Top 10 things to do in Victoria's parks this spring

Spring brings warmer days and vibrant flora. Victoria's parks are the perfect place to enjoy the outdoors and connect with nature.

Whether you're searching for things to do close to Melbourne, fun outdoor activities near you, or top attractions across the state, this guide will highlight the best spring experiences in Victoria's parks.

From wildflower spotting to strengthening your connection to history and Country, spring has something for all nature lovers.

 

1. Explore blossoming beauty in the gardens

Spring in Melbourne wouldn't be complete without a visit to a botanic garden at its colorful best.

The Dandenong Ranges Botanic Garden on Wurundjeri Country is a popular park for many Melbournians, but if you’re looking to avoid the crowds for a quieter, more serene experience, consider exploring other stunning gardens in the Dandenong Ranges.

Add a visit to Pirianda Gardens, Alfred Nicholas Memorial Gardens, George Tindale Memorial Gardens or R.J Hamer Arboretum to your list. All gardens offer visitors a more tranquil escape from busier botanic gardens.

No matter when you visit throughout the season, there’ll be something new to see. Read our 2024 Spring Flowering Guide for an insight into what flowers will bloom, and when. Remember to always leave the flowers untouched for others to enjoy.

Couple walking their dogs in Alfred Nicholas Gardens.

Enjoy the gardens with the company of your dog at Alfred Nicholas Memorial Gardens.

Colourful leaves on trees under white clouds and blue sky.

Visiting Pirianda Gardens is beautiful all year round.

2. Find flow on mountain biking trails

For those searching for active things to do in Melbourne, mountain biking in Arthurs Seat State Park or Lysterfield Park both on Bunurong Country is a must. 

Lysterfield Park is famous for hosting the 2006 Commonwealth State Mountain Bike Course and is great for all riding abilities, either as an after-work fitness ride or an early morning ride with family and friends. Arthurs Seat features a more rugged and technically challenging trail network with beginner green trails, the recently built Gunn Barrel trail with large jumps and several black diamond trails.

Spring's warmer temperatures can be ideal for cycling in parks as muddy trails have started to dry out following winter rain. Just remember to be mindful some trails might still be wet. If so, protect the vegetation and avoid widening trails by sticking to the trails and riding through the middle of puddles.

Panoramic views across Port Phillip & Mornington Peninsula from Arthurs Seat State Park.

Panoramic views across Port Phillip & Mornington Peninsula from Arthurs Seat State Park.

Lysterfield Park is one of the best places to mountain bike close to Melbourne, featuring trails for all abilities including many suitable for adaptive mountain bikes.

Lysterfield Park is one of the best places to mountain bike close to Melbourne, featuring trails for all abilities including many suitable for adaptive mountain bikes.

3. Run through coastal heathland trails

The Pines Flora and Fauna Reserve and Langwarrin Flora and Fauna Reserve on Bunurong Country are both renowned coastal heathlands which bursts into native Australian colour each spring. Their native orchids, many of which are quite rare, are a highlight of the wildflowers that bloom in spring. Rabbit Ears Orchid, Dwarf Greenhood Orchid and Spider Orchid are some of the flowers to be found. They’re also excellent spots for a jog or walk, with plenty of trails to explore, including:

 

The Pines Flora and Fauna Reserve

  • Orchard Circuit (3km, 45 minutes return) - This flat, short walk takes you alongside the former orchard research site, before looping around the remnants of Heathy Woodland.
  • Panorama Circuit (6.2km, 1 hour 45 minutes return) - Suitable for walking, running, or cycling. This circuit starts and finishes at Ballarto Road carpark and takes you through the dune system up to the lookout, with spectacular views across Melbourne.

 

Langwarrin Flora and Fauna Reserve

  • Military Track (1km, 15 minutes one-way) - For a taste of the native trees and scrub that once covered this landscape, venture down the flat, wide Military Track and wander beneath tall gum trees before moving into dense bushland.
  • Langwarrin Historical Trail (2.8km, 1 hour return) - Visit the reserve’s military sites and follow information signs along the Langwarrin Historical Trail.

 

If you're bringing your dog, please keep them on lead at The Pines Flora and Fauna Reserve to help protect the flora and fauna. Dogs are not permitted at Langwarrin Flora and Fauna Reserve.

Birds eye view of The Pines Flora and Fauna Reserve.

Visit The Pines Flora and Fauna Reserve in spring to see native wildflowers and orchids in bloom.

View of footpath from point of view of a visitor at Langwarrin Flora and Fauna Reserve.

Spend time exploring the network of trails, whilst carefully observing the diverse birdlife that visits Langwarrin Flora and Fauna Reserve.

4. Enjoy the desert without the heat

Spring is the perfect time to explore the lesser-known trails of Little Desert National Park, Wotjobaluk, Jaadwa, Jadawadjali, Wergaia and Jupagulk Country. Take a slow walk down one of the established track networks, and you'll be amazed at the array of tiny wildflowers and wildlife. 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 blossoming flowers.

Camp beside the Barringgi Gadyin (Wimmera River) and enjoy bushwalks, birdwatching or four-wheel driving. Moving quietly and listening carefully increases your chances of encountering lesser-seen birds and reptiles.

Body of water reflecting River Red Gums.

Camp beside Barringgi Gadyin fringed with River Red Gums.

Bright orange sunset views from the campground at Little Desert National Park.

Incredible sunset views from the campground.

5. Camp under the stars

Spring's mild weather makes it an ideal time for camping in Victoria's parks. Whether you're a seasoned camper or trying it for the first time, you'll find plenty of scenic spots to pitch your tent. Many parks offer well-equipped campsites, perfect for a weekend getaway with family or friends. Find the perfect campground for you or discover top family-friendly campgrounds near Melbourne.

Family and their dog camping at Banksia Bluff Campground, Cape Conran Coastal Park.

Banksia Bluff Campground is great for families and dogs, Cape Conran Coastal Park.

Couple soaking in the serenity at The Gums Campground, Kinglake National Park around a campfire.

Soak in the serenity at The Gums Campground, Kinglake National Park.

6. Join the Junior Rangers program

Looking for things to do with kids near you this spring school holidays? The free Junior Rangers program offers a range of activities that allow children to connect with nature and learn about Victoria's unique flora and fauna.

It’s a fun and educational outing for the whole family. Learn more about the Junior Rangers program and find an activity near you. 

Find fun, free ranger-guided activities for kids, like this group at Coolart Historic Area.

Find fun, free ranger-guided activities for kids, like this group at Coolart Historic Area.

Activities take place in parks across Victoria during the school holidays, like birdwatching at Grants Picnic Ground.

Activities take place in parks across Victoria during the school holidays, like birdwatching at Grants Picnic Ground.

7. Capture colourful sunrises and sunsets

Watching the sunrise or sunset is one of the most serene experiences you can have in nature, and each offers its own beauty. Either before or after a night of camping under the stars, take the time to rejuvenate in nature.

National parks like Point Nepean, Wilsons Promontory, and Grampians (Gariwerd) offer spectacular vantage points to enjoy golden hour. Don't forget your camera to capture these stunning moments.

Top tip: “Golden hour” is the last hour before sunset and the first hour after sunrise. This window is known as the best time for photographers to capture stunning photos in perfect light conditions.

Whisky Bay has stunning sunrises over its rocky coast at Wilsons Promontory National Park, like this pink and orange coloured evening.

Whisky Bay has stunning sunrises over its rocky coast at Wilsons Promontory National Park.

Hiking on the Grampians Peaks Trail has some spectacular views of the surrounding national park.

Hiking on the Grampians Peaks Trail has some spectacular views of the surrounding national park.

8. Go wildlife spotting

Spring is an excellent time for wildlife viewing and photography. Whether you're interested in spotting kangaroos, koalas, or birdwatching, the more time you spend in nature, the greater the chance of seeing something special. Read our tips for wildlife viewing.

See a variety of local wildlife in large bushland parks like this kangaroo standing in the shade.

See a variety of local wildlife in large bushland parks like Tower Hill Wildlife Reserve.

Wwhales breaching the surface at Cape Conran Coastal Park.

Capture breathtaking moments of whales breaching the surface at Cape Conran Coastal Park.

9. Connect with Country

Take the time this spring to immerse yourself in Victoria’s rich cultural history and learn about the stories and traditions of the land's Traditional Owners.

Places such as Tae Rak Aquacultural Centre in Budj Bim Cultural Landscape offer immersive experiences that connect you with the region's cultural heritage. You will have an opportunity to connect and learn in person about what these places mean to the Traditional Owners whilst being on Country.

If you're planning on visiting a park, take the time to learn about which Country you're on by exploring this Welcome to Country and Acknowledgments Map.

Information centres like Brambuk The National Park and Cultural Centre are great places to source the latest park information including walking, camping and touring. Knowledgeable park staff can help you discover famous hiking trails, beautiful waterfalls, spectacular mountain views and ancient Aboriginal rock art shelters. A unique range of traditional craft products, Australian made souvenirs and park maps are available in the gift shop to help you enjoy your stay.

Tae Rak Aquacultural Centre, Budj Bim Cultural Landscape. Image: Visit Victoria.

Tae Rak Aquacultural Centre, Budj Bim Cultural Landscape. Image: Visit Victoria.

Brambuk The National Park and Cultural Centre, Grampians (Gariwed) National Park. Image: Visit Victoria.

Brambuk The National Park and Cultural Centre, Grampians (Gariwed) National Park. Image: Visit Victoria.

10. Sign up for a free guided walk

Join a free, guided Park Walk led by trained volunteers. Explore somewhere new or add it to your regular wellbeing or fitness routine. Walking in nature can boost creative thinking, decrease stress levels and lower blood pressure.

Walks cater to all levels – easier for those who are new to walking or a little more challenging for people who have some previous walking experience.

Some walks include a catch up for a cuppa at the beginning or end if there is a café nearby. Find a Park Walk near you.

Park Walk volunteer standing with group of walkers along pathway.

Walking in nature is good for you, helping the whole family lead a happier, more active life.

Group of walkers following path next to tall trees and river bank.

Enjoy the beautiful trees and wildlife or just relax and catch up with friends or family.

Whether you're exploring near home, or further away, Victoria's parks offer so much to do this spring. Get out there and enjoy all that the season has to offer! Find more things to do in parks this spring. 

For more inspiration or exciting things to see and do in Victoria’s parks and reserves, subscribe to our monthly Outdoor Inspiration e-newsletter.

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