The best nature playgroups in Perth for little wild things
If you’ve got a kid under five, you’ve probably figured out that nature + toddlers = pure magic. Whether they’re charging through the grass like tiny tornadoes or happily splashing in every puddle, the great outdoors is basically a giant playground.
Even better? You don’t have to go it alone. Perth is packed with awesome nature playgroups where kids can explore, create, and go full wildling while you sneak in a coffee and maybe even a chat with another grown-up.
Here are some of the best spots to check out:
Perth City Farm Nature Playgroup
Perth City Farm’s Nature Playgroup is a Saturday morning ritual in the leafy gardens of this inner-city oasis. Kids can dive into story time, sensory play, music and nature-based activities designed to get them exploring with all their senses. It’s relaxed, creative and the perfect way to kick off the weekend.
Once the session wraps, wander through the farmers market for your weekly produce haul or grab brunch at the on-site café. With free parking at the TAFE next door, you’re basically set for the morning. No term commitment required, just book the weeks that suit.
WA Gould League Nature Playgroup – Wembley
At Herdsman Lake Discovery Centre, this eco-friendly playgroup is perfect for budding little naturalists. Sessions usually start with story time before heading out on a wander to spot birds, collect leaves and splash in puddles. Afterwards, it’s on to nature crafts and sensory play.
The 90-minute program is only the beginning. Stick around afterwards to explore the Discovery Centre where you’ll find live frogs, stick insects, lizards, puzzles and soft toys to keep curious minds busy. Pack a snack or picnic to enjoy lakeside, or grab a coffee (and babycino) from the on-site café. Though food options are limited, so BYO for hungry, little bellies. And yep dress for mess, this is outdoor fun at its best. Book casually or grab a term pass if you’re hooked.
Zippy’s Bush Kindy – Kings Park, Perth Hills and Bunbury
If you’re after something a little more like “nature school,” Zippy’s Bush Kindy is the one. Each term has a fresh theme, with activities designed to teach through play. From testing buoyancy by floating sticks in a stream to spotting critters under rocks. Sessions encourage teamwork, movement and plenty of free exploration.
Ideal for 3-5 year olds, Zippy’s is hugely popular, so book early. Bring a lunchbox and linger afterwards to let the kids roam free. We’ve personally attended the Kings Park sessions and we imagine the sessions held at the other locations will be just as good. Whether at Kings Park’s Rio Tinto Naturescape, the Perth Hills or Bunbury, it’s a beautiful way to watch kids grow in confidence, curiosity and care for the natural world.
Buds n’ Blooms Intergenerational Playgroup - City of Melville EcoHub
Set in the tranquil surrounds of City of Melville’s Eco Hub, Buds n’ Blooms blends gardening, crafting, songs and good old-fashioned play. Each week offers a fresh activity: build a bee hotel, craft a spring flower crown or even take home your own mini worm farm.
Sessions are guided by a skilled facilitator, but you're welcome come and go as you please. There’s plenty of space for little ones to wander and explore at their own pace.
After the main activity, kids get stuck into free play in the garden and mud kitchen. Worm trays from the on-site worm farm are a crowd favourite (yes, you can pick them up and watch them squiggle on your kid’s hands). This program is designed to encourage intergenerational bonding, making it a lovely outing for grandparents and grandkids to enjoy together. Best of all, it’s completely free, thanks to the City of Melville.
Sessions run outdoors in all weather, so pack accordingly. Hats, sunscreen, raincoats, gumboots and spare clothes are your friends.
Froggy’s Fun on the Green - City of Cockburn
Free, fun and family-friendly, Froggy’s Fun on the Green is as wholesome as it sounds. Run by the City of Cockburn, this outdoor playgroup is held during school terms on Monday mornings at Manning Park (Hamilton Hill) and Tuesday mornings at the Coolbellup Hub.
It’s all about open-ended, outdoor play with plenty of room for imaginations to run wild. No bookings required, just bring the essentials (hats, snacks, water and sunscreen) and join in. Sessions run in all weather, with Coolbellup offering an indoor option when needed.
Facilities include free parking, toilets, accessible bays, sunscreen and water refill stations. Just a heads up: Manning Park has a lake nearby, so you’ll want to keep a close eye on your little adventurers. Froggy’s is relaxed, community-minded and flexible, making it one of the easiest ways to dip into nature play, no term commitments required.
Why we’re all about nature play
Beyond the muddy boots and flower crowns, nature play supports some pretty incredible growth. It helps kids:
- Build strength and coordination (climbing, balancing and hauling sticks, it all counts).
- Flex problem-solving skills through open-ended exploration.
- Learn social smarts by sharing, cooperating and navigating squabbles.
- Get sensory input from the real world, not a screen.
And for parents? It’s a chilled-out way to let your kid go wild while you reset with some fresh air.
A few pro tips before you head out:
- Pack spare clothes (and maybe a towel). Nature play can be gloriously messy.
- Bring snacks and water. Tiny, bush explorers get hungry.
- Embrace the chaos! Sometimes watching your kid roll in the mud is the best bit.
- There’s no bad weather, just bad clothes. Nature playgroups are usually all season events. Pack hats and sunscreen for the summer months and raincoats, rain pants and boots for the winter months.
- Most sessions run during the school term. Some require bookings (especially Zippy’s Bush Kindy and the WA Gould League Nature Playgroup), while others are free drop-ins. Always check the details before heading out.
- Most nature playgroups in Perth cater to kids between two to five, but some welcome younger or older siblings too. Just call ahead to check.
So if your toddler needs a little fresh-air freedom (and you could use a coffee in the sun), give one of these playgroups a go. Perth’s bursting with outdoor adventures and these nature playgroups are one of the easiest ways to tap into them with some company too.
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