Aura Vale Lake (Cardinia Reservoir Parks)

This area has additional visitor advice This area has reported issues This area is closed

Explore

Aura Vale Lake (Cardinia Reservoir Parks)

Aura Vale Lake is a popular location for recreational fishing, canoeing, sailing, rowing and picnicking. Ramped paths provide access to picnic areas and toilets. Visitors are welcome to bring their own gas fired BBQ.

Just north of Cardinia Reservoir, Aura Vale Lake plays a very important role in Melbourne's water supply. It forms part of a drainage system designed to channel run-off water from neighbouring properties and roads and stops it entering the main reservoir.

Although recreational fishing is permitted in Aura Vale Lake, consumption of fish is not advised. A Recreational Fishing Licence is required for all forms of fishing in Victoria's waterways.

Fishing is only permitted from the banks.

Henley Picnic area is a fantastic spot to spend the afternoon relaxing by the lake, providing ramped paths to picnic area and accessible toilets.

A boat ramp provides access for small non-powered boats.

Swimming is not permitted in Aura Vale Lake.

Park gates are open between dawn and dusk all year round for vehicle access.

How to get there

Aura Vale Lake (Cardinia Reservoir Parks)

Aura Vale Lake (Cardinia Reservoir Parks)

Need to know

Aura Vale Lake (Cardinia Reservoir Parks)

Safety in nature

You can benefit both mind and body when you get outdoors to explore and experience Victoria's natural places. Before you go, take a look at our safety tips and check our changed conditions and closures information for a great visit.

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. Parks Victoria provides a range of a equipment, including all-terrain and beach wheelchairs, facilities, accommodation and accessibility information and programs to help you plan and enjoy your visit to Victoria's parks.

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.

Warnings & Restrictions

Dogs

Dogs are allowed but must be on a leash

Restrictions

  • No drones without a permit
  • No camping
  • No fires permitted
  • No motorised vehicles, including electric bikes or scooters allowed on management vehicle only paths, tracks or roads
  • No firearms allowed

Warnings

  • Terrain hazards
    • Slippery surface
    • Uneven ground
  • Water hazards
    • Deep water
    • Submerged obstacles
    • Shallow water
  • Other warnings
    • Trees may fall take care

Be Prepared

Stay safe and get the most out of your park visit by preparing for natural hazards and other outdoor risks in Victoria’s parks. You are responsible for your own safety and the safety of those in your care. Find out more.

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.

Cardinia Reservoir Park CLOSED - Monday 2nd – Friday 6th of March between 19:30 – 04:00

Melbourne Water will be conducting deer culling operations in the Cardinia Reservoir from Monday 2nd – Friday 6th of March (4 nights) between the hours of 19:30 – 04:00 subject to appropriate conditions.
No entry to the catchment is permitted unless it is an emergency. See map of operational area attached.
 
Operations will be carried out by Melbourne Water contractors and will involve the use of firearms and the support of a drone. Melbourne Water staff will be inspecting the perimeter gates, fences, and roads prior to the commencement of operations. The catchment boundary will be patrolled by security teams. Contractors will be on site to recover deer and transport them off site each day. 

Attachments: Operational Area (85KB)

Closure of Cardinia Reservoir Park

Cardinia Reservoir Park will be closed from April the 7th 2026 until approximately June the 16th 2026 to enable Melbourne Water to safely undertake extensive works within the Cardinia Reservoir Park area. Works involve the felling and removal of a number of large pine trees which have been infested with Pine Scale. The Park must be closed in order for these works to be undertaken safely. We apologise for any inconvenience.

Closure of walking trail bridge - western end of Crystal Brook picnic area carpark - un-named trail

A small walking track bridge has been damaged by a fallen tree at the Western end of the Crystal Brook carpark. The bridge has been closed. Ranger staff are currently  clearing the tree and assessing the damage to the bridge. Visitors are advised not the cross the bridge until repair works are completed.

X
By using our site you accept that we use and share cookies and similar technologies with certain approved third parties. These tools enable us to improve your website experience and to provide content and ads tailored to your interests. By continuing to use our site you consent to this. Please see our Privacy Policy for more information.
Confirm