Budj Bim Picnic Area (Budj Bim National Park)

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

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Budj Bim Picnic Area (Budj Bim National Park)

Budj Bim Picnic Area is nestled among tall Manna Gum and Blackwood trees, near Lake Surprise. Enjoy a picnic or barbecue before exploring the ancient volcanic landscape of Budj Bim National Park.

How to get there

Budj Bim Picnic Area (Budj Bim National Park)

Need to know

Budj Bim Picnic Area (Budj Bim National Park)

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 not allowed

Restrictions

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

Warnings

Other warnings
Trees may fall take care

Limbs may fall take care
Terrain hazards
Slippery surface

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.

Budj Bim Picnic Area Barbecues Out of Order

Three barbecues and one burner located at the Budj Bim campground are currently out of order. Work is currently underway to rectify the problem.

One barbecue and one burner each remain operational and available for use.

Lake Surprise Lookout Temporary Closure

Lake Surprise Lookout in Budj Bim National Park is temporarily closed due to unsafe conditions. Work is underway to assess requirements to make the lookout safe for visitor use. Timeframe for reopening is unknown. Visitors are requested not to access the lookout until further notice. The Crater Rim Walk is open, including three other lookouts that offer views of Lake Surprise.

Severe Wind Event Friday 29th August 2025 - Trees across vehicle and walking tracks

A severe wind event impacted the south west of Victoria on Friday 29th August 2025, resulting in widespread tree and branch fall. Park Rangers have prioritised checking campgrounds and picnic areas for hazardous trees. Some walking tracks and vehicle tracks will take time to check and clear fallen trees and branches. Visitors are advised to be cautious of hazardous conditions resulting from tree fall when using vehicle and walking tracks in parks including Lower Glenelg National Park, Mount Richmond National Park, Cobboboonee National Park and Budj Bim National Park..