Explore
Cobaw Conservation Park protects approximately 2,500 hectares of forest and woodland north-west of Lancefield. Formerly Cobaw State Forest, the park sits within a rural landscape and plays an important role in protecting native vegetation and wildlife habitat across central Victoria.
The park is recognised as an important ecological link between central-west Victoria and the eastern highlands. Forested ridges, valleys and woodland habitats provide refuge for many native species and support a range of woodland birds and other wildlife. Records from the area include several threatened species, highlighting the significance of the park's conservation values.
For thousands of years this landscape has formed part of the Countries of the Taungurung and Wurundjeri Woi Wurrung peoples. Today, Cobaw Conservation Park protects important natural and cultural values while continuing to provide opportunities for people to enjoy and experience the outdoors.
The park provides opportunities for walking, nature observation, cycling, trail bike riding and four-wheel driving on designated roads and tracks. Cobaw Visitor Area provides a convenient starting point for exploring the surrounding forest and remains a popular meeting point for visitors. Whether visiting for a short stop, a day of recreation or an opportunity to experience native forest close to Melbourne, the park offers a peaceful bushland setting for exploring.
Things To Do
Explore forest roads and trails
Experience nature and wildlife
Picnic at Cobaw Visitor Area
Cobaw Conservation Park
The park protects habitat for a range of woodland birds and native mammals, including threatened species recorded within Cobaw Conservation Park. Keep an eye out for:
Tours and adventure experiences in parks
One of the best ways you can get into nature is with a Licensed Tour Operator.
There are more than 400 Licensed Tour Operators across Victoria who are ready and waiting to help you experience and connect with Victoria’s spectacular parks and waterways.
Discover more than 60 different types of nature-based experiences including hiking, mountain biking, boating, four-wheel driving, indigenous culture tours, birdwatching, surfing, diving and so much more.
Licensed Tour Operators know all the best places to go and will plan and prepare your visit to ensure you are safe and can enjoy your nature-based adventure to the fullest.
How to get there
Need to know
Accessibility
Visiting a park can be more of a challenge for people with disabilities, however in Victoria there are a wide range of facilities to help people of all abilities enjoy our wonderful parks around the state.
Assistance dogs are welcome in Parks Victoria parks and reserves. Entry requirements apply for parks and reserves that are usually dog prohibited, such as national parks.
Safety in nature
Thinking of visiting Cobaw Conservation Park? Here are a few things to consider before leaving home:
- Carry sufficient drinking water, particularly during warmer weather.
- Plan ahead and bring a detailed topographical map.
- Wear appropriate footwear when exploring forest roads and recreation areas.
- Check for fire and severe weather warnings before your visit.
- Mobile phone reception may vary across different parts of the park.
- Trail bike riders, cyclists and walkers may share some areas. Please be aware of other visitors.
- Check park conditions before travelling.
How we keep it special
Cobaw Conservation Park protects significant forest and woodland habitat within a largely cleared landscape. The park provides an important ecological link between central-west Victoria and the eastern highlands and helps conserve habitat for woodland birds and other native wildlife while supporting appropriate recreation opportunities.
Cobaw Visitor Area provides a central point for accessing roads, tracks and recreation opportunities throughout the park.