Families and friends will love the historic Vaughan Springs Day Visitor Area, a popular spot on the banks of the Loddon River, and a great place to cool off and enjoy a swim in summer. Throw in a fishing line, try the water from one of the two mineral springs via the pump, and explore the nearby Chinese cemetery. The giant slide will be a big hit with kids of all ages.

The large open grassy area is perfect for games and large group or family gatherings. Parking, picnic tables, a free electric barbecue, a shelter and toilets are provided. Camping is prohibited in the Day Visitor Area but is permitted (free, no bookings required) in the Upper Terrace Campground on the hill above.

Bushwalking and bike riding are also popular, with the springs located on the Goldfields Track (stop DD29). Central Springs is a pleasant return walk, rich with birdlife, along the Goldfields Track to the southeast, and Sailors Gully and its former mines a more challenging walk southwest up and over the steep bank of the Loddon River. Deciduous trees planted along the entrance road give it a distinctly European feel and put on a magnificent display of autumn colour.

Visitor Tips: No bins are provided, so please take your rubbish home for recycling or disposal. Do not park, rest or camp under or near large trees. Trees and branches may fall at any time and swing away from the tree. Fires and firewood collection are prohibited. Dogs, firearms and prospecting are also prohibited. A permit is required to use a drone and for all commercial photography and filming.

Take care in and around the river. The rocks may be slippery, and the water may be shallow with submerged objects. Jumping in is not recommended and rope swings are prohibited. Serious injuries can occur. Always actively supervise children near water.

Vaughan Springs is in the North Central fire district. On Catastrophic Fire Danger Rating days the Park will be closed for public safety. Do not enter the Park. If you are already in the Park, leave the night before or as early as possible in the morning. Bushfire safety is a personal responsibility. Check the Fire Danger Rating and for days of Total Fire Ban at www.emergency.vic.gov.au, on the VicEmergency smartphone app or call the VicEmergency Hotline on 1800 226 226.