Situated in the foothills of the Mt Lofty Ranges, only eight kilometres south of Adelaide City centre, Brownhill Creek Recreation Park is a popular multi-use recreation area which is also valued for its historic and scenic attractions. Brown Hill's narrow creek (Willawilla), flowing through a steep sided valley with majestic river red gums, some more than 300 years old, was once a favourite camping, hunting and gathering ground for the Kaurna people.
The park is located in the City of Mitcham and can be entered by vehicle from Brown Hill Creek Road or on foot from Northbrook Avenue. The park may be closed on total fire ban days. Admission is free.
Large river red gums line Brownhill Creek while blue gum woodland climbs the valley slopes which are dotted with golden wattle. Much of the native vegetation was cleared for crops and sheep grazing, along with the introduction of exotic species such as willows, oaks and poplars. Revegetation with native species is gradually progressing.
The creek valley functions as a natural corridor allowing wildlife to move between the foothills and the plains.
More than 40 species of birds and mammals visit the park while others are permanent residents. Kookaburras, bats, possums, water rats, frogs, eastern brown snakes and occasional koalas can be seen in the park.
The first European to settle in the area was Pastor William Finlayson who arrived in 1837. By 1840, agriculture, market gardening and quarrying were important local industries. Concrete pits were used to store horse manure for the market gardens while stone quarries provided sandstone and slate for buildings.
The 52 hectare Brownhill Creek Recreation Park was dedicated in 1972 (previously National Pleasure Resort from 1915). A Friends of Brownhill Creek volunteer group, which is assisting National Parks and Wildlife SA staff in the revegetation of the park, was formed in 1985.
Car parking is provided throughout the park. The Mitcham Lions Club picnic area, located within the park, has shady picnic tables and water available. Camping is not permitted within the park but accommodation is available at Brownhill Creek Caravan Park which has a kiosk. The park also provides walking trails of various lengths and a horse exercise area.
Further information on the park is available from the National Parks and Wildlife SA's Sturt District Office Phone 8278 5477 or visit http://www.environment.sa.gov.au
