Embark on an adventure through the natural wonders of Melbourne and Victoria! With our guide to the top 20 National Parks, you’re set to explore breathtaking landscapes, from rugged coastlines to lush forests. Each park offers a unique journey, with opportunities for hiking, wildlife spotting, and immersing yourself in nature. Pack your bags and get ready to discover the great outdoors like never before!
At a Glance
Our list of best National Parks around Melbourne and Victoria goes like this:
- For the best hiking trails and Aboriginal cultural landscape: Grampians National Park (Gariwerd)
- For pristine beaches and remote coastal bushland trails: Wilsons Promontory National Park
- For breathtaking waterfalls and the iconic Great Ocean Walk: Great Otway National Park
- For tranquil forest walks and the famous 1000 Steps: Dandenong Ranges National Park
1. Mount Buffalo National Park
Mount Buffalo National Park is a place of sheer majesty and timeless beauty, where the grandeur of the Australian Alps is on full display. Perched high in the mountains, this park is a sanctuary of tranquil lakes, cascading waterfalls, and sweeping alpine vistas that stretch as far as the eye can see. The park’s iconic rock formations, such as the Cathedral and the Horn, offer exhilarating climbs and breathtaking views that reward the adventurous at heart.
Winter transforms Mount Buffalo into a snowy wonderland, ideal for snowshoeing and cross-country skiing, while summer invites hikers to explore its diverse landscapes, from wildflower-strewn meadows to cool mountain streams. The park is also a haven for wildlife, with echidnas, wombats, and lyrebirds making their home among the snow gums and alpine heathlands.
Mount Buffalo National Park is a testament to the natural splendor of Victoria’s high country. Whether you’re seeking the thrill of rock climbing, the serenity of a picnic by Lake Catani, or simply the peace that comes with being in nature, Mount Buffalo offers an escape into a world where the beauty of the wilderness reigns supreme.
- Best Time to Visit: Summer (December to February) for hiking and rock climbing, winter (June to August) for snow sports.
- Known For: Spectacular alpine scenery, rock formations, and diverse outdoor activities.
- Distance and Travel Time from CBD: Approximately 320km, around 3.5 hours drive from Melbourne CBD.
- Google Map Link: https://maps.app.goo.gl/CJQX59odnHiqGkMi7
2. Brisbane Ranges National Park
Brisbane Ranges National Park is a hidden gem located west of Melbourne, offering a diverse landscape of rugged hills, dense bushland, and wildflowers that burst into color each spring. This park is a paradise for bushwalkers, with trails like the Anakie Gorge Walk and the Ted Errey Nature Circuit providing opportunities to explore the park’s unique geological formations and rich biodiversity. The park’s ancient Aboriginal rock art site adds a layer of cultural significance, connecting visitors with the land’s traditional custodians.
Wildlife enthusiasts will be delighted by the park’s abundant fauna, including the elusive koala, which can often be spotted lounging in the eucalyptus trees. The park’s varied ecosystems support a wide range of bird species, making it a fantastic spot for birdwatching. Whether you’re navigating the challenging Steiglitz Historic Park trails or enjoying a peaceful picnic amidst the natural beauty, Brisbane Ranges offers an authentic bush experience.
The Brisbane Ranges are a testament to the natural beauty and ecological diversity of Victoria. With its close proximity to Melbourne, the park provides an accessible escape for those looking to immerse themselves in nature without straying too far from the city. It’s a place where adventure awaits around every bend, inviting you to discover the untamed heart of Victoria.
- Best Time to Visit: Year-round, with spring being particularly spectacular for wildflowers.
- Known For: Bushwalking, diverse flora and fauna, Aboriginal rock art, and wildflowers.
- Distance and Travel Time from CBD: Information not available in the search results.
- Google Map Link: https://maps.app.goo.gl/LG2P9ZbjhZcu19Pu5
3. Mornington Peninsula National Park
Mornington Peninsula National Park is where the rugged beauty of Victoria’s coastline comes to life. Stretching from the serene bays of Port Phillip to the wild waves of Bass Strait, this park offers a dramatic contrast of landscapes. Here, you can wander along clifftop trails with breathtaking ocean views, relax on secluded beaches, or explore historic lighthouses that stand as guardians of the coast.
The park is a haven for surfers, with iconic spots like Gunnamatta and Sorrento offering some of the best waves in the state. For those who prefer calmer waters, the sheltered beaches of Port Phillip provide the perfect setting for a family day out. The diverse habitats of the park also support a rich array of wildlife, from the playful dolphins that frolic in the bay to the kangaroos that graze in the coastal scrub.
Mornington Peninsula National Park is a place of natural splendor and recreational delight. Whether you’re hiking the Coastal Walk, soaking in the thermal pools of the nearby hot springs, or simply enjoying a picnic with a view, the park offers a slice of paradise just a short drive from Melbourne. It’s a reminder of the stunning beauty that lies at the city’s doorstep, waiting to be explored.
- Best Time to Visit: Summer (December to February) for beaches and winter (June to August) for hot springs.
- Known For: Coastal scenery, surfing beaches, historic lighthouses, and diverse wildlife.
- Distance and Travel Time from CBD: Approximately 95km, about 1.5 hours drive from Melbourne CBD.
- Google Map Link: https://maps.app.goo.gl/h1fS23Cqx5m8gVNo8
4. Alpine National Park
Alpine National Park is Victoria’s alpine wonderland, sprawling across the high country with its snow-capped peaks, alpine meadows, and crystal-clear rivers. As the largest national park in the state, it offers an unparalleled adventure for outdoor enthusiasts. In winter, the park transforms into a snowy playground, with skiing and snowboarding at Mount Hotham and Falls Creek. Summer brings the opportunity for hiking along the iconic Australian Alps Walking Track, fishing in pristine mountain streams, and camping under the stars.
The park’s diverse landscapes are home to unique alpine flora and fauna, including the brightly colored alpine wildflowers that bloom in summer. The challenging terrain provides a habitat for rare species like the mountain pygmy-possum and the alpine dingo. For those seeking solitude and spectacular scenery, the remote backcountry areas of the park offer an escape into the wilderness.
Alpine National Park is a place of breathtaking beauty and rugged grandeur, where the spirit of adventure is alive and well. Whether you’re conquering the summits, exploring the valleys, or simply reveling in the natural beauty, the park offers an unforgettable experience in Victoria’s high country. It’s a testament to the awe-inspiring power of nature and a must-visit destination for anyone seeking to explore the great outdoors.
- Best Time to Visit: Summer (December to February) for hiking and winter (June to August) for snow sports.
- Known For: Snow-capped mountains, alpine meadows, skiing, and hiking.
- Distance and Travel Time from CBD: Varies widely due to the park’s large size; the closest point is about 250km, approximately 3 hours drive from Melbourne CBD.
- Google Map Link: https://maps.app.goo.gl/6aMNjN5UmHa8f67Z9
5. Point Addis Marine National Park
Point Addis Marine National Park is a marine sanctuary where the mysteries of the deep are just a stone’s throw from the rugged cliffs and sandy beaches of Victoria’s Surf Coast. This underwater paradise is a diver’s dream, with its rich marine biodiversity, including colorful sponge gardens, kelp forests, and an array of sea creatures that call these waters home. The park’s marine life is not only a draw for divers but also for snorkelers and those interested in marine conservation.
Above water, the park offers stunning coastal walks that provide breathtaking views of the Southern Ocean and the chance to spot whales during their migration season. The cultural significance of the area is palpable, with Indigenous sites that offer a glimpse into the rich history of the Wadawurrung people.
Point Addis Marine National Park is a place where the beauty of the land meets the mystery of the sea. It’s a destination that offers both adventure and tranquility, inviting visitors to explore the depths of its waters and the heights of its cliffs, all while respecting the delicate balance of this marine ecosystem.
- Best Time to Visit: Year-round, with summer (December to February) being ideal for snorkeling and diving.
- Known For: Marine biodiversity, snorkeling, and diving, coastal walks.
- Distance and Travel Time from CBD: Approximately 100km, about 1.5 hours drive from Melbourne CBD.
- Google Map Link: https://maps.app.goo.gl/YR9mmDsEUWJCVf4M8
6. Little Desert National Park
Little Desert National Park is a landscape of contrasts and surprises, where the term “desert” belies the rich biodiversity and vibrant life found within. Spanning across western Victoria, this park is a mosaic of sandy plains, dense scrub, and heathlands that burst into a kaleidoscope of colors with wildflowers in spring. It’s a place where the silence is broken only by the call of birds and the rustle of wildlife, offering a serene escape into nature.
For the adventurous spirit, Little Desert presents a network of walking trails that range from leisurely walks to challenging hikes, each unveiling the park’s unique beauty. The park is a haven for birdwatchers, with over 220 bird species calling it home, including the elusive Mallee fowl. Nightfall transforms the park into a different world, where nocturnal creatures like the Western Pygmy-possum and owls emerge, and the stars light up the vast outback sky.
Little Desert National Park is a testament to the unexpected beauty and resilience of nature. It’s a place that challenges perceptions, inviting visitors to explore its hidden treasures and discover a wilderness teeming with life. Whether you’re trekking through its sandy tracks or camping under a canopy of stars, Little Desert offers an adventure that reconnects you with the wild heart of Victoria.
- Best Time to Visit: Spring (September to November) for wildflowers and wildlife viewing.
- Known For: Diverse ecosystems, abundant birdlife, and spring wildflowers.
- Distance and Travel Time from CBD: Approximately 375km, around 4 hours drive from Melbourne CBD.
- Google Map Link: https://maps.app.goo.gl/jWbqHecDx85CUAze9
7. Murray-Sunset National Park
Murray-Sunset National Park, located in Victoria’s far northwest corner, is an expansive wilderness area known for its surreal landscapes and stunning sunsets. This park is home to the famous Pink Lakes, which owe their hue to the algae thriving in the saline waters. The vast, open spaces and the tranquility of the park make it an ideal spot for stargazing, photography, and soul-searching.
The park’s network of tracks invites exploration by foot, bike, or 4WD, leading adventurers through diverse habitats from Mallee scrub to ancient river red gum forests. The area is rich in Aboriginal heritage, offering a deeper understanding of the land’s cultural significance. Wildlife is abundant, with the chance to see kangaroos, emus, and a variety of bird species in their natural environment.
Murray-Sunset National Park is a place of natural wonder and serenity, offering a unique experience of Australia’s outback. It’s a destination where the landscape tells a story of time, beauty, and the enduring spirit of the natural world.
- Best Time to Visit: Autumn (March to May) for cooler temperatures and vibrant sunsets.
- Known For: Pink Lakes, vast wilderness, and spectacular sunsets.
- Distance and Travel Time from CBD: Approximately 550km, around 6 hours drive from Melbourne CBD.
- Google Map Link: https://maps.app.goo.gl/nsV6scnYuPTnF1My5
8. Terrick Terrick National Park
Terrick Terrick National Park, nestled in the northern plains of Victoria, is a conservation oasis preserving one of the last remnants of native grassland and Box-Ironbark forests in the region. This park is a sanctuary for endangered flora and fauna, offering a glimpse into the landscape as it once was. The striking granite outcrops, including Mount Terrick Terrick, provide panoramic views of the surrounding plains and are a highlight for visitors.
The park’s grasslands bloom with wildflowers in spring, creating a vibrant tapestry of color that attracts a variety of birdlife, including the rare Plains-wanderer. The peaceful environment makes it an ideal spot for picnicking, birdwatching, and enjoying the tranquility of nature.
Terrick Terrick National Park is a testament to the beauty and importance of preserving natural habitats. It’s a place where visitors can appreciate the delicate balance of ecosystems and the value of conservation efforts in protecting Victoria’s natural heritage.
- Best Time to Visit: Spring (September to November) for wildflowers and birdwatching.
- Known For: Native grasslands, Box-Ironbark forests, and granite outcrops.
- Distance and Travel Time from CBD: Information not available in the search results.
- Google Map Link: https://maps.app.goo.gl/fMfSJ9g2ayn4DzXh7
9. French Island National Park
French Island National Park, located in the heart of Western Port Bay, is an unspoiled haven of natural beauty and tranquility. Accessible only by ferry, this island offers a unique escape from the mainland, with over 60% of its area declared a National Park. The park is a haven for wildlife, particularly known for its thriving koala population and diverse birdlife, making it a paradise for nature enthusiasts.
The island’s landscape is a mix of mangroves, saltmarshes, and eucalypt woodlands, crisscrossed by walking and cycling tracks that invite exploration. The absence of cars enhances the sense of isolation and connection with nature, allowing visitors to truly unwind and immerse themselves in the peaceful surroundings.
French Island National Park is a place where time slows down, and the natural world takes center stage. It’s an ideal destination for those seeking adventure, solitude, or simply a chance to reconnect with nature in one of Victoria’s most unique and secluded settings.
- Best Time to Visit: Year-round, with each season offering different experiences.
- Known For: Koala population, birdwatching, and unspoiled natural environment.
- Distance and Travel Time from CBD: Accessible by ferry from Stony Point on the Mornington Peninsula; total travel time varies.
- Google Map Link: https://maps.app.goo.gl/GxgpHMbEX6Hriyeq6
10. Grampians National Park (Gariwerd)
The Grampians National Park, affectionately known as Gariwerd by the Traditional Owners, is a majestic canvas where Mother Nature has gone wild with her palette. Towering sandstone mountains rise dramatically from the earth, while waterfalls cascade into serene pools below. It’s a place where adventure whispers on the wind, calling you to explore its rugged landscapes and ancient rock art that tells the stories of the land’s original custodians.
As you trek through the park, you’ll be greeted by wildflowers that splash color across the terrain and wildlife that roams free. The Grampians is not just a park; it’s a spiritual experience, a place where you can climb to the peaks for awe-inspiring views or find tranquility in the gentle rustle of eucalyptus leaves. Whether you’re a hardcore hiker or a leisurely walker, the Grampians has a trail that will speak to your soul.
And when the day is done, the park transforms into an amphitheater of stars. Camping under the vast Australian sky, you’ll find yourself pondering life’s big questions or simply being in the moment, surrounded by the park’s majestic beauty. It’s an escape that will leave you feeling rejuvenated and connected to the earth in a way that only the Grampians can offer.
- Best Time to Visit: Autumn (March to May) and Spring (September to November) for mild weather and wildflowers.
- Known For: Stunning sandstone mountain ranges, wildflowers, and Indigenous rock art sites.
- Distance and Travel Time from CBD: Approximately 258km (160mi), around 3 hours drive from Melbourne CBD.
- Google Map Link: https://maps.app.goo.gl/K4uwmhPGGrF8bGct5
11. Wilsons Promontory National Park
Wilsons Promontory National Park, or “The Prom” as it’s fondly called, is a treasure trove of natural wonders at the southernmost tip of mainland Australia. Here, the ocean meets the land in a spectacular display of granite mountains, lush rainforests, and some of the most pristine beaches you’ll ever set foot on. It’s a place where you can feel the sand between your toes, watch emus strut across the landscape, and maybe even spot a whale breaching off the coast.
The Prom is an outdoor enthusiast’s paradise, offering a smorgasbord of activities from snorkeling in crystal-clear waters to embarking on overnight hikes that promise breathtaking views. It’s a place where each turn on the trail is a new discovery, and the only traffic jams are caused by curious kangaroos crossing your path.
As the sun sets, the park becomes a symphony of nocturnal sounds, from the call of the Powerful Owl to the rustling of wombats foraging in the underbrush. Camping here is an experience that connects you with nature and leaves you with stories that you’ll be itching to share.
- Best Time to Visit: Spring (September to November) and Autumn (March to May) for warm weather and fewer crowds.
- Known For: Pristine beaches, abundant wildlife, and the southernmost point of mainland Australia.
- Distance and Travel Time from CBD: About 225km, roughly 3 hours drive from Melbourne CBD.
- Google Map Link: https://maps.app.goo.gl/drm6wDB4fNuM7SHN9
12. Great Otway National Park
Nestled along the iconic Great Ocean Road, Great Otway National Park is a verdant paradise where the forest meets the sea. This park is a fairy tale come to life, with ancient rainforests, misty waterfalls, and a coastline that will take your breath away. It’s a place where you can wander through fern gullies, climb to the tops of lighthouses, and even witness the enchanting dance of glow worms at night.
The Otways is a playground for the senses, where the scent of eucalyptus mingles with the salty sea breeze, and the sound of crashing waves accompanies your every step. Whether you’re zip-lining through the treetops or soaking in the serenity of a secluded beach, the park offers a retreat from the hustle and bustle of daily life.
And for those who dare to venture off the beaten path, the Otways rewards you with hidden gems like secret waterfalls and secluded coves that feel like they’re yours alone. It’s a place where memories are made, and the call of the wild is impossible to resist.
- Best Time to Visit: Winter (June to August) for waterfalls and whale watching, and late summer (March-April) for warm weather.
- Known For: Lush rainforests, waterfalls, and the iconic Great Ocean Road.
- Distance and Travel Time from CBD: Approximately 210km, around 2 hours and 45 minutes drive from Melbourne CBD.
- Google Map Link: https://maps.app.goo.gl/dKK4m4Tinfzwotgu9
13. Dandenong Ranges National Park
Just a stone’s throw from Melbourne, the Dandenong Ranges National Park is a cool, temperate rainforest that offers a refreshing escape from the city’s buzz. This is where towering Mountain Ash trees reach for the sky, and a colorful array of birdlife fills the air with song. The Dandenongs are a place to reconnect with nature, whether you’re meandering through the famous Rhododendron Gardens or challenging yourself on the historic 1000 Steps Walk.
The park is a haven for those seeking peace and for those craving adventure. You can ride the Puffing Billy steam train through the heart of the forest or indulge in a Devonshire tea with a side of stunning scenery. It’s a place where every path leads to a new discovery, from hidden sculptures to quaint hilltop villages that seem to belong in a storybook.
As the mist rolls in, the Dandenongs take on an ethereal quality, making you feel as though you’ve stepped into another world. It’s a magical place where time slows down, and the simple pleasures of life are magnified amidst the beauty of the Australian bush.
- Best Time to Visit: End of spring or early summer (November to January) for drier weather and local events.
- Known For: Cool climate forests and the popular 1000 Steps Walk.
- Distance and Travel Time from CBD: About 40km, around 1 hour drive from Melbourne CBD.
- Google Map Link: https://maps.app.goo.gl/53ZBiYNpvNVSRbDX7
14. Yarra Ranges National Park
The Yarra Ranges National Park is a sanctuary of towering forests and fern-clad gullies, just a short drive from Melbourne’s bustling streets. Here, the mighty Mountain Ash trees stand as silent sentinels, their lofty canopies sheltering a world brimming with wildlife and echoing with the calls of lyrebirds. It’s a place where the air is crisp, the water pure, and the vistas simply breathtaking, especially from the summit of Mount Donna Buang.
For those with a thirst for adventure, the Yarra Ranges offer a plethora of trails that cater to all levels of fitness, from gentle walks to the challenging ascent of the mountains. In winter, the park transforms into a wonderland of snow, inviting visitors to indulge in the simple joy of snowball fights and tobogganing. And for the culturally curious, the park’s rich heritage, shared by the Wurundjeri people, adds a profound depth to the natural splendor.
Whether you’re picnicking by a babbling brook, cycling through aromatic eucalypt forests, or simply soaking in the serenity, the Yarra Ranges National Park is a place where memories are made and the soul is nourished. It’s a natural retreat that promises to rejuvenate even the weariest of city dwellers.
- Best Time to Visit: End of spring or early summer (November to January) for drier weather and local events.
- Known For: Lush forests, stunning lookouts, and the world’s tallest flowering tree, the Mountain Ash.
- Distance and Travel Time from CBD: About 58km, around 1.5 hours drive from Melbourne CBD.
- Google Map Link: https://maps.app.goo.gl/U2eW3ND3XPQewtAf7
15. Port Campbell National Park
Port Campbell National Park is a coastal gem where the Southern Ocean has sculpted a dramatic masterpiece of rock formations, including the iconic Twelve Apostles. This park is a highlight reel of natural wonders, where each viewpoint offers a postcard-perfect scene more impressive than the last. From the majestic London Bridge to the serene Loch Ard Gorge, the park’s beauty is both timeless and ever-changing.
Visitors flock here to witness the penguins’ twilight parade and to catch a glimpse of whales frolicking off the coast. The park is a haven for outdoor activities, with opportunities for hiking, mountain biking, and boating. It’s a place where the ocean’s roar is the soundtrack to your adventures and the salty breeze is your constant companion.
As the sun dips below the horizon, the limestone stacks of the Twelve Apostles glow in the warm light, offering a moment of pure awe. Port Campbell National Park is not just a destination; it’s an experience that encapsulates the wild heart of Victoria’s coastline.
- Best Time to Visit: January, February, March, April, October, November, and December for good weather.
- Known For: The Twelve Apostles, limestone stacks, and rugged coastal landscapes.
- Distance and Travel Time from CBD: Approximately 190km, around 3 hours drive from Melbourne CBD.
- Google Map Link: https://maps.app.goo.gl/iKLeeWdt47xPLfE88
16. Point Nepean National Park
Point Nepean National Park is where history and nature converge at the tip of the Mornington Peninsula. This park has seen its share of history, from its days as a quarantine station to its strategic importance in Australia’s coastal defense. Today, it’s a place where you can wander through time, exploring military forts and tunnels, and learning about the lives of those who passed through the Quarantine Station.
The park’s natural beauty is equally compelling, with rugged coastal landscapes offering panoramic ocean and bay views. Whether you’re walking or cycling, every path leads to discovery and a deeper appreciation for the area’s rich heritage. It’s a place where the past whispers to you on the wind, and the present invites you to relax and enjoy the stunning scenery.
Point Nepean is more than just a park; it’s a journey through time and nature, a unique blend of history and beauty that captures the essence of Victoria’s coastal allure.
- Best Time to Visit: Year-round, with vehicle entry from 08:00-17:00 (18:00 in daylight savings).
- Known For: Historical significance, panoramic views, and rich wildlife.
- Distance and Travel Time from CBD: Information not available in the search results.
- Google Map Link: https://maps.app.goo.gl/n7BqwUUarLqNbJsp7
17. Organ Pipes National Park
A mere 30-minute drive from Melbourne’s CBD lies a geological marvel – the Organ Pipes National Park. Here, the main attraction is a set of basalt columns formed by ancient volcanic activity, resembling the pipes of a grand organ. It’s a place where you can marvel at the power of nature and the slow, meticulous artistry of geological time.
The park is a sanctuary for native flora and fauna, offering a quick escape into nature for city dwellers. Walking trails lead you through the park, allowing for intimate encounters with the unique rock formations and the chance to spot wildlife in their natural habitat. It’s a park that combines the wonders of geology with the tranquility of the bushland, all within a stone’s throw of the city.
Organ Pipes National Park is a testament to the natural history of Victoria, a place where you can touch the ancient past and find peace in the present.
- Best Time to Visit: Year-round.
- Known For: Unique basalt columns and geological formations.
- Distance and Travel Time from CBD: Just a 30-minute drive from Melbourne CBD.
- Google Map Link: https://maps.app.goo.gl/1hTrgbafVKB98t3N7
18. Croajingolong National Park
Croajingolong National Park, a UNESCO World Biosphere Reserve, is a coastal wilderness that stretches along Victoria’s far eastern border. This park is a mosaic of pristine beaches, dense rainforests, and serene estuaries, offering a haven for those seeking solitude and a connection with nature. The park’s diverse ecosystems support an abundance of wildlife, including kangaroos, koalas, and a myriad of bird species, making it a paradise for nature lovers and birdwatchers.
The park’s remote beaches, such as Point Hicks and Thurra River, offer unparalleled opportunities for beachcombing, fishing, and simply soaking in the tranquility of untouched nature. Hiking trails wind through the park, leading adventurers through landscapes that change from coastal heathland to towering eucalypt forests.
Croajingolong National Park is a place of natural diversity and serene beauty. It’s a destination that invites exploration and contemplation, where the rhythm of the waves and the whisper of the forest provide a backdrop to an unforgettable adventure in one of Victoria’s most spectacular natural settings.
- Best Time to Visit: Spring (September to November) and Autumn (March to May) for mild weather and fewer crowds.
- Known For: Pristine beaches, diverse ecosystems, and abundant wildlife.
- Distance and Travel Time from CBD: Over 500km, approximately 6 hours drive from Melbourne CBD.
- Google Map Link: https://maps.app.goo.gl/jRGDnP1QnQx2GhLv8
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the best time to visit the Grampians National Park?
The best time to visit the Grampians National Park is during Autumn (March to May) and Spring (September to November) when the weather is mild and the park is vibrant with wildflowers.
Can I see wildlife at Wilsons Promontory National Park?
Yes, Wilsons Promontory National Park is renowned for its abundant wildlife. Visitors can expect to see kangaroos, wombats, emus, and a variety of bird species.
How far is the Great Otway National Park from Melbourne, and is it suitable for a day trip?
Great Otway National Park is approximately 210km from Melbourne, making it around a 2 hours and 45 minutes drive. It is suitable for a day trip, but staying overnight is recommended to fully explore the park.
Are there any facilities available at Dandenong Ranges National Park?
Yes, Dandenong Ranges National Park offers several facilities, including picnic areas, BBQs, toilets, and walking trails. The park is also close to the towns of Olinda and Sassafras, where cafes and shops are available.
Is there an entry fee for any of these national parks?
Most national parks around Melbourne and Victoria do not require an entry fee. However, specific attractions within the parks, such as guided tours or camping sites, may charge a fee. It’s always best to check the official park website for the most up-to-date information.
