year. Well worth the trip even if art galleries aren't normally your thing.
Address: 1 Art Gallery Road, Campbelltown Entry: Free Hours: Tue–Sun, check the website for current hours
Koshigaya Park
One of Sydney's best free Japanese gardens. Koshigaya Park was gifted to Campbelltown by its Japanese sister city and it's a genuinely beautiful formal garden — ponds, stone lanterns, wooden bridges, raked gravel, and large koi carp. Kids love spotting the fish.
It's a calm, shaded escape in the middle of a suburban area, and it's completely free.
Address: Queens Road, Campbelltown (near the civic precinct) Entry: Free
Smith's Creek Corridor Reserve
A free bushwalk along Smith's Creek through native woodland. The trails are manageable for kids aged 5 and up, and the creek crossings and bird life hold their attention. The full corridor is several kilometres but you can turn around at any point.
Good for families who want some genuine bushland without driving to a national park.
Entry: Free — access from multiple points along Menangle Road
Campbelltown Library
Campbelltown City Library runs free story time sessions during school terms and holiday programs. Check ahead as sessions book out.
Find current library sessions by searching "Campbelltown" on Discover.
Memorial Park
The main public park in central Campbelltown, close to the library and arts centre. A good spot to let kids run around before or after visiting the gallery or gardens.
Address: Queen Street, Campbelltown
Free council events
Campbelltown City Council runs one of the better free events programs in Greater Sydney, particularly in school holidays — outdoor cinema, holiday activity programs, and community festivals. Browse all upcoming events at Little Rascal.
Camden (nearby)
Worth a short drive. The historic town of Camden is about 15 minutes away and has a pleasant main street and the free Camden Museum for a quick history hit. Belgenny Farm (National Trust) sometimes has free open days — check their website.
On a rainy day
- Campbelltown Arts Centre — free, air conditioned
- Campbelltown Library — free
- Macarthur Square — the regional shopping centre has a food court and play area
Getting there
Campbelltown is on the T8 Airport & South Line — about 1 hour from the CBD. The arts centre, Koshigaya Park, and library are all within walking distance of the station.
Updated May 2026. Know a great free spot in Campbelltown we've missed? Let us know.