WHERE TO ESCAPE THE HEAT IN CANBERRA - FOR FREE!

By Renee Bogatko, Image Credit – Leo Pure/Facebook

Canberra has no shortage of places to cool off during the heat, which certainly come in handy on scorchers like today!

A top of 39 degrees is expected in the capital with plenty more 30+ days forecast over summer.

While it’s great to hit up your local pool, café or cinema for some air-conditioned relief, it costs money – cash many people can’t afford to part with over Christmas.

So we thought we’d put together a list of places where you can cool off, for free!

KAMBAH POOL

Kambah Pool is a great place for a swim and even a spot of fishing! Located off Kambah Pool Road via Sulwood Drive in Tuggeranong, it’s just a short walk from either of the car parks. There’s also a nude bathing area 200m downstream from Kambah Pool, if that’s your thing! Pack your favourite blow-up pool toy and float down the beautiful section of the Murrumbidgee River, or have a nap under an umbrella on the sandy river bank!

Image Credit – Phan Anh Tuan/Facebook

CASUARINA SANDS

Casuarina Sands is an ideal spot for picnics, river swimming, fishing or kayaking! Located just 20 minutes from the city at the Cotter Reserve, it has shady riverside beaches, free barbeques and a playground. A great place to relax and enjoy a refreshing dip with family and friends! Enjoy the scenery and get in touch with nature!

Image Credit – Sid Tinney/Facebook

WESTON PARK

If you love the beach, then make sure you head to Weston Park, as it has the closest Canberra equivalent! Cool off at the beach and swimming area on the eastern shore. You can also ride your bike on the cycle track and enjoy a BBQ or picnic at one of the shaded eating areas! Kids will love the adventure playground which has water play sections.

Image Credit – Tasya Manu/Facebook

GIBRALTAR FALLS

If you’re looking for somewhere to cool off with spectacular views – then Gibraltar Falls is the place! Gibraltar Falls is upstream from Woods Reserve, a few minutes drive south off Corin Road. Make use of the picnic shelter, BBQ and camping area, or take the short track to a lookout where you can enjoy a dip in the rock pools while taking in the breath-taking views.

Image Credit - supplied

URIARRA CROSSING

On hot summer days you’ll find many Canberrans having a splash in the river and enjoying a picnic at Uriarra Crossing. Fishing and canoeing are also popular activities! In even better news, dogs are welcome at the river and picnic areas! The perfect place to cool off and create memories with the fam!

Image Credit – Soelily Consen-Lynch/Facebook

Where’s your favourite FREE place to cool off in Canberra? Have your say at our Facebook page!