Hawkstowe Picnic Area (Plenty Gorge Parklands)

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Hawkstowe Picnic Area (Plenty Gorge Parklands)

Plenty Gorge Park is approximately 20km north of
Melbourne in South Morang.

Take a look back in time at the historic Hawkstowe picnic ground, set in a secluded area of Plenty Gorge. You'll be impressed by the brick and bluestone Le Page homestead, barn and stables.

This is a perfect spot for a picnic or BBQ that the whole family will enjoy. Electric BBQ's and picnic shelters are available. There are no solid fuel BBQ's. Toilets are located behind Le Page Homestead

Take a walk around the picturesque wetlands. Discover the abundant wildlife, including friendly kangaroos.

Le Page Historic Homestead Opening Hours:
Winter: 8:30AM to 5:00PM
Summer: 8:30AM to 7:00PM

How to get there

Hawkstowe Picnic Area (Plenty Gorge Parklands)

Hawkstowe Picnic Area (Plenty Gorge Parklands)

Need to know

Hawkstowe Picnic Area (Plenty Gorge Parklands)

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 fires permitted
  • No horses
  • No dogs allowed
  • No camping
  • No motorised vehicles, including electric bikes or scooters allowed on management vehicle only paths, tracks or roads
  • No firearms allowed
  • Restricted opening hours
  • No diving, swimming or wading
  • No drones without a permit

Warnings

  • Animals and pests
    • Snakes

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.

Restricted access to Yarrambat Park due to rabbit control measures

Areas of Yarrambat Park will be closed from 8pm to 6am from 6/2/25 to 30/4/25 due to active shooting, as part of rabbit control program. Temporary signage has been installed and will advise visitors of specific areas affected.

Blue Green Algae detected in Blue Lake - Yellow Gum Recreation Area (Plenty Gorge Park)

 
Testing has confirmed the presence of Blue Green Algae in Blue Lake, Yellow Gum Recreation Area in the southern end of the Plenty Gorge Park.
 
Contact with the water currently poses a health risk and visitors are advised not to swim, fish, touch the water until further notice.

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