Lerderderg State Park: A Natural Escape near Melbourne

Located in Victoria, Lerderderg State Park offers a diverse landscape of grasslands, forests, and the awe-inspiring Lerderderg Gorge, carved by the Lerderderg River. The park lies within easy reach of Melbourne, Bacchus Marsh, and Ballarat, making it a perfect destination for a day trip or a longer exploration.

The park holds cultural significance as part of the traditional lands of the Wurundjeri People. Parks Victoria acknowledges their enduring connection to this land and their ongoing role in its care.

Visitors can choose from a variety of activities. O’Brien’s Crossing campsite in the north serves as a starting point for several walking tracks. The Lerderderg Track, meanwhile, stretches from Blackwood in the northwest to Bacchus Marsh in the south, offering a multi-day hike for experienced walkers.

The park is a haven for native wildlife, with wallabies, echidnas, wedge-tailed eagles, and cockatoos being commonly spotted.

Shaws Lake and O’Briens Crossing are ideal locations for a picnic, while those seeking a historical touch can explore the remains of an old water race. Hikers can embark on sections of the Great Dividing Trail, or enjoy a leisurely stroll along the river from Mackenzies Flat Picnic Area.

Despite its proximity to Melbourne, Lerderderg State Park offers pockets of true remoteness. The Lerderderg Gorge, a dramatic natural feature, cuts through the park and can be viewed from various points, with O’Briens Crossing in the north and Mackenzies Flat in the south offering particularly scenic vistas.

Families can enjoy a barbecue by the river and a gentle walk to Grahams Dam, while the Lerderderg Campground provides a comfortable base for camping amidst the woodland.