If a trip to the beautiful Kangaroo Valley is on the cards this July school holidays, you’ll be pleased to know that there are a multitude of activities and family-friendly adventures to keep the kids entertained and their craziness at bay.
From the best playgrounds to farm animal feeding and sweet treats in the afternoon, we’ve pulled together a collection of the best things to do in the Kangaroo Valley with kids these school holidays.
If outdoor adventure is what your kiddos seek, you needn’t look far during your stay. On-site at Barranca, you’ll find farm animal feeding, nature walks aplenty, kayaking (try Kangaroo Valley Adventure Co), and wildlife spotting. Kids who are more the indoorsy type will love baking and creating in the chef-style accommodation kitchen, roasting marshmallows by the fire, and playing board games. Families with older kids can join in the fun together with Luxury Clay Experiences, where a team of creative experts will come to you with all the tools you’ll need.
If your kids do better free-range, you’ll be pleased to know that there are plenty of parks in and around Kangaroo Valley for them to run wild. Try Osborn Park (at the Kangaroo Valley Showground) for wide open spaces, Boongaree Rotary Nature Play Park in Berry for climbers, or the Kangaroo Valley Bike Pump Track for sport-lovers.
Kangaroo Valley is surrounded by lush bushland, misty escarpments, and flowing creeks — perfect for nature-loving families. There are plenty of scenic spots to explore with kids, from gentle walks to spectacular lookouts and waterfalls.
Take a stroll through Kangaroo River Walking Track, a flat, family-friendly loop that winds past native bush and birdlife. For a more adventurous option, head to Fitzroy Falls, located within Morton National Park — an easy drive from the valley. The lookout is stroller-friendly, and there are several short walking tracks to explore depending on your kids’ ages.
Other local gems include Carrington Falls and Belmore Falls, both offering beautiful views and picnic spots for a post-walk treat. If you're lucky, you may even spot wombats, wallabies, or lyrebirds along the way!
And when it comes to watery fun, kayaking along the Kangaroo River is a calm and safe way for kids to enjoy the outdoors (Kangaroo Valley Adventure Co.) offers great options for families).
For an alternative way to explore the local landscape, especially if your kids love animals, why not hop in the saddle with Kangaroo Valley Horses? Kids over 14 can go for a 1.5–2 hour trail ride for $150 per rider.
While you might enjoy some cosy, private meals at your Barranca accommodation, there are a few great family-friendly eateries around if you decide to venture out.
Start the day at KV Coffee Co — a local favourite that also lets mum and dad caffeinate in peace. If you're around on a weekend, you might catch the Kangaroo Valley Farmers Market, held on the second Sunday of every month from 9am to 1pm.
For lunch or dinner, head to The Friendly Inn, which has a playground and plenty of outdoor space for the kids to run around. And if you’re in need of a post-meal treat, Sweet As Kangaroo Valley is your go-to. With lollies and gelato flavours galore, it’s guaranteed to keep everyone happy (though you may want to plan a park visit afterwards to burn it off!).
Finally, where to rest those little heads at night.
Barranca Kangaroo Valley offers four farm-stay accommodation options — Ferndale and Willow (which each sleep up to eight), and Jacaranda and Banksia (which each sleep up to four). Surrounded by the stunning scenery of the valley, our properties are ideal for a wintery weekend away with the family.
And when it comes time to plan your next getaway, don’t forget to check out Marlu House in Jervis Bay. It sleeps up to ten and offers everything from a basketball court and ping-pong table to bikes and wide open spaces for the kids (and grown-ups) to enjoy.