Turpins Falls Scenic Reserve (Turpins Falls Scenic Reserve)

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Turpins Falls Scenic Reserve (Turpins Falls Scenic Reserve)

Turpins Falls is a beautiful natural water hole at the base of a waterfall tumbling 18 metres over impressive basalt cliffs formed by an ancient lava flow. Located 15 minutes north of Kyneton, it is a popular spot for locals to cool off in the Campaspe River on a warm day.

The base of the falls has beautiful boulders, tree roots and logs for visitors to relax among and enjoy an informal picnic. It is accessed via a short but steep track from the carpark above the falls, with excellent views from the top and the lookout half way down. The falls flow year-round but are at their most impressive after winter and spring rains. In summer they may dry to a trickle.

Visitor Tips: A short unsealed road suitable for 2WD vehicles leads off Shillidays Rd to the car park above the falls. Drive with care and keep the entrance road clear for other visitors and emergency service, by parking on the verges at the side of the road.

A good view of the falls can be appreciated near the car park for those not wanting to make the steep descent. The track down to the rocky area at base of the falls is clearly marked but quite steep and uneven in places, with many steps. 300m one way, Grade 3, 40 minutes return. Please supervise children. In wet weather, the tracks and rocks at the base can be slippery. Take care and watch your footing. Enclosed shoes with a good grip are recommended.

Access to the top of the falls is prohibited and has been closed off for your safety. Lives have been lost and people have been seriously injured as a result of jumping or diving off the cliffs here. The base of the falls is a lovely spot to swim, with easy walking access into the water, but visitors should take care of submerged objects, deep holes, cold water, low visibility and strong currents after heavy rain.

Always supervise children in or near the water, and do not dive or jump in. There is no mobile reception at the base of the falls. In the event of an emergency, send someone up to the car park or back towards Metcalfe or Kyneton and call 000 (or 112 on a mobile).

There are no toilets or other facilities, and no bins. Please take your rubbish home for recycling or disposal. Observe local signage and do not swim if there is a blue-green algae warning.

Turpins Falls is in the North Central fire ban district. Bushfire safety is a personal responsibility. For up to date information on bushfires in Victoria call the VicEmergency Hotline on 1800 226 226 or go to www.emergency.vic.gov.au.

How to get there

Turpins Falls Scenic Reserve (Turpins Falls Scenic Reserve)

Need to know

Turpins Falls Scenic Reserve (Turpins Falls Scenic Reserve)

Warnings & Restrictions

Dogs

Dogs are not allowed

Restrictions

  • No firearms allowed
  • No fires permitted
  • No camping
  • No dogs allowed

Warnings

  • Terrain hazards
    • Slippery surface
    • Slippery rocks
    • Edge
    • Land slippage
  • Water hazards
    • Submerged obstacles
    • Deep water
    • Drop off
    • Strong currents
  • Other warnings
    • Unpatrolled area
    • 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.

Maintenance works to reopen Turpins Falls Scenic Reserve Lookout.

Turpins Falls Scenic Reserve was closed for safety reasons. A High-Risk Asset inspection was undertaken, which confirmed the track and fencing were in poor condition due to age, and rust, and did not meet current standards. 

Current Stage 1 works include installation of new walkway and steps, installation of new Australian Standard compliant fencing, track repairs, and carpark upgrades. The essential works to upgrade Turpins Falls will reopen the scenic outlook to the community. 

Works are expected to be completed by January 2026. 

Investigations are currently underway for Stage 2 works, which will open the site from the lookout down to the base of the waterfall.

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