The Sheoak Falls Walk weaves its way from the coastal woodland at the mouth of the Sheoak Creek and through wet forest to the hidden cascades of Sheoak Falls. This is one of the most popular waterfalls near Lorne and is a perfect break from your Great Ocean Road drive.
Sheoak Falls is a place of tranquillity and beauty just off the Great Ocean Road. Here, the waters of Sheoak Creek cascade 15m down a sheer rock face into a pool surrounded by trees.
It's a short walk from the carpark to the falls (although there are plenty of steps), so if you fancy a longer stroll, continue up the trail to see Swallow Cave. It's quite a climb, but you'll also see some alternative views of the falls along the way. This trail also requires a river crossing, so it might be impassable in the winter. At Swallow Cave, look out for Tree Martins, which live in the grotto during spring, summer and autumn. These birds use mud from the creek to build their nests.
For a longer and more challenging hike, you could park your car at Sheoak Picnic Area and walk the 3.6km trail (one way) to Sheoak Falls. Sheoak Picnic Area has better facilities than Sheoak Falls Carpark, including toilets and picnic benches.
As waterfalls are within a natural environment, you may encounter hazards. Follow our water safety advice to make sure your day out at Sheoak Falls is a safe and enjoyable one.
Changes to Great Ocean Road parks and campsites
From 1 July 2026, some parks and campsites along the Great Ocean Road will be managed by the Great Ocean Road Coast and Parks Authority (GORCAPA). Visit the GORCAPA website to see which parks GORCAPA manage.
This change is part of the transition of land management responsibilities to GORCAPA, helping support a dedicated and localised approach to managing the Great Ocean Road coast and parks.
Things to do
Sheoak Picnic Area
Erskine Falls
How to get there
Sheoak Falls
When you're there
Sheoak Falls is not to be confused with Sheoak Picnic Area, which is nearby and a popular trailhead for several waterfall walks. It is possible to walk to Sheoak Falls from Sheoak Picnic Area, but the trail is 3.6km one way and it is a challenging hike.
Need to know
Sheoak Falls
Accessibility
Sheoak Falls carpark has a good smooth surface and good circulation. The tracks nearby are not so accessible as they have steep sections and steps. There are no picnic facilities or toilets onsite. The nearest facilities are in Lorne.
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.
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.
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Aire River West Campground (Aire River Heritage River, Great Otway National Park GORCAPA)
Aire West Campground – Partial Seasonal Closure
Visitors are advised that sites 17–40 at Aire West Campground in Great Otway National Park are temporarily closed from 29 May to 25 September 2026 due to seasonal conditions.What to expect:Sites 17–40 are closed and unavailable for camping or vehicle access during this periodRemaining sites may still be accessible, subject to conditionsImportant information:The closure period may be extended if conditions remain too wet to safely support camping and vehicle accessVisitors are asked to follow any on-site signage and avoid closed areas to prevent damage to the campground and ensure safety.The Great Ocean Walk hike in camp site is not impacted.Entering into or camping within closed areas is subject to National Park regulationsWe appreciate your cooperation in helping protect the park during these conditions. -
Aire River East Campground (Great Otway National Park GORCAPA, Aire River Heritage River)
Aire East Campground – Seasonal Closure
Aire East Campground in Great Otway National Park will be closed from 29 May to 25 September 2026 as part of the annual seasonal winter closure.This closure is necessary to protect the campground and access tracks during periods of wet weather, when conditions are highly susceptible to damage from vehicle use and camping activity.What to expect:No visitor or vehicle access to the campground during the closure period.Campground and toilet facilities will be unavailable.Important information:The closure period may be extended if conditions remain too wet to safely support vehicle access and camping.Visitors are encouraged to plan ahead and consider alternative campgrounds.We appreciate your cooperation in helping protect the park environment during this time. -
Ironbark Basin Nature Trail (Great Otway National Park GORCAPA)
Surf Coast walk/ Ironbark Nature trail closure
The Ironbark Nature trail loop is undergoing storm damage repairs. It will be closed for the duration of the works. The section of the Surf Coast Walk between Ironbark carpark and Point Addis stairs will be closed also.
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Notices Affecting Multiple Sites
Great Otway Natonal Park - flood damge impact
Severe thunderstorms and flash flooding on 16 January 2026 caused significant damage across parts of the eastern Great Otway National Park.Recovery works are ongoing.We are pleased to advise that some areas have now reopened, while others remain closed to ensure public safety during assessment and repair work.The following areas are now open to visitors:- Moggs Creek Picnic Area
- Distillery Creek Picnic Area
- Ocean Track
- Castle Rock
- Sheoak Falls to Swallow Cave Track
Parks Victoria has reopened sections of the Kalimna Falls Walking Trail, providing:
- Access from Sheoak Picnic Ground
- Walking access to Lower Kalimna Falls
- Return via the same route or continuing through to Garvey Track
✅ Open sections are marked in green on park signage/maps
❌ Closed sections remain in red and must not be enteredVisitors should remain on marked open tracks and follow all onsite signage.
⚠️ Important Visitor Advice- Always follow posted signage and staff directions
- Stay within reopened (green-marked) track sections
- Do not enter closed areas under any circumstances
- Conditions may change without notice
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