Two hikers walk through coastal shrubbery along a hiking trail with the Twelve Apostles appearing in the background with ocean mist making it's way up steep ocean cliffs.

Seasonal ideas

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Get into nature all year round with a variety of outdoor activities, scenic attractions and camping options. Bushwalking and hiking are popular in the cooler months of the year, whilst Victoria's bays, lakes and rivers provide the perfect place to cool down from the summer heat.

Caring for our natural environment is an important part of your park visit. During spring, many of the 3,000 native animal species are welcoming new arrivals which need their space from people. Help us conserve and protect nature and all its inhabitants by following all park signs and directions from our rangers.

For more inspiration or exciting things to see and do in Victoria’s parks and reserves, subscribe to our monthly Outdoor Inspiration e-newsletter.

Experience nature in autumn

Enjoy Victoria's dramatic landscapes and breathtaking scenery in autumn to see parks in a whole new light - without the crowds and the warmer weather.

The autumn months provide the perfect temperatures for greater exploring of remote places and hidden treasures.

Explore nature this autumn
A family of three walk under autumn leaves at Buchan Caves Reserve.

Enjoy snow play in winter

Hit the Alpine region for cross country skiing, tobogganing and snow shoeing during winter or for a less frosty nature escape, visit historic sites, learn about Aboriginal culture or simply take a road trip over a long weekend spending two to three nights in regional Victoria.

Explore nature this winter
A family plays in the snow at Mt St-Gwinear in the Baw Baw National Park.

Celebrate spring in nature

It's all about the birds and the bees.

Spring brings new life across Victoria's natural landscape.

As the days start to get warmer and Melbourne is bursting with festivity, spring is the social season to get into nature.

Relax in the sun with a BBQ or picnic, or get active with a walk, run or cycle.

Explore nature this spring
Two women in activewear follow a path through tall mountain ash trees.

Keep cool and play safe in summer

Bask in the warm summer sun and enjoy the health benefits of nature.

Keep cool in watering holes, alpine climates and secluded woodlands and rainforests.

Remember to always put safety first and obey all park signage and ranger instructions.

Pack your summer smarts

Inspiration to get into nature

Landscape photograph of Alpine National Park

12 top Victoria national parks to visit in 2025

To inspire your 2025 travel plans, we’ve handpicked the must-see national parks for each month – from mountain peaks to pink lakes, to tall forests and coastal retreats.
Hiking friends reaching Langs Lookout Mount Alexander Regional Park

Best day trips from Melbourne

Escape the city and take a day trip into nature. Walk through ancient rainforests, visit wild ocean beaches, discover relics of the gold rush era, or see wildlife – all less than two hours from Melbourne.
Friends on walkway at The Dandenong Ranges Botanic Garden - Chelsea Australian Garden

Dandenong Ranges garden guide

You’ve probably heard of the Dandenong Ranges Botanic Garden, but did you know there are six other unique gardens and parks to explore nearby?
Two friends walking along the Rainforest Gallery trail in the Yarra Ranges National Parkl

5 best beginner hikes in Yarra Ranges National Park

Immerse yourself in lush temperate rainforests with these five top beginner-friendly hikes and nature walks close to Melbourne.
Two people standing on viewing platform looking at waterfall.

Best waterfalls along the Great Ocean Road

Looking for awe-inspiring waterfalls in Victoria? Explore these four must-visit waterfalls just off the Great Ocean Road over two days.
Four friends walk across Kanes Bridge over the Yarra River near Studley Park Boathouse

5 walks near Melbourne accessible via public transport

Try one of these top day walks to escape the city for a few hours without needing a car.
Two people standing around campfire at Days Picnic Area in Macedon Regional Park.

Nature experiences near Daylesford and the Macedon Ranges

Soak in the breathtaking landscapes of Dja Dja Wurrung and Wurundjeri Country, just an hour northwest of Melbourne.
Couple enjoying a sunset picnic at Seaford Pier

Free things to do in nature near Melbourne

Great free activities close to Melbourne that will have you enjoying nature without breaking the bank.

6 top family-friendly campsites

Here's your guide to some of the best family-friendly camping destinations up to four hours from Melbourne.
A young woman leading a man on a walk through Budj Bim National Park

Budj Bim National Park - 3 day itinerary

Your guide to experiencing this unique national park over three days.

Explore Victoria's rich and diverse natural landscape

Be inspired by Victoria's diverse natural landscapes and find yourself immersed in nature. Visit caves, hidden lakes, vast valley and cascading waterfalls. Sleep under the stars or get fit and active outdoors with a range of nature-based activities.
Portsea Pier

Bays lakes and rivers

Explore Victoria's parks from the water with a variety of inland river systems, ports made up of wide bays and stunning tranquil lakes.
A family walk together along the water's edge at Shipwreck Creek beach.

Beaches and coasts

Venture out along Victoria’s dramatic coastline and explore one of the most biodiverse and unique marine ecosystems in the world.
A young women leads a man on a walk along a river bank.

Rugged bushland

Experience unique Australian nature off the beaten track in one of the many native bushland and desert parks dotted across Victoria.
A couple in their thirties take in the view along Dead Timber Track.

Mountain peaks

Climb to the breathtaking vistas atop some of Australia’s most stunning mountain peaks, alpine landscapes, escarpments and grassy high plains.
A man in a blue shirt walks up steps next to a boardwalk while looking at the flora.

Tall forests

See ancient mossy trees and stand under magnificent waterfalls. Walk under grand canopies of Mountain Ash or take a scenic drive through lush green tall forests surrounded by giant ferns.
Two women in activewear walk their dogs while two runners approach them.

Urban parks

Walk, jog, run or cycle in Melbourne’s picturesque inner city urban parks or escape the hustle and bustle with a short drive to idyllic gardens and picnic grounds.
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