10 free things to do this summer in The Hills

There are plenty of free activities and places to enjoy in Moreton Bay this summer.

The Hills District has an impressive line-up of free activities to enjoy and places to discover, from nature-rich lookouts to forest drives.

Here's a list of 10 free things to do in The Hills this summer.

1. Woodford Museum

Woodford Museum is a community hub for the history of Woodford’s early explorers, including the Mick and Val Draper collection of miniature buildings. There are guided tours by request, a gift shop, and accessible toilets.

Where: 109 Archer St, Woodford

When: Tuesday-Saturday (closed Thursday) | 10am-2pm

2. Woodford Country Markets

Hosted by the Woodford Historical Society, the Woodford Country Markets are the perfect place to visit for all those country goodies. Some of the most popular stalls include plants and herbs, jewellery, arts and craft, homewares and fresh fruit and vegetables.

Where: 109 Archer St, Woodford

When: Every third Sunday of the month | 7am-noon

3. Lees Crossing Road Reserve

Lees Crossing Road Reserve is home to one of the best swimming spots in Moreton Bay, with a beautiful tree canopy covering most of the area. There is also plenty of birdlife, with 117 species observed.

Where: Dayboro, QLD

When: Open 24 hours

4. Edward Allison Park

Edward Allison Park doesn’t have many facilities, but it does have the incredible freshwater Cedar Creek that offers endless water fun on a hot summer’s day. You can skim and collect rocks, make a dam, collect guppies and have a small picnic by the water. It should be noted there are no toilets.

Where: 647 Eatons Crossing Road, Eatons Hill

When: Open 24 hours

5. Kumbartcho Sanctuary

Kumbartcho Sanctuary is a flora and fauna sanctuary that offers walking tracks, a public park, a barbecue area and playground. There is also a native plant nursery and an environmental education centre with videos, displays and arts and craft.

Where: 15 Bunya Pine Ct, Eatons Hill

When: Tuesday-Friday | 9am-2pm

6. Jollys Lookout

Jollys Lookout offers one of the most stunning views within the D’Aguilar National Park. The lookout is set among the backdrop of the lush rainforest and eucalypt forest of Mount Nebo. There are numerous barbecues, walking trails, sheltered and exposed picnic tables and a well-maintained toilet block.

Where: Within D’Aguilar National Park, Mount Nebo

When: Open 24 hours

7. Leslie Patrick Park

Leslie Patrick Park is the perfect place to take the children for a fun day out. With a uniquely designed playground, including swirly and curly designs, a variety of different spinners, a five-way swing and an accessible carousel, the park is inclusive, meaning everyone can enjoy the area.

Where: 135 Olearia St W, Arana Hills

When: Open 24 hours

8. Woodford Library

There are plenty of activities to do this summer at the Woodford Library. The library has a cosy atmosphere, with a large selection of books, films and music to choose from to make this summer the most relaxed one yet. There’s also toys for loan for the little ones, public PCs with internet access and a variety of workshops and programs.

Where: 1 Elizabeth St, Woodford

When: Monday-Thursday, 8.30am-5pm | Friday, 8.30am-7pm I Saturday, 9am-1pm

9. Mount Mee Forest Drive

The Mount Mee Forest drive is 23km drive one-way, allowing you to journey through native and plantation forests. During the trip, you will come across rainforest walks, pristine waterholes and shaded picnic areas. There are also toilets and wheelchair access.

Where: The drive starts from The Gantry, 391/481 Sellin Rd, Mount Mee

When: Open 24 hours

10. The Slab Hut: Art and Craft

The Slab Hut is a unique art and craft venue with gum tree slab walls, yellow gum floorboards and a high-pitched roof made from recycled corrugated iron. There is a range of art and craft, including fashionable art-to-wear designs, ceramics, wooden items and adornments made from leather and glass.

Where: John Scott Park, Main St, Samford

When: Monday-Sunday | 10am-4pm