Planning to install an in ground trampoline at home? More and more Aussie families are choosing this style for its streamlined look, easy access, and lower profile.
Before you start digging, it helps to understand the planning, materials, and practical steps involved, so your setup stays safe, long-lasting, and ready for years of outdoor play.
Why Families Choose In-Ground Designs
For parents, a trampoline often becomes a central hub for outdoor fun, a place for exercise, energy-burning, and everyday fun. An in ground setup removes the tall frame and ladder of traditional trampolines, creating a clean, integrated look that blends into your landscaping. Whether you prefer a round in ground trampoline or a rectangle in-ground trampoline, these models sit level with the lawn for easy walk-on access.
With no visible legs or bulky structure, an in-ground trampoline is also less visually dominant, appealing to homeowners who want a tidier, more modern outdoor space. The reduced fall height can also offer added peace of mind, especially for younger jumpers.
Start With the Right Spot
Before you dig, choose a location with clear space around the jump zone. Aim for a flat area away from garden beds, retaining edges, and overhanging branches. If your yard slopes, you can still install an in-ground trampoline, but it may require extra soil shaping or professional support.
Our team helps families map out their layout, and their installation guide includes measurements, diagrams, and tips for preparing your space.
Plan for Proper Ventilation and Bounce
All trampolines, including in-ground models, rely on airflow for a strong, even bounce. When the mat pushes down, air needs room to escape. Oz Trampolines’ designs are engineered with built-in vented pads to support smooth airflow and avoid the “muffled” or restricted bounce seen in older DIY pits.
Whether you choose a trampoline with a net (still an option for in-ground setups) or an open design, ensuring good airflow under the mat helps maintain performance in the long term.
Understanding the Excavation Stage
Excavation is the part homeowners worry about most, but with the right plan, it’s manageable. Many families do it themselves with a hired digger. You’ll create a bowl-shaped hole: wider at the top, deeper in the centre. This shape supports natural airflow and keeps the frame stable.
Every in-ground model comes with its own retaining wall, saving time and avoiding custom construction. The wall supports the surrounding soil and helps keep the trampoline securely in place.
Drainage: The Most Important Step to Get Right
Drainage is the top question for anyone installing an in-ground trampoline. Water naturally collects in low-lying areas, so your pit needs a way to disperse it. Thankfully, there are several simple solutions:
? A soakage pit filled with gravel
? A layer of drainage aggregate under the base
? A slotted pipe leading to an existing drainage point
The right approach depends on your soil type and yard conditions, and Oz Trampolines’ guide breaks down each method with diagrams and instructions. If you prefer not to DIY, you can book a trusted installer through their nationwide partner network.
Choosing Your Trampoline Shape and Size
Families typically decide between a round and rectangular design. A round in ground trampoline is great for general play and keeping jumpers centred, while a rectangle in-ground trampoline offers more space for controlled take-offs and landings, ideal for gymnasts, dancers, and energetic teens.
We offer both shapes across their North, Capital, and Primus ranges, all designed for Australian conditions.
Features include:
? Heavy-duty, double-galvanised frames
? UV-resistant pads and mats
? High-performance springs
? Up to 10-year frame warranties
? Materials tested to withstand heat, coastal moisture, and high UV exposure
These aren’t temporary imports or short-term resells, they’re purpose-built models backed by long-term local support.
Safety Considerations
While in-ground trampolines offer a lower fall height, adding a trampoline with a net is still an option for families wanting extra containment. Soft padding, proper ventilation, and stable installation all contribute to safer use.
The goal isn’t to promise “zero risk, no play equipment can offer that, but to help parents create a setup that supports safe, confident jumping.
Make the Most of Your Backyard Play Space
An in-ground setup becomes part of your outdoor living space, a permanent fixture that encourages kids to step outside, move their bodies, and enjoy daily exercise. It blends effortlessly into garden designs, especially when surrounded by lawn, decking, or paving.
Oz Trampolines has helped thousands of Australian families create safe, durable, low-profile jump zones that look great year-round. If you’re ready to explore models or learn more about installation:
Browse our full range of in-ground trampolines and find a professional installer near you.
