Spend a day in nature at Crosslands Reserve

Beautiful camping sites at Crosslands Reserve

If you are on the hunt for a quiet, peaceful picnic spot that is good for the soul then Crosslands Reserve in Hornsby could be the place for you. Crosslands Reserve is part of the Berowra Valley National Park and even though it is in the busy suburb of Hornsby in Sydney’s North you will feel miles away from the urban hustle.

Set down in a valley Crosslands Reserve is a beautiful place to enjoy a day. It is never really very crowded (unless there is a school camp on!!) so I always love the serenity and the peace of being here. Make sure to look up and take in the valley walls around you.

There are heaps of great things to do here. Here are our top 5 things to do in  Crosslands Reserve!

1. Go for a walk or a ride

The start of the Interpretive Trail is an easy boardwalk great for kids

With The Great North Walk (Benowie Walking Track) passing through Crosslands Reserve, it’s a great spot to go for either a long or a short walk. 

For kids there is a short(ish) walk called ‘The Place of Winds Interpretive Trail’ which starts off with a 400m track suitable for children and those with mobility issues.

There are also paved paths throughout the reserve which are great for kids on bikes and scooters.

2. Enjoy a picnic

The grassy grounds are great for a picnic

With huge open green spaces Crosslands Reserve is a great place for a casual picnic. There are free BBQ’s to enjoy and picnic tables scattered throughout the park. The reserve also has clean and tidy toilets amenities for use by visitors.

There is a small set of swings and a flying fox but no fancy big playground (which is actually quite refreshing!)

3. Set up camp

Crosslands Reserve Camping, what a spot to camp

Crosslands Reserve is a popular camping spot with local schools and clubs. It is also great for Sydney-siders or visitors looking for a one or two day camping trip. There are two key camping areas which are located at either end of the reserve. Campers must book a site through Hornsby Council and camping fees apply.

The camping sites are flat and level and peaceful and quiet. Some are close to a Berowra Creek so bring mossie repellent!!

There are toilets but no showers or power. Camp-sites are walk up sites only (cars cannot be parked next to your camp site).

4. Pack the swimmers

A nice spot to swim but check pollution levels first

There are a couple of swimming spots in the reserve one that even has an old fashioned rope swing for the kids. However it is imperative that you check the pollution levels before diving in! Levels can be checked via the Hornsby Council website.

Water quality is generally low after heavy rain.

5. Hire a kayak

Crosslands Reserve provides the perfect spot for a kayak

Take advantage of the calm waters and hire a Kayaks from the Crosslands Youth & Convention Centre. Hire needs to be organised in advance through the Convention Centre.

Top tips

The reserve is situated along Berowra Creek and there is also a magrove wetland, so be prepared for a few mosquitoes.

As Crosslands Reserve is situated in a valley, the road into the reserve is windy and long. Be careful when driving in and take your time.

Freedays summary

• Entry: Free
• Toilets: Yes
• Wheelchair friendly: Yes in parts
• Free carparking: Yes
• Free BBQ facilities: Yes
• Time to spend here: 1 hour to all day
• Food available: No
• Address: Somerville Rd, Hornsby Heights NSW 2077
• Further details: Visit Crosslands Reserve directory listing

More free things to do

After exploring the reserve why not:

• Visit the nearby Lisgar Gardens