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Paddys Ranges State Park
Womin-Dji-Ka (Welcome).
Paddys Ranges State Park is one of six Aboriginal Title parks in Central West Victoria, jointly managed by the Dja Dja Wurrung Clans Aboriginal Corporation and Parks Victoria. For more information on Joint Management, please visit the Dja Dja Wurrung Clans Aboriginal Corporation and Dhelkunya Dja Land Management Board who oversee implementation of the Joint Management Plan 2018 - see relevant strategy and resources documents.
Located north west of Melbourne, this beautiful bushland is a stronghold of Box-Ironbark and is a important conservation refuge for endangered plants and animals. Wander the park as it bursts into colour with spring wildflowers or discover relics and reminders of its gold mining past.
The park owes its name to an Irish miner by the name of Paddy who lived in the area in the 1800s. From the 1840s the area was used for grazing, gold mining, timber harvesting, eucalyptus oil and honey production. In 1951, the Maryborough Field Naturalists Club began pushing for the protection of the park’s unique Box-Ironbark forest. In 1989, Paddys Ranges State Park was reserved. The park was increased to 1,954ha in October 2002 to conserve and enhance what remains of the Box-Ironbark forests and woodlands of north-central Victoria.
Today, the park is a haven for plants and animals. With more than 230 species of wildflowers listed in the forest, you won't want to miss a springtime visit. The forest walk from the campground to the picnic area is another great way to explore the park.
More than 140 species of birds have been recorded in the park, including the rare Swift Parrot. Peregrine Falcons, a threatened species in Victoria, nest in the park and majestic Wedge-tailed Eagles can often be seen circling above. As you explore the park, you might also spot wallabies, kangaroos and echidnas. The park is also home to the threatened Brush-tailed Phascogale.
Things To Do
Bushwalking at Paddys Ranges State Park
Prospecting at Paddys Ranges State Park
Camping at Paddys Ranges State Park
Picnicking at Paddys Ranges State Park
Paddys Ranges State Park
This area is well known for its wildlife. Keep an eye out for:
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.
How to get there
Paddys Ranges State Park
When you're there
Download the Paddys Ranges State Park park note for detailed maps and more information about the park.
Recreational prospecting is only permitted in designated areas. Prospectors must hold a current Miner's Right. Please do not drive off-road and fill any holes created by prospecting. Download the prospecting map.
Need to know
Paddys Ranges 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.
Assistance dogs are welcome in Parks Victoria parks and reserves. Entry requirements apply for parks and reserves where dogs are normally prohibited, such as national parks.
Safety
Many parks and forests are located in high fire risk areas. On days of forecast Catastrophic Fire Danger this park will be closed for public safety. If you are already in the park you should leave the night before or early in the morning for your own safety.
Closure signs will be erected and rangers will patrol where possible, however you may not receive a personal warning that the park is closed so check the latest conditions on this page.
Please keep to the tracks, as dangerous mine shafts occur throughout the park. The park is also home to snakes, please be mindful, particularly during summer when they are most active.
Please drive slowly in the park, kangaroos and wallabies often cross the roads.
For up to date information on fires in Victoria or general fire safety advice call the VicEmergency Hotline on 1800 226 226 or got to www.emergency.vic.gov.au.
Restrictions
Please take all rubbish with you when you leave the park.
Please not dogs are not allowed in the park. Horse riding is permitted on formed open roads, but horses must not be taken on walking tracks. Horses must not remain in the park overnight. Firearms are also not allowed in the park.
Paddys offers a basic campground that includes multiple picnic tables, and a toilet block. Camping is free. Camping is only allowed in the designated campground. Please note that no drinking water is provided.