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Looking for ideas? There are so many ways you can get into nature at any time of year.

Be inspired and start planning your next nature escape right here!

Something for every season

Get into nature all year round with a variety of outdoor activities, scenic attractions and camping options. Bushwalking and hiking are popular in the cooler months of the year, whilst Victoria's bays, lakes and rivers provide the perfect place to cool down from the summer heat.
Two people walk across a dry pink salt lake.

Five great winter hikes in north-west Victoria

The days might be getting shorter, but don’t rush to pack away your hiking boots. Getting out into nature in the crisp, clear days of winter is invigorating in a whole new way.

Top spots for a coffee and a warming winter stroll

Instead of curling up on the couch as the cold sets in, why not enjoy the special pleasures the cooler weather brings? This winter, get into nature in one of the most rewarding ways: with a friend, a hot drink, and a relaxing stroll.
A mother and daughter in front of the Point Hicks Lighthouse and cottages.

Winter adventures by the sea

There’s something spectacular about being close to the sea in winter. The fresh, salty air, the open, desolate shorelines, the marvelling views – these, and more are on offer if we step outside our cosy dwellings and visit Victoria’s rugged coast.
Salmon-sun orchid Woowookarung Regional Park

Spring flowers in bloom

Spring brings new life and with it, an incredible variety of flowers blooming across our many parks. As the weather warms up, escape your winter hibernation and enjoy the vibrant colours that come with the season.
Three friends canoe through Lake Elizabeth infront of a back drop of ferns and old growth forest.

Best places to cool off this summer — that aren’t the beach!

If you’re looking to avoid the beach crowds this summer, but still want to jump in a body of cool water, check out these great spots.
A couple looks out of the mountains from The Horn, Mount Buffalo National Park

Five reasons to choose mountains this summer

Are you still pondering what to do this upcoming summer? We’re here to tell you why Victoria’s mountain peaks – those alpine landscapes, escarpments and grassy high plains across our state– should be top of your list, even once the snow has melted.
A young couple walk through a cave in Budj Bim National Park

Top places to escape the summer crowds

If you’re looking to escape the crowds, enjoy the great outdoors and learn more about some of the most beautiful places in Victoria, then these places are a must-see this summer.
Autumn leaves in the George Tindale Memorial Garden in the Dandenong Ranges National Park.

The best parks to visit for Autumn colour

Autumn is a fantastic time of year to visit our parks. As the leaves turn, you’ll be surrounded by stunning displays of colour. Visit these parks to get that perfect snap of autumn leaves.

Explore on foot

From easy walks to challenging hikes, find the trail that's right for you.
A three year old boy leads his mum and younger brother through the forest near Grants Picnic Ground.

10 ways to walk in nature

With some of Australia’s best green spaces and walking trails, we’ve put together 10 ways for you to get moving in Victoria’s parks. So, let’s hit pause and go for a walk.
Two friends walking along the Rainforest Gallery trail in the Yarra Ranges National Parkl

5 best beginner hikes in Yarra Ranges National Park

Immerse yourself in lush temperate rainforests with these five top beginner-friendly hikes and nature walks close to Melbourne.
A young couple walking their dog across a bridge with two friends following behind

Victoria's dog-friendly walking trails

While dogs aren’t allowed in our national and state parks, there's still plenty of great places you can get into nature with your pooch. So, grab a lead and a handful of treats, whistle up the dog and head for the park.
A grandmother watching her grandson happily walking while his mother pushes his younger brother in a pram at Jells Park

Top 10 pram-friendly walks

Getting out into nature with young children is great for everyone’s wellbeing. With the little one strapped into the pram they can learn about nature and discover many of the beautiful places around Melbourne and across Victoria.
Two people walk across a dry pink salt lake.

Five great winter hikes in north-west Victoria

The days might be getting shorter, but don’t rush to pack away your hiking boots. Getting out into nature in the crisp, clear days of winter is invigorating in a whole new way.
Three friends enjoy a picnic on the grass in front of the historic Wallace Hut.

Top circuit walks

There's nothing better than a circuit walk taking in great scenery and interesting natural and cultural landmarks. For a taste of Victoria's best, check out this selection on your next getaway.

Marvel at Victoria's natural wonders

Victroria's diverse landscapes have much to offer. Parks contain the best of Victoria's natural riches – so get into nature and marvel at our natural wonders.
The green ferns and mountain ash that line the roads of the black spur.

The forest giant - Mountain Ash

Standing in the heart of a tall forest, it’s hard not to feel small. Feel the wonder as you look up at the forest giants – towering trees that stretch into the sunlight. With some of these giants more than 300 years old, they remind us of our place in the world.
Aerial view of the pink lake at Westgate Park

Everything you need to know about Victoria's pink lakes

It may come as a surprise, but these are the natural changing colour of some of Victoria’s lakes. These bubblegum pink lakes are a natural wonder that many will never get to see, but there are a few right here in Victoria.
The view of the rock formations at Hollow Mountain in the Grampians National Park.

Sheer beauty: 8 spectacular rock formations in Victoria

We’ve picked eight of the state’s most-beautiful, but least-known cliffs and rock formations for you to get that perfect landscape shot. Bold colours, dramatic formations, or beautiful lighting, each of these cliffs is a sight to behold.
Snorkelling at Barwon Bluff Marine Sanctuary

Discover an underwater world

If you’re looking for the best places to see underwater ecosystems and encounter marine wildlife, look no further! We’ve rounded up some of the best ways to explore marine protected areas. So, pack your togs, wetsuit, a mask and snorkel and head to the coast!

Enjoy your favourite activities

Or maybe it's time to try something different? Enjoy a day of relaxation and contemplation, learn something new, or get your adrenaline fix with some challenging outdoor adventure.
Couple enjoying a sunset picnic at Seaford Pier

Free things to do in nature near Melbourne

Great free activities close to Melbourne that will have you enjoying nature without breaking the bank.
A tent set up on grass in a coastal landscape

Point Nepean Discovery Tents

Located within the historic Quarantine Station precinct, the pre-pitched Discovery Tents offer a unique opportunity to camp under canvas within the idyllic coastal Point Nepean National Park. The pre-pitched Discovery Tents at Point Nepean National Park are available from September to April each year.
A family take in the view of the Yarra Ranges from the elevated platform at Mt Donna Buang.

Unique tall forest experiences

Victoria’s tall forests are magical all year round, offering a cool escape in summer and a misty wonderland in winter. Pack a bag, charge your phone and get ready to recharge your soul through these unique experiences in Victoria’s incredible tall forests.
Two women walk in front the Garfield Water Wheel near Castlemaine.

Explore the rich history of the Goldfields

Victoria’s central goldfields around Castlemaine, Maldon, and Hepburn, on Dja Dja Wurrung Country, have some of the most intact remains of the 1850s gold rush anywhere in the world. If you enjoy ornate historic architecture, learning about life on the goldfields, and discovering the techniques used by miners during the gold rush then a trip to these parks in the area is a must.
Picture of Lysterfield lake with families enjoying water activities and swimming at the beach

Day trips without the long drive

Getting out of the city and into nature with friends and family is a great way to spend a weekend or day out over the holidays. One of the highlights of living in Melbourne is that you don’t always have to travel long distances or stay overnight to get your dose of the great outdoors.
Tram on St Kilda Road in Melbourne with city skyline in background

Get into nature without a car

We've put together a list of parks around Melbourne which are easily accessible on public transport, so you don't need your own set of wheels to get there.
Two campers relax at their campsite after a long paddle.

Choose your adventure at these camping spots

Now is the perfect time to get out and camp under the stars. Before you pitch your tent, spend the day exploring the nature around you. There’s lots of ways to enjoy our parks — whether you’re looking for a challenge, to learn something new or to just relax with family and friends.
Stargazing in the Murray Sunset National Park.

Fun things to do in nature after dark

Just because darkness is falling doesn’t means parks aren’t great places to experience, as long as it’s done safely. In fact, there are some special experiences to be had in parks at dusk or after dark.
A family plays on the adventure playground at Braeside Park.

Melbourne's best park playgrounds

Kids can get outdoors and enjoy nature at one of the many fabulous playgrounds in Victoria's urban parks. With playscapes designed for all ages and abilities, you're sure to find a playground perfect for your family.
Common fringe myrtle flowers in different life stages

5 tips to get the best wildflower photos

Spring means wildflowers are in full bloom across our parks – it’s a great time to get outdoors with your camera to take some spectacular photos.

Nature is good for you

Did you know that viewing natural scenes lowers blood pressure, reduces stress and boosts wellbeing? Put simply, nature is good for you! Why not go into a beautiful park today?
Two people take a mindfulness walk in Kinglake National Park.

7 Days of Mindfulness in Nature

Mindfulness is a simple form of meditation that focuses on the present moment through paying attention, in a non-judgmental manner, to your senses and surroundings. Practicing mindfulness in nature is a great way to achieve a sense of balance and peace, and to connect with the places that are most meaningful to us.
A group take a volunteer led tour through the Flying Fox environments on the banks of the Yarra River in Yarra Bend Park

The amazing health impacts of nature

We all know that national parks are good for our precious flora and fauna; but did you know that parks are also good for people? Visiting your local park or exploring one of Victoria’s diverse landscapes offers everything from short walks to snorkelling and improves your wellbeing at the same time.
A mountain biker leading another down a rocky trail at Lysterfield Park

Outdoor fitness and adventure in Melbourne

We know that spending time in nature is good for our health and wellbeing, so why not boost your fitness time with some fresh air. We’ve rounded up a list of parks around Melbourne with outdoor activities to help you switch off, detox from the digital and soak up some sunlight.
A couple walking along St Kilda Pier

28 ways to reconnect with nature

Just head outside and you can expect lower blood pressure, reduced stress and boosted sleep quality. So, whether you’re looking to camp under a blanket of stars or simply explore your neighbourhood, parks, coastlines, forests and community gardens are here to help you relax, restore and recharge.
A couple follow a walking path through luscious rain-forest ferns.

Connect to the medicine of the forest

You might be familiar with the special sense of peace that comes with being immersed in nature. But did you know that the health benefits of spending time in our parks go far beyond simple relaxation?
Two women practice yoga in Albert Park.

The health benefits of nature in winter

If you’re inspired to tend to your health this winter, here are just some ways you can get into nature and reap all of its health benefits.

Sharing nature's stories

Find out what makes our parks special. From the plants and animals that live there to the people who protect it, get to know nature a little better.
Kara Moana Healy, the first female park ranger in Victoria - Tarra Bulga National Park

Meet Victoria's first female park ranger

Born in New Zealand in 1904, Kara moved to Australia with her family when she was still a small child. Her career as a park ranger started in her midlife, when she met and married her second husband, Jim Healey. In 1949, the pair moved to Tarra Valley, now known as Tarra-Bulga National Park, where Jim had been working as ranger for several years.
Four cultural heritage rangers walking on Dja Dja Wurrung Country

Woven Together By Spirit

For many Victorians, Castlemaine Diggings is synonymous with the gold rush: that famous period in the late 1800s when thousands of migrants flocked to Central Victoria to seek their fortunes on the gold fields. But Castlemaine Diggings Heritage National Park and its surrounding areas have a history much older and richer than the precious metal industry that briefly but dramatically occupied the landscape.
Studley Park Boathouse.

Your favourite Melbourne parks have fascinating pasts and exciting futures

Our urban parks haven’t always been as they are today. A visit to urban parks can offer a glimpse into Melbourne’s past, from the buildings that remain to the variety of native plants and their unique conservation values. Journey through time in some of our urban parks and discover the exciting developments that will allow future generations to keep enjoying these parks.
Researchers prepare a dig site at Yallock-Bulluk Marine and Coastal Park

Discover a history of fossils at Yallock-Bulluk Marine and Coastal Park

Along the coast of Yallock-Bulluk Marine and Coastal Park, stretching from San Remo to Inverloch, the waves are unearthing precious relics that have lain buried in the rock for millions of years. This stretch of coastline is home to some of the richest fossil sites in Australia, and here, new clues from the distant past are constantly surfacing.
A couple follow a walking path through luscious rain-forest ferns.

Connect to the medicine of the forest

You might be familiar with the special sense of peace that comes with being immersed in nature. But did you know that the health benefits of spending time in our parks go far beyond simple relaxation?

Seven unexpected things found in our parks

When you think of Victoria’s parks, the first things that comes to mind are probably found on land – mountains, trees and grassy plains. However, did you know that Parks Victoria also manages 30 marine protected areas? What you’ll find there might surprise you!
A weedy seadragon swims along near the sea bed.

Meet some of our unique marine life

Marine national parks and sanctuaries exist to protect Victoria’s unique and diverse marine ecosystem, and the many plants and animals that live in them. Meet some of the marine life that these parks protect.

Get ready for nature

Ensure you plan for your next road trip, camping trip, or daytrip. Here’s a couple of ways you can make sure you stay safe in nature.
Friends relaxing in front of their campsite at Stapylton Campground, Grampians National Park

Guide to free camping in Victoria this summer

Here’s how to secure your free spot and make the most of your camping trip into nature.
A couple camping along the Glenelg River at Lower Glenelg National Park

Going Camping? Our rangers give us the low down

To help you, your friends and your family have a safe, stress-free, and well-planned stay in Victoria’s incredible parks and natural landscapes our rangers have shared their know-how in these handy tips. 
A couple enjoy a coffee at Bay of Islands, Port Campbell National Park

How to plan the perfect day trip

Day trips can be a wonderful way to explore the natural beauty of our state without breaking the bank or expending too much time or energy planning a big getaway. Our park rangers have compiled a set of insider tips to get visitors #ReadyForNature while day tripping this summer.
A couple walk out into a coastal lake at Croajingalong National Park.

Stay cool, stay safe

Whether you're a white-water adventure-seeker, casual canoe day-tripper or you want a family-friendly swimming hole, Victoria’s parks are the perfect place to make a splash this summer. However you’re cooling off this summer, make sure you’re ready for nature by planning ahead.

Virtual backgrounds for your next online meeting

With these stunning backdrops you can (virtually) be surrounded by nature at your favourite park. Just click on an image below, and it will open up in a new tab. Right-click and save the image to your computer. Then follow the upload instructions from your online meeting application.
Herons Reef, Castlemaine Diggings National Heritage Park

Herons Reef, Castlemaine Diggings National Heritage Park

Step back to the gold mining era of the 1850’s at Herons Reef, Castlemaine Diggings National Heritage Park.
Mount William, Grampians National Park

Mount William, Grampians National Park

Take in the stunning view of the Grampians National Park from Mount William.
Hopetoun Falls, Great Otway National Park

Hopetoun Falls, Great Otway National Park

Sit amongst the lush ferns at the base of Hopetoun Falls, Great Otway National Park.
Jells Park

Jells Park

Relax on the vast lawns amidst tall gum trees at Jells Park in Melbourne’s south-east.
The Horn lookout, Mount Buffalo National Park

The Horn, Mount Buffalo National Park

Bask in the blue sky and enjoy the view from The Horn lookout, Mount Buffalo National Park.
Murray Sunset National Park

Murray-Sunset National Park

Enjoy the tranquil calm of the rugged bushland landscape at Murray-Sunset National Park.
Twelve Apostles, Port Campbell National Park

Twelve Apostles, Port Campbell National Park

Look out onto the iconic view of the Twelve Apostles at sunset, Port Campbell National Park.
Whisky Bay, Wilsons Promontory National Park

Whisky Bay, Wilsons Promontory National Park

Sunset on the beach amongst the granite rock formations at Whisky Bay, Wilsons Promontory National Park.
Wilsons Promontory Marine National Park

Wilsons Promontory Marine National Park

Admire the delicate coral structures of our underwater parks at Wilsons Promontory Marine National Park.
Yarra River

Yarra River

Unwind on the calm waters and clear reflection of the Yarra River.
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