Lerderderg State Park

Lerderderg State Park

Lerderderg State Park

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    Lerderderg State Park

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

    The Lerderderg River has carved a deep and picturesque gorge through this rugged park located within easy reach of Melbourne, Bacchus Marsh and Ballarat. Picnic at Shaws Lake or O'Briens Crossing, follow an old water race and hike part of the Great Dividing Trail, or simply stroll along the river from Mackenzies Flat Picnic Area.

    Although this park is just an hour's drive from Melbourne, it feels truly remote in many areas. See the Lerderderg River Gorge which dominates and divides it in two from O'Briens Crossing in the north to Mackenzies Flat in the south. Experienced hikers will be rewarded with dramatic views.

    Bring the family and enjoy a barbecue by the river then take a gentle stroll upstream to Grahams Dam. Set up camp at Lerderderg Campground, which is a popular spot set in woodland.

    Things To Do

     
    Two women walk an Australian Cattle Dog alongside a rocky creek.

    Amblers Crossing

    Camping is permitted at Amblers Crossing. Amblers Crossing is 4WD or walk-in access only and due to the terrain and track surface is accessible in dry weather only.
    A man wearing a blue shirt and jeans walks along the Back Byers Track with two companions.

    East Walk and Cowan Track Loop

    The East Walk and Cowan Track Loop is a challenging but rewarding day trip for experienced hikers wanting to capture that feeling of remoteness while remaining close to Melbourne.
    A couple sit around a campsite and welcome their friends to their campsite as they walk in.

    Lerderderg Campground

    Lerderderg campground is five kilometres from O'Brien's Crossing on Upper Chadwick Track and has picnic tables, toilets and fireplaces.
    A family stops for lunch at MacKenzie's Flat Picnic Area

    Mackenzies Flat

    Mackenzies Flat Picnic Area, at the end of the Lerderderg Gorge Road, is a popular spot for a picnic.There are toilets, electric barbecues and picnic tables.
    Three friends walk up the track from O'Briens crossing.

    OBriens Crossing

    Walking is a great way to discover the park. From O'Briens Crossing there are a number of walks catering for a range of fitness levels and time constraints. There are also picnic tables and toilets at the crossing.

    Lerderderg State Park

    This area is well known for its wildlife. Keep an eye out for:

    Koalas
    Kangaroos
    Wallabies

    Tours in the area

    Bushwalking, four-wheel driving, horse riding, kayaking, rock climbing and mountain biking are just some of the many activities you can experience in Victoria's parks.


    If you want to try something new or meet some like-minded people on your next visit to a park, contact a licensed tour operator.


    Parks Victoria licenses tour operators who are experts in these activities and more. They will help you get the most out of your visit.

    View all local tours

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    How to get there

    Lerderderg State Park

    Lerderderg State Park

    When you're there

    Download the Lerderderg State Park Park visitor guide for more information about the park and the plethora of experiences to be had within its borders. 
     

    When to go

    Camping & accommodation

    Fees do not apply to these campgrounds. No bookings are taken for campgrounds where fees do not apply.  Camping is first in, first-served. Check out these locations.
    Check availability

    Need to know

    Lerderderg State Park

    Accessibility

    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.

    How we keep it special

    The Management Plan for Lerderderg State Park and Werribee Gorge State Park directs management of both parks. In January 2018, the plan was amended following a risk assessment of camping at O’Brien’s Crossing, Lerderderg State Park. The amendment prohibits camping at O’Brien’s Crossing and directs that the area be managed as a day visitor area. 

    Lerderderg State Park

    Work Centre
    219A Main St
    Bacchus Marsh VIC 3340
    13 1963
    Two hikers reach the summit of Mount Nelse at Bogong High Plains
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