Womin-Dji-Ka (Welcome)

Castlemaine Diggings National Heritage Park is part of the traditional lands of the Dja Dja Wurrung People. The Dja Dja Wurrung people’s rights were recognised through a Recognition and Settlement Agreement with the State of Victoria in March 2013. The Dja Dja Wurrung People maintain a close and continuing connection to Djandak, their traditional Country.

In the southern section of Castlemaine Diggings Heritage Park is Vaughan Mineral Springs. Take a stroll along the Loddon River and spot the various birdlife. Make sure you stop and sample the mineral water along the way!

The large open grassy areas are ideal for family picnics. Children will love the giant slide and the opportunity to splash in the river on a hot summer’s day. Toilets, picnic tables, a shelter and free electric barbecues are provided.

Want to stay a little longer? Pitch your tent on the hill above the visitor area. With access to all the amenities of the picnic area, this is a popular family campground. Please note, dogs are not permitted.

Take a short walk from Vaughan Springs along the Goldfields Track to the Central Springs Heritage Site. You'll find the remains of a Chinese market garden. This peaceful spot is also great for wildlife and birdwatching.

Not far from Vaughan Springs, you can pull over and enjoy the view over Red Knob. This extraordinary landscape was created by sluicing – using a high-pressure water hose to wash away the soil. The result is an other-worldly landscape of dramatic red cliffs.

Bring a picnic to Glenluce Mineral Spring and enjoy the sounds of birdsong while exploring the intriguing rock formations in this tranquil bend in the Loddon River.

Another easy to explore spot is Irishtown. The landscape around is marked by the extensive remains of the early gold rush. This includes shallow diggings, a ruined house site and other signs of settlement.