Explore
Long Forest Flora and Fauna Reserve
Long Forest Flora and Fauna Reserve is a haven for walking within close proximity to Melbourne on the doorstep of Bacchus Marsh and Melton. Classified by the National Trust, the park is rich with birdlife, spring wildflowers and ancient rock forms. The 600-hectare conservation reserve is unique in its geology and landform.
This protected woodland reserve is perfect for a day of bushwalking and birdwatching. A number of Grade 3 tracks lead walkers through rocky woodland slopes and along Coimadai Creek and Djerriwarrh Creek flats. The longest is the 8.5km track from Happy Valley Trailhead to Canopus Circuit Trailhead, but they all offer a rewarding hike for well-prepared and self-sufficient walkers.
The Reserve lists over 400 native plants and 160 bird species. The Bull Mallee at Long Forest is its only occurrence south of the Great Dividing Range. Taller trees including Grey Box, Red Box and Yellow Gum. Turkey Bush, Moonah and eleven wattle species also thrive here. Sixteen species of saltbush are found within the reserve, including the larger Fragrant Saltbush which grows to over a metre tall.
Keep an eye out for Echidnas, Koalas, Eastern Grey Kangaroos and Black Wallabies. Brushtail Possums and Sugar Gliders are active by night. Birdwatchers will want to grab their field guide and listen for the distinctive birdcalls of the Jacky Winter, Speckled Warbler, Red-capped Robin, Rufus Whistler, Crested Bellbird, Diamond Firetail and the nocturnal Barking Owl. Many skinks, toads, frogs, spiders, ants, moths, butterflies and beetles are part of this complex ecosystem.
Dogs are not permitted in the reserve, in order to protect this important conservation space and its flora and fauna. There are no campgrounds, drinking water or toilets in the reserve, but visitors can enjoy a picnic at the Happy Valley Trailhead.
Things To Do
Walking in Long Forest
Birdwatching at Long Forest
Wildlife
Keep your eyes peeled for:
Tours and adventure experiences in parks
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How to get there
Long Forest Flora and Fauna Reserve
When you're there
Download the Long Forest Flora and Fauna Reserve for more information about the park and a map.
Help us care for the park:
- No dogs, cats, or other pets allowed
- No toilets or rubbish bins are provided and camping is not permitted in this small reserve, so please be self-sufficient with your drinking water and take all rubbish with you when you leave
- No fires permitted
- Solid fuel heating compounds for BBQs are not permitted at any time during the year
- No drones or Remotely Piloted Aircraft
- No firearms allowed
- No generators
Need to know
Long Forest Flora and Fauna Reserve
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.
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.
Safety in nature
To ensure that you and your companions stay safe, always remember that the natural environment can be unpredictable. Before you go, take a look at our safety tips and check our changed conditions and closures information for a great visit.
In the summer months the temperature will be hot, which provides suitable environments for reptiles such as snakes that may be dangerous if provoked. Please be aware of where you walk, stick to the tracks and leave wildlife alone.