Spalding: Parks and the Chapman River

Discover Spalding through two distinct park experiences: AMC Park brings together play and recreation, while Spalding Park, which borders the suburb, offers a different perspective on the area through its history and location on the Chapman River. These provide practical starting points for planning your day, with options for shared activities and time outdoors.

Play facilities at AMC Park

The City of Greater Geraldton’s 2024 reopening report lists water play areas for younger children, a flying fox and a multi-purpose sports court at AMC Park in Spalding. There are also barbecue facilities and sheltered picnic tables, as well as public toilets. A bush tucker garden and a yarning circle are also listed.

For families, the practical appeal lies in the range of options: the water play areas are specifically for younger children, while the flying fox and sports court offer more ways to be active. Barbecue facilities and sheltered tables provide a place to take a break. You can consider whether play, sport or a shared outdoor break will be the focus of your outing.

History and riverside setting

Spalding Park borders the suburb of Spalding and has been a historically significant public park since 1891. Its location on the Chapman River gives it considerable aesthetic significance. The parks therefore appeal to different interests: play and activity are central to AMC Park, while Spalding Park is shaped by its long history and riverside setting.

The park’s current facilities also offer practical pointers for planning. Spalding Park has a mountain bike pump, jump and skills track, as well as public toilets; a shade sail covers the play equipment. The combination of a bike track and play area sets this park apart from the facilities at AMC Park, without requiring the two parks to offer the same things.

Another activity at Spalding Park is the miniature railway. Visitors can ride on its 1,000 m outdoor track. This is a distinct way to complement the park’s play and recreational facilities with a ride on the railway.

Paths and day planning

In 2020, the City reported the completion of a 680 m shared path, separated from road traffic, running from Green Street to the southern side of the Chapman River. From the east side of the North West Coastal Highway, the path provides access to Spalding Park and its cycling facilities. Its purpose is therefore different from that of a circuit: it leads to the park and its cycling facilities.

An 11 km circuit near the Chapman River is also suitable for all ages and abilities. The two distances answer different planning questions: 680 m describes the path to the park entrance, while 11 km is the length of the circuit. If you are planning a longer outing, you can consider the circuit as a separate option from the path to the park.

Find accommodation to suit your plans

These differences make it easier to find a suitable base for your stay.

Explore more destinations: Woodbridge, Wonnerup, Monkey Mia, Yallingup Siding, Boyup Brook, North Fremantle, Siesta Park, Jurien Bay.

View the broader travel guide: Western Australia.