10 Best Family-Friendly Activities in the Richmond Valley
Last Updated: 03 June 2026
Forget the theme park crowds. From pristine shallow river estuaries and traffic-free rail trails to massive epic playgrounds and rich pioneer history, here is the ultimate local guide to keeping the kids entertained across our coast and country.
1. Splash in the Shallows at the Evans River Estuary
The calm, crystal-clear estuary waters of the Evans River are a parent’s dream. Unlike rough open beaches, the river offers perfectly safe, wave-free shallows where little ones can splash, build sandcastles, and paddle securely while you relax on the sand.
Insider Tip:
Head down right as the tide is coming in—the water turns a magnificent aquamarine color and is perfect for floating on pool rings.
2. Spot the wildlife along the Richmond River Scenic Walk
Turn a casual wander into an authentic wildlife safari. Take a gentle morning stroll along the shaded banks of the Richmond River in Casino. Walking quietly near the historic Crossing Place gives the kids a massive chance to see wild platypus playing in the ripples or native birds tweeting above.
Insider Tip:
Pack a magnifying glass or binoculars for the kids—it turns them into instant little bush detectives!
3. Cycle, Stroll or Cruise the Northern Rivers Rail Trail
Pack the bikes, or the pram. The newly completed Casino-to-Lismore section of the Rail Trail is completely traffic-free, flat, and relaxed, winding beautifully through country landscapes. It’s the ultimate, safe outdoor afternoon burn for active kids.
Insider Tip:
Keep your eyes peeled as you pass over Naughtons Gap—the historic old tunnel area is a protected sanctuary for tiny microbats!
4. Hit the Ultimate Playground Trifecta
We don’t just have standard swings; our towns boast some of the best adventure playgrounds in the region. Let the kids burn off energy at Casino’s expansive Crawford Square, explore the beautiful Riverside Park in Woodburn right on the water, or head to the coast for a massive play session at Stan Payne Oval in Evans Head.
Insider Tip:
All three of these main regional parks feature fantastic shade shelters, picnic spots, and public BBQs, making them perfect for an easy, budget-friendly family lunch stop.
5. Step Back in Time at Our Local Museums
Rainy day? Or just have a little history buff in the family? The Richmond Valley is a goldmine for incredible, volunteer-run museums that bring our past to life. Check out the fantastic community archives, local surfing history, and maritime artifacts at Evans Head Living Museum. Aviation fans will be blown away stepping inside real vintage bombers at the Evans Head Heritage Aviation Museum. Train lovers can ride a miniature locomotive right to the historic old station at the Casino Miniature Railway & Museum. You can explore generations of local service stories at the Northern Rivers Military Museum in Casino’s old Drill Hall, discover early colonial life at the Casino Historical Museum, or uncover the deep riverboat and pioneering maritime heritage of the lower valley at the Coraki Museum (housed in the historic 1912 council chambers).
Insider Tip:
Because these gems are proudly cared for by passionate local volunteers, opening hours vary across the week. Check the local visitor centre info before you head out—the guides love sharing secret stories you won’t find in any history book
6. Explore the Historic New Italy Complex
Immerse your family in a truly unique Italian experience tucked right into the Australian bushland. Step onto the acreage of the historic New Italy Museum complex, which proudly honours the spiritual legacy of the Italian pioneer families who established the settlement against all odds in 1882. Kids will love wandering through the volunteer-built mud-brick pavilions, exploring the massive World Expo Italian Pavilion, and viewing original artifacts from the pioneer voyage. With wide-open grounds where local wild kangaroos love to laze about, a glass-blowing art studio to explore, and a dedicated off-leash dog park, it’s a memorable stopover where the whole family can run around, stretch their legs, and uncover a piece of multicultural history.
Insider Tip:
Entry to the complex is free! Grab a seat under the grape vine trellises at the onsite cafe to enjoy some of the best coffee and delicious homemade cakes on the highway while the kids check out the glass art gallery.
7. Paddle Our Pristine Waterways
The Richmond Valley is defined by its water, and there is no better way to experience it than from a kayak or stand-up paddleboard. Whether you are paddling the calm reaches of the river in Casino, exploring the broad waters at Coraki and Woodburn, or navigating the mangrove-lined canals of Evans Head and Broadwater, our waterways offer smooth, safe paddling for all skill levels. For all our Paddle Routes click here.
Insider Tip:
Keep an eye on the sky and the banks while paddling—you’ll often spot giant sea eagles soaring overhead or water dragons sunning themselves on the river rocks.
8. Run Wild at Airforce Beach
Airforce Beach is the ultimate wide-open playground. Because this massive stretch of sand is fully dog-friendly, it has heaps of room for the entire family—including the four-legged members. Come down to fish in the beach gutters, swim in the waves, kick a footy, or just let the kids run wild with maximum freedom.
Insider Tip:
This is a popular spot for local 4WD enthusiasts too! You can drive right onto the sand to set up your perfect beach base camp for the day.
9. Grab a Bite at a Local Family-Friendly Spot
After a massive day of exploring, wind down with a meal at one of our welcoming local pubs, clubs, or cafes across the valley. From spacious beer gardens where the kids can stretch their legs to classic country counter meals and fresh coastal seafood, our local establishments make family dining completely stress-free.
Insider Tip:
Many of our local bowls clubs and hotels feature dedicated kids’ menus and play areas, allowing the parents to actually sit back and enjoy a quiet chat.
10. Tour the Region's Epic Skate & BMX Parks
For kids who live on wheels, the Richmond Valley is packed with fantastic, custom-built parks designed for bikes, scooters, and skateboards. Bring the wheels along and do a mini-tour of our towns: check out the massive Casino Skate Park at Crawford Square which features an awesome adjacent BMX pump track, hit the coastal transitions at Evans Head, drop into the ramps at Woodburn right near the sporting fields, or enjoy a casual roll at the Broadwater community facilities.
Insider Tip:
If you are hitting Crawford Square in Casino, pack a football or cricket bat too. The park has heaps of open grass right next to the tracks, meaning there is plenty of room for older kids to skate while younger ones play safely nearby.
