Valley Picnic Ground (Dandenong Ranges National Park, RJ Hamer Arboretum)

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

Explore

Valley Picnic Ground (Dandenong Ranges National Park, RJ Hamer Arboretum)

Hidden away from the busy Mount Dandenong Tourist Road, Valley Picnic Ground is the perfect spot for a peaceful picnic. Subject to opening times, explore the plethora of walks that lead off into the lush fern-laden forests of the Dandenong Ranges National Park from here.

How to get there

Valley Picnic Ground (Dandenong Ranges National Park, RJ Hamer Arboretum)

Need to know

Valley Picnic Ground (Dandenong Ranges National Park, RJ Hamer Arboretum)

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 camping
No dogs allowed
No fires permitted
No firearms allowed

Warnings

Other warnings
Limbs 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.

Olinda/ Silvan Area- Georges Track pedestrian access only

Due to unstable ground from a damaged underground culvert, temporary fences have been installed at Georges Track and Herman Track intersection prohibiting vehicle access.

This portion of the track is pedestrian use and horse riding only. Parks Victoria and DEECA are working to fix this issue to reinstate full access.

Margaret Lester Forest Walk Condition Update

The Margaret Lester Walk at Grants Picnic Ground has historically provided visitors with an accessible forest experience through the Dandenong Ranges National Park.

Due to the age and condition of the trail surface and associated infrastructure, the walk no longer meets the expected standard of an all abilities trail. Visitors may encounter uneven surfaces, drainage issues and sections of trail that may be difficult for some users to safely navigate.

Planning work has been undertaken for a future upgrade of the trail, however delivery timeframes are still being confirmed.

Until improvement works are completed, visitors are encouraged to assess whether the current trail conditions are suitable for their individual needs and abilities.

Parks Victoria acknowledges the importance of accessible visitor experiences and appreciates the community’s patience while future options for the Margaret Lester Walk are progressed.

Temporary Closure of Grants Picnic Ground Cafe

Grants Picnic Ground Café is temporarily closed while Parks Victoria works through an Expression of Interest process to secure a long-term and appropriate lease for the site. In the meantime, a mobile coffee van will be operating on-site from Tuesday to Saturday for the duration of the process.