Hodgson Reserve

Hodgson Reserve is a spacious community park in suburban Melbourne that offers families everything needed for an active outdoor day. With multiple playgrounds catering to different age groups, expansive green spaces for ball games, and well-maintained walking paths, it's a local favorite that provides excellent value as a free attraction for visiting families.

• ✓Multiple playground areas with modern equipment including swings, slides, climbing structures, and sensory play elements
• ✓Large grassed areas perfect for picnics, ball games, and letting kids run freely
• ✓Free public BBQ facilities and covered picnic shelters for family gatherings
• ✓Paved walking and cycling paths suitable for strollers and young cyclists learning to ride
• ✓Sports facilities including tennis courts and basketball courts for older children

1. 1.Street parking is available along Bolinda Street and surrounding residential streets. Arrive before 10am on weekends to secure the most convenient spots near your preferred playground area.
2. 2.Pack a picnic and use the BBQ facilities (free to use) located near the main playground. There are covered picnic shelters which are essential during Melbourne's changeable weather.
3. 3.Bring a soccer ball or frisbee as the large open fields are perfect for active play, and sports equipment isn't available for hire on-site.
4. 4.The park has limited shade in some areas, so bring sunscreen, hats, and plenty of water, especially during Australian summer months (December to February).
5. 5.Download offline maps before visiting as mobile data coverage can be patchy in some parts of the reserve.

Visit on weekday mornings (9am to 11am) for a quieter experience, or Saturday and Sunday mornings for a lively community atmosphere. Autumn (March to May) offers the most comfortable weather for international visitors, avoiding summer heat and winter rain.

Entry is completely free and the park is open 24 hours, though best enjoyed during daylight. Public toilets are available on-site, and while there's no cafe, the nearby Bentleigh shopping district (5-minute walk) offers food options and supplies.

The park is accessible year-round, but Melbourne weather is highly variable. Summer (December to February) can be very hot with temperatures exceeding 35°C (95°F), so early morning visits are recommended. Winter (June to August) can be rainy and cool, around 10 to 15°C (50 to 59°F), so bring layers and rain jackets. Spring and autumn offer the most pleasant conditions for outdoor play.

Head to Centre Road in Bentleigh (5-minute walk) for family-friendly cafes and restaurants including The Bentleigh Club for casual dining, or Bentleigh village shops for takeaway fish and chips, pizza, and Asian cuisine options perfect for a park picnic.