Dandenong Ranges National Park is a rainforest getaway on Melbourne's doorstep. This is a place of tranquil forest walks, quaint hilltop towns and charismatic animals. Conquer the famous 1000 Steps, discover Olinda Falls and enjoy stunning views over Melbourne and the Yarra Valley. Here you'll find steep volcanic hills covered in stands of the world's tallest flowering tree, the Mountain Ash. Living among the greenery are wallabies, lyrebirds, wombats and the Powerful Owl. Please ensure you leave your dogs at home to avoid disturbing the local wildlife. Take an energetic walk up the 1000 Steps from Ferntree Gully Picnic Area and learn about its poignant association with Australia's Second World War veterans and the Kokoda Track Campaign.See more..
The wild Southern Ocean has carved the Port Campbell National Park coastline into formations that are famous the world over - and earned it the nickname of the Shipwreck Coast. Drive the Great Ocean Road and see London Bridge, The Grotto, Loch Ard Gorge and the unmissable Twelve Apostles. The best way to see Port Campbell National Park is to take the Great Ocean Road. This is one of the world's most celebrated scenic drives – and its undoubted highlight is the Twelve Apostles, which tower 45 metres above the Southern Ocean. On a coastline renowned for its spectacular coastal formations it’s easy to overlook London Bridge and The Grotto, which are both as awesome in their own way as the more famous Twelve Apostles.See more..
4.5Wilsons Promontory National Park(755 reviews) - Stunning! Enjoyed the 12km 3 bay walk from tidal river Spent More than 3 hours National Parks
Wilsons Promontory National Park is the southernmost tip of mainland Australia. Walk remote coastal bushland trails and swim at pristine beaches dominated by granite tors. Camp in comfort at family-friendly Tidal River or hike to a more secluded campsite. Either way, the local wombats, kangaroos and emus are waiting to meet you. Swim at Norman Beach or one of The Prom's more secluded beaches. Go snorkelling for a unique underwater view of Victoria's largest marine national park. Scale the granite peaks of Mount Bishop or Mount Oberon for panoramic views, or enjoy an overnight hike. In the north there's a remote and rugged wilderness to explore, while the south is home to the historic Wilsons Promontory Lightstation and Sealers Cove.See more..
4.5Point Nepean National Park(412 reviews) - National Park Temporarily closed - Closed until further notice National Parks
Point Nepean National Park is the most westerly point on the Mornington Peninsula and sits on one of the most treacherous coastlines in Victoria. Point Nepean played an important role in shaping the early settlement and defence of Australia. Walk or cycle through this rugged coastal landscape and learn about the history of the Quarantine Station, Fort Nepean and their surroundings. Explore military forts and tunnels, learn about the people who passed through the Quarantine Station — and see fascinating artefacts spanning back over 150 years. Or jump aboard the hop-on-hop-off Point Nepean shuttle service. Running between the Quarantine Station and Fort Nepean, it’s a great way to explore all the highlights of Point Nepean National Park.See more..
4.5Tarra Bulga National Park(121 reviews) - Nature at its best and more Monday: 12:00 AM - 11:59 PM National Parks • Parks
Tarra-Bulga National Park in South Gippsland is well known for its giant Mountain Ash trees, beautiful fern gullies and ancient myrtle beeches. Hidden within the Strzelecki Ranges, Tarra-Bulga National Park features lush fern-filled gullies, giant Mountain Ash and ancient Myrtle Beech. Visitors have long enjoyed strolling along one of the nature walks or picnicking beside a shady fern-lined creek. Walk to the impressive Corrigan’s Suspension Bridge, which stretches through the rainforest canopy, affording spectacular views of the lush fern gully on the forest floor below. Or picnic in a delightful setting, with three picnic areas; at the Visitor Information Centre, TarraValley and Bulga. Camping is not permitted within the park. Tarra-Bulga National Park is approximately 200 kilometres east of Melbourne. The park is reached from the Princes Highway at Traralgon by following Traralgon Creek Road to Balook. Alternatively the park can be reached from Yarram via the Tarra Valley Road or Bulga Park Road. Roads throughout the area are narrow and winding but offer marvellous scenery with panoramic views from several points, including Mount Tassie.See more..
4.5Great Otway National Park(101 reviews) - Superb experience Spent More than 3 hours National Parks • Parks • Hiking Trails
Great Otway National Park stretches from Torquay, along the world-famous Great Ocean Road and up through the Otways hinterland. Discover windswept coastlines and breathtaking waterfalls in tall mountain forests, walk the iconic Great Ocean Walk, immerse yourself in the Otway Lightstation's history, or surf some of the best breaks in Australia. Enjoy the great outdoors and explore the wonders of the Great Otway National Park. See the stunning coast by foot on the Great Ocean Walk, where nature unfolds at every step. Or drive the iconic Great Ocean Road. For longer stays, there are excellent camping opportunities whether you are looking for a family-friendly place to park your caravan or a solitary night under the stars.See more..
Mornington Peninsula National Park is a favourite of Melburnians looking to escape the nearby city. Experienced surfers flock to Gunamatta Beach, while rockpools at Sorrento Ocean Beach, close to town, are perfect for families. Dip into the excellent surf beaches of the Mornington Peninsula National Park. Tackle the waves of Gunnamatta, Flinders, Portsea and Rye ocean beaches. Step out on The Coastal Walk for spectacular coastal views. The two-day walk meanders along high clifftops, through coastal vegetation and past stunning ocean beaches. A haven for native wildlife such as kangaroos, Greens Bush is the largest fragment of native bushland remaining on the Mornington Peninsula.See more..
4.5Lake Eildon National Park(64 reviews) - Six Times The Volumne Of Water In Sydney harbour Spent More than 3 hours National Parks • Nature & Wildlife Areas
Camp by Lake Eildon and enjoy a whole world of watersports in a spectacular setting. Go swimming, canoeing, waterskiing, sailing and fishing in the shadow of the Victorian Alps. Enjoy bushwalking or cycling along a network of trails. You'll share the picture-perfect surroundings with kangaroos, wombats and a huge variety of beautiful birds. Take a day trip to Lake Eildon or stay overnight at one of the picturesque campgrounds. Boat, sail, waterski, canoe or kayak on the lake. Bring your own gear or hire from local providers. Take a walk and stop at Merlo Lookout or trek up to Blowhard Summit for unrivalled views over Lake Eildon and out towards Mount Buller or you could stay on a houseboat for a more sedate holiday.See more..
Absolutely gorgeous walk through one of the best areas of the Otways. I highly recommend taking shoes that you’re happy to get muddy as there are a number of spots where you are bound to get them dirty in wet weather. The track back requires a walk up a number of steps. See more..
Located on the beautiful stretch of the Great ocean road , Point Addis is a beautiful place for someone wanting to see the iconic Bells beach in Victoria, home of the Rip Curl Pro on the World Surfing Tour. See more..
Mount Eccles (Budj Bim) is a long dormant volcano. Budj Bim is the source of the Tyrendarra lava flow which extends over 50km to the southwest. Mount Eccles National Park is Victoria's first co-managed national park. The park is managed by Gunditjmara Traditional Owners and Parks Victoria. The park's tranquil crater lake and pleasant bushland surrounds make it a pleasant place for picnicking, camping and bushwalking. Nature trails follow the old crater rim. The campground is an attractive camping area which lies in protected hollows between rocky ridges from lava flows approximately 250 metres from the crater rim. Toilets, water (untreated, natural supply), hot showers and ten shared fireplaces are provided. The picnic ground at the Park has two sheltered gas barbecues with tables, and an information shelter. For cyclists and Four Wheel Drivers, a myriad of tracks are open and available to vehicles and mountain bikes to share. Or explore the park by foot. There's a variety of walking tracks in the area, catering for a range of fitness levels. Wear appropriate clothing to guard against leeches that inhabit damp areas.See more..
4.5Churchill Island Marine National Park(37 reviews) - Very pleasant afternoon Monday: 12:00 AM - 11:59 PM Bodies of Water • National Parks • Nature & Wildlife Areas
Located south of Rhyll, on the eastern shore of Phillip Island, in Western Port, Churchill Island Marine National Park extends from Long Point south of Rhyll township to the north point of Churchill Island and along the island's western shore to the bridge. Bird watching is a popular activity in the park. Many birds feed, roost and breed around the bay and you may be able to spot birds that have migrated from across the globe. Canoeing is an ideal way to explore the mangroves and estuarine conditions. Yachting is increasingly popular in the bays relatively tranquil waters. On calm days snorkelling and diving among the sea grass meadows will reveal a myriad of crustaceans fish and other marine species.See more..
4.5Warby Ovens National Park(31 reviews) - Return visit to the Pine Gully Nature Trail National Parks
This diverse park offers visitors the chance to explore many different landscapes, from the granite hills and woodlands of the Warby Ranges, the Box‐Ironbarks of Killawarra Forest, and the River Red Gum forests and wetlands of the heritage-listed Ovens River. Enjoy spectacular views, great walking and cycling, horse riding, canoeing, boating and fishing, or relax at your campsite and watch the local wildlife. Only 10 kilometres from Wangaratta, it’s easy to access for a day trip to enjoy walks, picnics, birdwatching, bike rides, horse riding or a scenic drive. The views from Ryan's Lookout and Kwat Kwat Lookout are exceptional, especially in winter, with snow-covered peaks in the distance.See more..
The wetlands and billabongs of the Gunbower forest are internationally recognised. A unique and diverse wonderland, when water flows along Little Gunbower Creek, the area is known for its spectacular birdlife. This is a great park for camping, fishing and relaxing on the bends of the Murray River. The park is ideal for camping and a range of water-based recreation. The river is great for fishing, as a breeding ground for native fish species such as Murray Cod and Golden Perch. Basic bush camping is available alongside the Murray River and Gunbower Creek on the island. Swimming is popular, particularly at the sandy river bend beaches. For boating ad canoeing, the five kilometre canoe trail at Safes Lagoon, near Koondrook in Gunbower State Forest, will take about two hours to complete (return). There are many short and long walks in the area. A 14km walking track near Koondrook will take you past the Eagle Tree and a number of cultural sites. Scenic drives - A leisurely half day drive, starting at Cohuna, links a number of historical, cultural and ecological sites. Gunbower National Park lies along the Murray River between Echuca and Koondrook around 250km north of Melbourne. Access to major entrances is via the Murray Valley Highway.See more..
The Glenelg River has carved a spectacular limestone gorge through the heart of Lower Glenelg National Park. Immerse yourself in the tranquil beauty of the landscape. Camp riverside and go fishing, paddle the Glenelg River Canoe Trail, follow the Great South West Walk or visit the spectacular Princess Margaret Rose Cave. Discover the unique beauty found within the lower reaches of the Glenelg River – from jagged limestone cliffs to riverside gum trees harbouring koalas. See the area on foot by tackling the Great South West Walk. Set out on a day, overnight or multi-day journey. If you don't have time to canoe or walk the river, a drive along its course is also spectacular. There are picnic areas to stop and take it all in.See more..
Little Desert National Park is more than a desert. Camp beside the Barringgi Gadyin, and enjoy bushwalks, birdwatching or four-wheel driving. The park has a number of marked, signposted walks, ranging from 30 minutes to three days duration. The best time to visit the park is between late winter and early summer when the temperatures are comfortable and the park is full of blossoms and wildflowers. The range of soil types in Little Desert National Park causes marked differences in vegetation. Many species of plants and animals have succeeded, on poor soils with little water, in creating a kind of arid landscape where survival depends on maintaining a delicate balance of natural forces.See more..
4.5Bunurong Marine National Park(22 reviews) - Fantastic coast line. Spent 2-3 hours National Parks • Nature & Wildlife Areas
As good as Great Ocean Road if not better. Don't get me wrong I LOVE the Great Ocean Road but it was a gorgeous sunny day. We unfortunately missed the caves as there was a car behind me and could not turn but stopped at the others and love them. Get down and enjoy the walks. All have something different to offer but must have good knees LOLSee more..
4.0Barmah National Park(22 reviews) - A must do Spent 2-3 hours National Parks • Nature & Wildlife Areas
Barmah National Park, together with the adjoining Millewa forest in New South Wales, forms the largest River Red Gum forest in the world. The complex ecology of the forest is closely linked to the Murray River and its flooding regime, creating a diverse natural habitat for a variety of wildlife, particularly waterbirds. With its majestic River Red Gums, sandy beaches and a large variety of wildlife, the Murray provides the ideal backdrop for camping and a range of water-based activities - days can be easily filled with fishing, horse riding, and bushwalking, swimming and boating.See more..
Take a trip back in time to the Victorian Goldrush at Castlemaine Diggings Heritage Park. Located at the heart of the central Victorian goldfields, this is a rare place where you can see authentic traces. Explore abandoned mines and settlements among shady Box-Ironbark woodlands. The Castlemaine Diggings harbour fascinating tales of the area’s golden past. Much of the gold-rush character has been retained. From the remains of house sites and puddling machines, to the gold mines and gullies that yielded fortunes. Castlemaine Diggings National Heritage Park is popular for a variety of activities. Enjoy bushwalking, scenic drives, cycling, picnics, exploring the mining relics and gold prospecting.See more..
The Lakes National Park is a peaceful bushland retreat in the Gippsland Lakes, fringed by the waters of Lake Victoria and Lake Reeve. The park includes Sperm Whale Head peninsula and Rotamah and Little Rotamah islands. Rotamah Island, accessible only by boat, is a bushland delight. Surrounded by Lake Victoria and Lake Reeve to the north and the dunes of the Ninety Mile Beach to the south, the island has clearly defined tracks offering exceptional views and bird watching opportunities. Lake Reeve is an important feeding and roosting habitat for waterfowl, and is one of Victoria’s most important areas for wading birds. A short walk will lead you from the Lookout Tower carpark down through a range of habitats to the shores of Lake Reeve.See more..
Located in the flat, semi-arid north-western corner of Victoria, Wyperfeld is one of Australia's most fascinating national parks. The central feature of this huge park is a chain of lake beds connected by Outlet Creek, the northern extension of the Wimmera River. The lakes only fill when the Wimmera River over-supplies Lake Hindmarsh to the south of Lake Albacutya. When it rains the semi-arid landscape is transformed by tiny desert plants that sprout from long-dormant seeds, carpeting the ground with clusters of flowers.See more..
3.5French Island National Park(8 reviews) - Unspoiled beauty of French Island National Parks • Islands • Nature & Wildlife Areas
French Island National Park has much to offer including unspoiled natural bushland and walking along beaches where your only companions are hundreds of wading birds. Experience wonderful walks and bike rides through a range of habitats. There are day, half day and shorter walks and rides starting at Tankerton Foreshore Reserve. French Island supports a large population of the Long-nosed Potoroo, as well as containing the most significant population of koalas in Victoria. The koalas reproduce so successfully that they eat themselves out of house and home. Each year over 200 are transferred to reserves in other parts of Victoria.See more..
Terrick Terrick National Park provides imposing views and contrasting landscapes. Keen nature lovers can embark on short or whole-day walks and discover many beautiful plants and animals. Birdwatchers in particular will enjoy the park’s diverse landscapes and rich birdlife. Nestled at the base of Mount Terrick Terrick you'll find the picnic area. Picnic tables, toilets and park information are provided. Behind the picnic area, a basic bush-camping experience is available. The picnic area is the ideal spot to start exploring the park. Possums Paddock and Yarran Paddock are great places to explore the grasslands. Start at the site of the former Davies Homestead and take a stroll through Possums Paddock.See more..
5.0Moggs Creek Picnic Area(5 reviews) - Fabulous spot for walks, quiet BBQ with real fires National Parks • Parks
If you are looking for respite from the wind, change of pace form beach... have s picnic here and head off up to a scenic spot looking out over the ocean. Good track for competent walkers but only 2 km up to the view return on a loop. Or take the nature trail, no more than 2 km You cross bridges over Moggs Creek walking through a valley The creek doesn’t flow in summer, in winter you get more birdsong and the sounds of bubbling brooks If you want waterfalls, head to Lorne. Seek out the information centre on the left after you cross the bridge going into Lorne All these walks are great after rain, muddy sometimes but ihhh the Eucalyptus scentSee more..
I have hiked through this park on my occasions over the years, and it wasn't until today that I noticed that you can't take dogs or cats there...but then it was never applicable to me until I got a pet. I noticed the sign as I drove in, so I went no further than the entry area today. There is a lovely BBQ area under sun dappled trees available for anyone who wants to stop for a break. There are information boards to read, you will notice my cat was even paying close attention to those-- although it could have been the sheer relief out of getting to go on a hike. I respected the signs for pets not going into the park and remained in the entry area today, but I can tell you from previous experience that there are some great hikes through this park for anyone with moderate to high fitness levels. ( That might be another reason since it's been awhile since I went :) )See more..
Great little known park in the south west. A great way to visit park is to drive the Wood rose and wine drive which runs between portland and heywood. I stopped at the beautiful and peaceful surrey ridge camp ground.while at this great spot it's worth going on a short hike down Tim's loop walk. Great opportunities to spot lots of wildlife. Another great spot is the jackass fern gully campground. A unique aspect of this park is that it allows horse riding.See more..
Located at the end of Mount Buffalo Road (last section unsealed). Good views of the Victorian Alps from the car park. Can walk to the top for excellent all round views in clear weather (which can change quickly here). Limited picnic facilities at car park.See more..
The Bay is Victoria’s marine gateway to the Great Australian Bight and the immense expanse of the Southern Ocean. Situated 20 km west of Portland and covering 2770 hectare this park protects part of a large coastal basalt formation in Western Victoria. These basalt rocks were formed from lava which cooled and hardened over the last million years. The park is framed by the cliffs of Cape Bridgewater to the east and the white sand dunes of Discovery Bay to the north. There is a rich diversity of fascinating marine life within this park due to the cold nutrient rich waters of the area. The deep Calcarenite reefs support technicolored sponge gardens whilst shallower reefs are covered in brown alga, Eckionia radiata. It's utterly stunning... it's one of those rare places where you can lose yourself in time and forget that the current world exists and that we hold but a small moment of time in the great scheme of things.See more..
This section of the Goulburn River is lined with River Red Gums and is an important wildlife corridor linking the mountains of the Great Dividing Range to the Murray River. The picturesque river has narrow strips of vegetation along its meandering banks, with the adjoining River Red Gum forests and woodlands providing a striking contrast to the adjacent farmland. The Lower Goulburn National Park and forests along the lower reaches of the Goulburn River are ideal for camping, fishing and canoeing. Sightsee and picnic with many views from high river banks, swim or fish in this fairly shallow section of the river which is enhanced by summer releases from Lake Eildon. Informal boat ramps are scattered along the river at popular access points.See more..
4.5Howitt Hut camping area(3 reviews) - Beautiful High Country Hut Monday: 12:00 AM - 11:59 PM Spent More than 3 hours National Parks • Hiking Trails • Off-Road & ATV Trails
We camped near Howitt hut while on our recent trip through the Victorian High Country. Built in 1899 and is located in the Alpine National Park on Howitt Plains. There were a few campers but we found a lovely little level spot not too far a walk from the pit toilet to pitch our tent. We had a great fire, watched the sunset and went for a walk down the road at dusk. During the night a dense fog rolled in and in the morning I was able to photograph the hut enveloped in fog. A very memorable experience.See more..
5.0Burrowa-Pine Mountain National Park(3 reviews) - Day hike up to the summit of Pine Mountain , Burrowa. National Parks • Nature & Wildlife Areas
Definitely recommend for adventure goers- and those keen to escape the rat race! Beautiful birds all around to spend the day with tooSee more..
Set in tall, shady eucalypt forest, Mount Samaria State Park offers a cool and quiet retreat for beautiful walks, camping and picnicking. The Mount Samaria range incorporates a variety of scenery with spectacular vistas over the Victorian Alps, granite outcrops, high waterfalls and historic remains. Explore the park by foot, mountain bike or scenic drive and discover its tranquility and beauty. During spring and early summer the forest is alive with brilliant displays of wildflowers. The park features a range of walking tracks to experience the semi-remote nature of the park. The lookouts let you experience spectacular views from Mt Samaria Summit, Rocky Point Lookout and Wild Dog Creek Falls. Within the park, Spring Creek Sawmill and Samaria Well offer camping and picnicking facilities. Walk-in campsites are at Wild Dog Falls Creek and Camphora and all sites have toilets and fireplaces. Mount Samaria State Park is 130kms north-east of Melbourne, 28kms south of Benalla on the Samaria Road via Swanpool, and 14kms north of Mansfield via the Whitfield Road. A gravel road traverses the range from north to south and, although steep and rocky in places, is open all year to most vehicles.See more..
3.5Mount Richmond National Park(3 reviews) - Lots of Koalas National Parks • Nature & Wildlife Areas • Hiking Trails
We took a short walk here from the picnic area and saw many koalas. Great place to have a picnic and appreciate natureSee more..
4.0Gerang Gerung Fauna Reserve(2 reviews) - Activated this park as part of the amateur radio program 'World Wide Flora & Fauna'. Points of Interest & Landmarks • National Parks
There are no dedicated walking trails or facilities in the park. The park is a great place for bird watching.See more..
Easily accessible by road, the park is a great place for bushwalks... the native flowers are scattered along the pathways. The trees with their varied colours are stunning and you can certainly lose yourself in the landscape. As you wander through the park, if you look up at the colours of the bark against the sky , you can find yourself catching your breath at times. The park hasn't got amenities that I noticed and some of the roads in the park are rough and it's recommended you only attempt them in a 4WD, but for the most part... it's accessible to everyone who wants to walk... all you need to do is pull into the park and pull over to one side. It's worth stopping if you want to stretch your legs.See more..
4.0Reef Hills State Park(2 reviews) - Reef Hills National Parks A haven for wildlife and native vegetation, Reef Hills State Park near Benalla is a great spot for a picnic, scenic drive, bushwalk, bike ride or horse ride. The park will delight visitors year-round, with wildflowers blooming in spring, wattles flowering in winter and large yellow Guinea-flowers on display most of the year. The park was worked for reef and alluvial gold in the early 1900s and today prospectors may be still be lucky enough to find gold. The forest is an important remnant of the original vegetation of the northern plains of Victoria and is valued by naturalists for its wide range of plant and animal life, including nationally significant flora and fauna. Enjoy picnics, scenic drives, bushwalking, horse riding, bird watching, bicycle riding and recreational prospecting. Picnic areas are provided, but there are no facilities for camping. Nearby Benalla has hotel, motel and campground accommodation. The park is about 200km north east of Melbourne, about 4km from Benalla. It is easily accessible from the Hume and Midland Highways.See more..
5.0French Island Marine National Park(1 review) - Take the Cowes to French Island and Stony Point Ferry Bodies of Water • National Parks • Nature & Wildlife Areas
The best way to get from Cowes to Melbourne is on the ferry that stops at French Island then goes to Stony Point where you pick up the train that goes into Melbourne (one simple transfer in Frankton). The stop between ferry and train is like a bird sanctuary with a great number of species flying from treetops around the train tracks. You purchase the Myki card at the station, board, and enjoy the ride!See more..
4.0Bridgewater Lakes(1 review) - Discovery Bay walk. Spent 1-2 hours National Parks
Visited Bridgewater Lakes on the Cape Bridgewater loop drive. Entrance opposite the Tarragul Caves. We did the Discovery Bay return walk from the car park. Took longer than expected and there is a large sand dune to climb at the end. Beautiful views from the top up and down the coast (refer photos). Worth the effort!See more..
Greater Bendigo National Park surrounds the city of Bendigo. This park protects some of the highest quality Box-Ironbark forest in north-central Victoria, along with mallee and grassy woodlands. Explore the park by car, bike or on foot. While most roads in the park are unsealed, they're suitable for car touring, cycling and walking. Horse riding is permitted on tracks through the Whipstick and Mandurang sections of the park. This is an ideal spot for nature study, birdwatching, bushwalking, picnics, horse riding and camping. Many signs of the gold rushes are scattered throughout the park. This includes alluvial diggings, old mining dams and water races, shafts and mullock heaps.See more..
Enter Victoria's largest remaining box-ironbark forest. Marvel at the diverse population of fascinating grass trees. Your destination is bushranger Captain Melville's Lookout.See more..
