Yarra Valley Parklands

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Yarra Valley Parklands

Yarra Valley Parklands is part of an Aboriginal cultural landscape in the traditional Country of the Wurundjeri People. Parks Victoria respects the deep and continuing connection that Traditional Owners have to these lands and waters, and we recognise their ongoing role in caring for Country.

Yarra Valley Parklands extend along the Yarra River and provide visitors with a wide range of recreational opportunities, from picnicking to canoeing and even camping.

The parks include Westerfolds, Banksia, Birrarrung and Candlebark parks, Yarra Flats, Sweeneys Flat and Longridge Park Camp.

The parklands form a significant 'backbone' of interconnecting trails, linear parks, wetlands and waterways throughout the metropolitan area. The ongoing effort revegetating the parklands, mostly with the aid of valued community groups planting about 30,000 trees per year, has seen the return of a number of significant wildlife species.

Things to do in the area

 
the Yarra River near Longridge Campground at Yarra Valley Parklands

Longridge Campground

Longridge Campground is a peaceful place to camp close to Melbourne. Nestled alongside the Yarra River, enjoy exclusive use of the campground, suitable for a large group of up to 40 people.
A river red gum in Banksia Park.

Banksia Park

The open space, playgrounds and picnic areas of Banksia Park make it a popular location for families of all ages. The dog-friendly park is perfect for cyclists, joggers and walkers.

Westerfolds Park

Situated beside the Yarra River in Templestowe, Westerfolds Park offers over 120 hectares of parkland perfect for picnicking, cycling, walking and canoeing.

Pettys Orchard

Pettys is one of Melbourne’s oldest commercial orchards, holding the largest collection of apple varieties on mainland Australia.

Wildlife

This park is well known for iconic Australian wildlife. Keep your eye out for:
Crimson Rosella
Echidnas
Kangaroos
Koalas
Lyrebirds
Platypus
Powerful owls
Wallabies

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.

Find a Licensed Tour Operator

How to get there

Yarra Valley Parklands

Need to know

Yarra Valley Parklands

Change of Conditions

Nature being nature, sometimes conditions can change at short notice. It’s a good idea to check this page ahead of your visit for any updates.

  • Ridge Picnic Area - Westerfolds Park (Yarra Valley Parklands (COM))

    Manor Loop Road Closure

    The Westerfolds Manor Loop Road and car park is closed to vehicle traffic for the last 150m. Drivers can park at the adjacent car park 100m below the Manor.

  • Birrarrung Park (Yarra Valley Parklands)

    Birrarung Park Playground removal

    Birrarung Park Playground Closed

    Due to significant age and ongoing safety concerns, the playground at Birrarung Park has been removed and the area returned to grassed parkland. The two swings have been retained and are available to use.

    The nearest playground is located at Banksia Park, Bulleen

Parks Victoria

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