The best camping near Dandenong Ranges National Park

Discover the most magical spots to pitch your tent or park your rig on your next Dandenong Ranges National Park adventure.

Forest trails, waterfalls, and historic villages lie in Melbourne’s eastern hills—reachable by public transport.

Popular ways to camp

Community favorites near Dandenong Ranges National Park

Top-rated campgrounds reviewed by the Hipcamp community.

Magic Mountain

2 sites · Lodging, RVs, Tents40 acres · Humevale, VIC

Nestled amongst the mountains just outside of the township of Whittlesea our 40-acre property sits above the clouds. This experience comes with sweeping views, a hidden waterfall, a clear campground, and plenty of wildlife. The camping area is accessible by 4WD only, otherwise, strap on a backpack and earn it! (800m walk/hike from where a non-4WD can park). The waterfall is reached by a single trail track from the campsite, and you do need to be an experienced hiker to get to the waterfall. Which is part of the appeal! We welcome self-contained campers, who bring their own toilet and take all waste with them. We have a strict Leave No Trace policy. Or choose to stay in our beautiful A-frame cabin, with plush bedding, cozy fire, and outdoor lounge. More than anything else this is a place to relax and be away from normal, live outside yourself, and rediscover what weekends are for. Dogs are welcome, so long as they don't bother the wildlife. Campfires are allowed, BYO firewood or campers can collect fallen timber from the property.

* Before taxes and fees

Dromkeen Macdeon Ranges

8 sites · RVs, Tents25 acres · Riddells Creek, VIC

Heritage listed homestead featuring children’s art and literature. Currently featuring a beautiful exhibition by award winning Australian authors/illustrators Mark Wilson, Leigh Hobbs, Ann James & Gabrielle Wang. Nestled in the Macedon ranges in the tiny hamlet of Riddell’s Creek, Dromkeen is 30 minutes drive from Melbourne Airport. This stately National Trust home has beautiful gardens with a range of Australian native and European plants, a gazebo and two resident alpacas. We have space in the large carpark for vans, motorhomes, or alternatively the horse paddock for tents and campers. Ample toilets available. Dogs permitted by advance request. Guests are welcome to visit the Tea Room, open 10am – 5pm Wednesday through Sunday. Our daily menu contains a selection of delicious cakes, devonshire tea, toasted sandwiches, specialty pies and weekly specials and of course, tea and coffee. Breakfast is served all day. Browse in the galleries or wander around the beautiful gardens which have trees more than 100 years old, some listed on the National Trust register. Meet our 2 Dromkeen alpacas Hannah and Lilly. ***Please note, we are a rubbish free campsite, so campers are asked to take their rubbish with them. Dromkeen has very clean toilets, but a reminder there are NO showers. Also all sites are unpowered, but upon request prior to arrival a powered spot may be available at an extra $10 a day. Please ring to verify this. During summer months because of fire restrictions we also remind campers there should be NO outside campfires. ****Also please note, each van or tent is considered a separate booking site and each site is considered a space for 2 adults and up to 4 children. Where there are 2 couples, they are required to make 2 separate bookings.

* Before taxes and fees

Galea Ranch

9 sites · Lodging, RVs, Tents20 acres · Taggerty, VIC

Across the road we have little fresh creek, fire pit and seats, with State park you will be in touch with nature surrounded by Wallabies, Deer and Native birds, and at night Little Sugar Gliders and much more. What to do: Mountain Bike riding Horseback riding/ Can use our horse yards Fresh water fishing/ The Acheron River 3mins up the road Snow Skiing /Lake Mountain 25mins away 4X4 Driving Bushwalking/Hiking Boating/Water Skiing/Fishing - Lake Eildon 30mins away Wild life watching Dirt Bike Riding Waterfalls/ Stevenson's Falls 17mins away. It's perfect to escape from the city rush and to get in touch with nature. You also have the beautiful Cathedral Mountain you can sit and watch the sunset on the rocks or The Acheron River to fish the fresh Rainbow trout or brown trout. And off season try your luck on the Redfin. You won't be disappointed. For the Hipcampers we do provide outside toilet, and the outdoor shower soon to be finished. FUTURE PLANS : Glamping Tent set out on a deck, with its own tub and out door setting, fitted with a Queen size bed and much more. : Outdoor kitchen/ BBQ area. : More Camping Areas set into the bushland.

* Before taxes and fees

Silver Creek Escape

1 site · RV, Tent1 acre · Hazeldene, VIC

If you’re looking for a place to set up camp while enjoying a hike through Kinglake National Park then our little space is just made for you. There are plenty of day walks starting right next to your camp or you can go for a swim in the nearby King Parrot Creek. With just 40min drive to Yarra Valley Wineries you are in a perfect location to set up camp and explore the region. Our pet friendly property is located in a quiet neighbourhood, easily accessible from the road (no 4WD needed) and ideal for swags, tents or campers. Power, tank water, bins and compost toilet are included! The space is part of our front yard and our property is located at the end of a quiet no through road. Your camp site is tucked in between the trees away from our family house with plenty of flat space. Sit at the picnic table or around the fire pit (season permitting) and take in the piece and quiet with plenty of wildlife to enjoy.

* Before taxes and fees

By the Cathedral

8 sites · RVs, Tents35 acres · Buxton, VIC

35 acres of mostly cleared land Native wildlife - kangaroos, wombats Exotic wildlife Deer Great sunrise/sunset views Quiet Large Dam for fishing and swimming with natural creek running through the property Feed the horses Central to bushwalking, Local Townships of Marysville, Buxton and Alexandra

* Before taxes and fees

Deep Creek Retreat

5 sites · RVs, Tents20 acres · Darraweit Guim, VIC

Scenic River Flats Camping & Caravaning Escape Escape to our serene farm property just 45km from Melbourne, where open paddocks meet the picturesque banks of Deep Creek. Set up camp in a spacious, flat paddock shaded by majestic river red gums and immerse yourself in nature’s tranquility. Cast a line in the creek for a relaxing afternoon of fishing, and keep an eye out for local wildlife – you might spot a platypus gliding through the water or koalas nestled high in the trees. Wake up to the call of kookaburras and enjoy a peaceful setting perfect for both campers and caravanners. Take a short walk to the nearby cider brewery for a taste of local flavor, or plan your stay around the annual Camp 4 Cancer fundraising event held on the neighboring property. Campfires permitted in desginated areas when restrictions aren't in place. Firewood can be provided (See extras) Good access for all types of vehicles and caravans. Pet friendly as long as your pets are friendly!

* Before taxes and fees

The Back Paddocks

5 sites · RVs, Tents110 acres · Ventnor, VIC

Your choice of your very own 10 acres of pasture, although you will have to share it with wallabies, bandicoots, a variety of birds and the occasional echidna. Views of Bass Strait and Western Port and walking distance to PHILLIP ISLAND Winery. Only 5 minutes drive to great surf and swimming beaches and 7 minutes to the Penguin Parade. Now for the best part. We are located in the "Dark Sky" of PHILLIP ISLAND, with amazing opportunities for astrophotography or simply stargazing in peace and quiet under the Milky Way, only the sound of distant surf crashing and wind through the trees.

* Before taxes and fees

Boulder Brook Valley

1 site · RV, Tent100 acres · Bulla, VIC

This 100 acre farm provides a dip into the outback with less time spent travelling for hours around victoria We live here as a family on the front half of the property and are currently using it to farm pigs and chickens, grow hay and keep bees Enjoy a campsite with complete privacy from our family and neighbours, and take a breather from the noise of the world Complete serenity & privacy and only 45 minutes from the CBD, 10 minute drive to diggers rest and sunbury if you need supplies and only 5 minute drive to the nearest servo You can even have pizza delivered to this property!! :o "I like that boulder, that is a nice boulder" - Donkey

Cooking equipment

* Before taxes and fees

Top-rated campgrounds near Dandenong Ranges National Park

Park Lane Phillip Island

61 sites · Lodging, RVs, Tents10 acres · Cowes, VIC

Escape to Phillip island, the natural playground of picturesque beaches, beautiful coastlines, and native Australian wildlife. From cabins to caravanning and camping. There’s something for everyone. Whether you’re looking for adventure at a maze of things or on the high ropes course, or the serenity of nature walks, penguin parades, and wildlife parks, or to hit the beach for a surf or swim. The island has you covered. We look forward to welcoming you at Park Lane Phillip Island Holiday Park. Whether you’re a big or small family, a couple on a romantic getaway, or a just group of friends and looking for adventure, Phillip Island is stacked full of activities, eateries, and breath-taking scenery to keep you busy for the duration of your stay. With our incredible onsite theme park, A Maze’N Things, you might not even need to leave the holiday park at all! We offer mini golf, a high ropes course, a maze, and rooms full of curiosities. There’s also an onsite brewery and restaurant! Park Lane Phillip Island Holiday Park really does have it all.

* Before taxes and fees

Berry's Beach Farm, Phillip Island

4 sites · RVs, Tents80 acres · Ventnor, VIC

Set on an 80-acre working farm, close to the Phillip Island Nature Park, pristine surf beaches, and wineries. The four spacious campsites are set on a sheltered rise overlooking Phillip Island and the Peninsula. Share a private spot with the local wildlife, birds, and wallabies. Phillip Island Winery is less than a 500m walk and the Phillip Island Nature Park Penguin Parade is a short drive We only cater for self-sufficient motorhomes, campers, and caravans. You must have your own toilet facilities, and take all waste with you. Dogs are welcome, must be on-leash.

* Before taxes and fees

Iron Brook Donkey Farm

22 sites · RVs, Tents30 acres · East Warburton, VIC

Rolling hills of mountain pasture, backing on to the Yarra State Forest. Bushwalk along the little creek among tall trees and majestic tree ferns, or just sit in a deck chair and take in the exquisite views at the top of the hill. Multiple tracks head through the Yarra State Forest where you can wind your way along dirt roads through to Noojee, Powelltown, or Reefton, each of which have a cosy pub at the end of the drive. There are different campsite locations on the property, depending on if you would like isolation or convenience. We also offer excellent toilet and bathroom facilities which are now included with all bookings. Iron Brook Donkey Farm is located on rolling hills of mountain pasture, backing on to the Yarra State Forest. Bushwalk along the little creek among tall trees and majestic tree ferns, or just sit in a deck chair and take in the exquisite views at the top of the hill. Multiple tracks head through the Yarra State Forest where you can wind your way along dirt roads through to Noojee, Powelltown, or Reefton, each of which have a cosy pub at the end of the drive. The donkey farm is situated conveniently, halfway between the popular redwood forest, and the giant Ada tree walk. Just chill in your own time, or book an activity or a donkey ride. Donkeys can take riders up to 70kg We do allow pets, but this MUST be discussed with us prior to booking as we have strict rules around this. We also allow campfires only when fire restrictions aren't in place - which is often all summer. Children under 3 are free, but for insurance purposes, please mention them in the comments. Day visitors are $20 per person, which incudes a donkey patting session. This property has an overall capacity to ensure that our number of visitors remain low. This not only ensures that campers recieve the space and peace they look for in a campsite like this, but also so that we can ensure the bathrooms can be kept clean and not overloaded. This is also a part of our COVID safe plan. Due to this overall capacity it is important that you book for the number of people that you intend to have stay, as while we try to accomodate increases to booking numbers, they are not guaranteed unless booked. If we have met overall capacity then we may not be able to approve increases to booking numbers. This is for the comfort and safety of all our visitors. Thank you If you intend to purchase firewood or power or donkey rides or anything from the Donkey Shop during your stay, please bring cash to pay, and payments must be made up front, unfortunately, too often guests have been leaving without having paid for their rides or firewood.

* Before taxes and fees

Strath Creek Station

9 sites · RVs, Tents90 acres · Strath Creek , VIC

Nestled in the valley of a thousand hills, Strath Creek Station is your ideal quick getaway, being only a 1 1/2-hour drive from Melbourne CBD. Situated on 90 acres with direct access to the King Parrot Creek, we are dog-friendly and have a large secure dog park for your pooch to exercise and play, but dogs must be on lead in camping areas. There is a large flat camping area that can accommodate any size self contained caravan, including fifth wheelers or horse goosenecks. A large rustic rotunda with BBQs is available for those lazy afternoons spent relaxing by the creek. For cooler nights, there is a huge firebox.

* Before taxes and fees

Yarra Valley Vineyard Views

6 sites · RVs, Tents5 acres · Melbourne, VIC

**Summer Season 2024/2025** Due to an over demand we require weekend stays during the Summer months November to March to be a minimum two night stay. Guests are required to check in on Fridays, with Friday and Saturday nights as the two night minimum. Weekends during this period need to be booked by contacting hosts who will open the sites on the calendar on request to allow the booking to be done online. Those guests requiring a longer stay that overlap a weekend can also be accommodated. Just give us a call and we will find a spot for you. If you are checking dates and a weekend is open, then luck is with you and I have opened the calendar as I'm working on site. If this is the case, single night stays can be booked. *_*_*_*_*_*_*_*_*_*_*_*_*_*_*_*_*_*_*_*_*_*_*_*_*_*_*_*_*_*_*_*_*_*_*_*_*_*_* Looking for a peaceful and secluded spot to park up whilst exploring the Yarra Valley winery region, the Dandenong Ranges, or some of Melbourne's close regional towns like Healesville, Yarra Glen and Warburton? We have opened up a beautiful flat expanse at the rear of our five acre property and made it available to self contained campers and caravaners. We are travelers ourselves and often find it difficult to find peaceful yet secure spots that allow us to explore capital cities and the lovely areas around them. Most cities tend to have caravan parks in the outer suburbs and these can often resemble concrete jungles and be very busy leaving you feel like you have to pay a top premium to be cramped into a space. But what options do you have if you want to explore a vibrant city like Melbourne. See a show, do some shopping, eat out at some of the World's greatest restaurants. Yes, we all should splurge every now and then even when on the road. Our property lies at the very start of the Yarra Valley. It is surrounded on three sides by the magnificent Helens Hill vineyard. In the Summer months you can watch the fruit come onto the vines and in the Winter the views open up to see the kangaroos bouncing though the rows and often silhouetted against the skyline sunsets. We are less than 5 minutes to Lilydale town center. Supermarkets, restaurants, service centers, parts stores, hardware are all on the doorstep, yet looking out over the vines you wouldn't know. Lilydale is 38 kms from Melbourne CBD and there is a train station with ample day parking making it super easy to explore the heart of Melbourne and return 'home' to your country retreat for the night. Myki cards available on site FOC. There is a dump point only 3kms away at a local caravan park for those that need it and at our property water can be available to fill your tanks if needed for a small donation. There is no water or power connection on the sites but you can release your grey water to nourish the grass. Lilydale has a large laundromat available to you. We have a beautiful covered eating area with BBQ available so if the weather turns inclement you can still eat out yet under cover. All campers must be 100% self contained. These are remote sites with no connections and there are no toilet facilities available. We have restricted our area to a maximum of 6 sites to ensure that everyone has their space. Sites are not marked and locations will be on a first booked basis. Owners will direct you to your areas. The area is beautifully flat and does absorb water well but care must be taken to not tear it up after heavy rains. Please seek assistance from owners rather than tearing up the grass as a tractor is available. We can cater for large sized vans and even large motorhomes. Tents are welcome. The property is pet friendly but not fully fenced so your furry friends would need to be on lead. We have our own dogs on the property. Hipcamp being USA based describes the sites and vehicles in USA terms and lengths. There is no way to alter this but please be aware. We cater for Aussie sized caravans and 4wd vehicles. 14 or 15m long all up, no problem. Just in a 4x4 with roof top tent and awning, we have you covered. Cruising the country in a Commodore with a pop top, all good here. Please be aware that we do share a boundary with a working vineyard and they do occasionally have a tractor or crew out in the vines doing some work. There can be a bit of farm machinery work every now and then but this is beyond our control and generally very minimal as vines dont take much looking after unless its harvest night.

* Before taxes and fees

The Fern Glade

3 sites · RVs, Tents20 acres · Murrindindi, VIC

Nestled right beside the Murrundini River, all 3 campsites are beside the river, and well spaced apart for privacy and peace. Campsite 2 (site two) is shady, surrounded by tall swamp gums, black wood wattles and tree ferns. This spot is at its best from late spring through to autumn . Site One is a large flat area beside the river that is good all year round. It has fencing and gates, perfect to let dogs run free without going too far. Site 3 (Craig's flat), is a large open campsite, able to take more camper-vans/ tents with plenty of space. All sites have fire places. And there are plenty of fish for those that want to try their luck. The original home stead (built in 1876) burnt down in the 2009 black Saturday fires. There still remains many 150+ year old elms and other European trees near the toilet block, which are delightful in autumn. We have some fantastic views from the hill up and down the Murundindi Valley, especially at sunset. We're located only a few short km's from Wilhelmina Falls and Murundindi Scenic Reserve, you get the best part of the river, without the crowds. We are a short drive from Melbourne, and easy access to the townships of Yea and Yarra Glen for supplies if you need them. Amazing, abundant & rare bird life to enjoy and photograph. (see guests photos)

* Before taxes and fees

Shacks at Kardella Park

20 sites · Lodging, RVs, Tents47 acres · Indented Head, VIC

Shacks at Kardella is a 47-acre lifestyle farm close to the beach at Indented Head on the Bellarine Peninsula. Our property has cows, goats, miniature horses and plenty of native birdlife. Walking distance to the beach and general store/post office which sells coffee, beer, wine and other essentials. The campsite is 500 metres from the Indented Head boat ramp. Come and enjoy our peaceful slice of the thriving Bellarine Peninsula! Campsites have no amenities so campers need to BYO everything (including drinking water and camping toilet) and leave no trace. Dog friendly.We offer general camping a garden glamping bell tent.

* Before taxes and fees

Angel Peace

6 sites · RVs, Tents5 acres · Noojee, VIC

Leave the noise of the city behind and travel to Noojee, a town named after the Aboriginal word for contentment or place to rest. Surrounded by lush native bush and towering tree ferns, this picturesque town on the Latrobe River sits on the main access route to the ski fields of Mt Baw Baw and is home to a wide range of heritage and natural attractions. The property consists of 5 acres with a river, so you can set up a tent right next to the river and fish for dinner. The house is about 100 meters away from the camping area, but there are about 1000 Oregon trees that are 50 years old, so you can't see each other well, so you can enjoy nature freely. 4WD is recommended for easy access. We recommend tents/swags. 4WD with Heavy trailer is still very hard to enter when it is wet. Guests will have access to a toilet throughout their stay. There is a communal fire pit available, so guests can enjoy a campfire on the cool evenings. Please abide by any local fire restrictions during your stay. You can walk from my house to Noojee Heritage Centre, Trestle Bridge, Alpine Trout Farm, and Noojee Hotel for a delicious pizza, Cool beer from tool sheed and coffee from red duck cafe. You can drive to Toorongo Falls, Ada Tree in 10 minutes and Baw Baw Ski Resort in 40 minutes.

* Before taxes and fees

Krystal Waters

3 sites · RVs, Tents26 acres · San Remo, VIC

Located on Phillip Island Road just before the town of San Remo and the bridge to Phillip Island. The property is 26 acres with beach frontage to Western Port Bay and views of French Island. The land has been used for pasture, mostly for cattle, with a large dam wall which at one time had a small gauge train track on top running to the old port of San Remo. These days the property is used as a hobby farm with a few cattle, a vegetable garden, some fruit trees, and replanting of native trees. We offer three RV/tent sites on the property, with our caretaker also residing onsite. While the sites ensure privacy, guests may encounter others during their stay since restroom facilities are shared among all campers. There is 1 shower with hot water and 1 flushing toilet. Site 1 stands apart from the other two sites, equipped with both power and water. Sites 2 and 3 are situated 20 meters apart, however, guests can spread out more if they do not need power. We're currently in the process of expanding our property, constructing several new sheds. As a result, you might notice building materials on-site. We've made every effort to separate these materials from the campsites and keep them out of the way. Our site is on a very busy main road and is easy to miss if you’re driving fast. I have a big sign on our gate but you may need to slow down in order to see it! The GPS should guide you right to the property. Please note, because of our elevated location the winds can be strong at times - but the views make it worth it in our opinion!

* Before taxes and fees

Kinglake East End

5 sites · RVs, Tents3 acres · Kinglake, VIC

91 Gordons Bridge Road was once part of a pine plantation that had been planted in the late 60's and harvested just prior to the Black Saturday fires. Across the road from the Kinglake National Park, it is surrounded by protected flora and fauna. Victoria's Pink heath, wattles and tea tree provide a pleasant backdrop in season. It is not an uncommon site to see an echidna or two on the property, with black wallabies, kangaroos and wombats often seen grazing on pasture in the evening. The mud turrets are the home of endangered land yabbies and Lyrebirds have been seen in the area. Feral deer have come to inhabit nearby properties and sometimes wonder down the track. Birds watchers will enjoy a variety of bird life that inhabit the area including eagle hawks, fairy wrens, kookaburras, rosellas, parrots and yellow tailed black cockatoos when in season. The area is a popular spot for hikers with the start of the Mountain Creek trail only a few kms down Gordons Bridge Road and serious cyclists train regularly, on Mount Slide, especially on the weekend. For the serious wine lover the property is within 15km of the Yarra Valley Wine Growing area with many wineries offering tastings.

* Before taxes and fees

Fowkes Family Flower Farm

4 sites · RVs, Tents50 acres · Kinglake, VIC

🚙4WD ARE A MUST DURING WET WEATHER. Our farm is only a minutes' drive from the township of Kinglake. Or a 20-minute easy walk to shops and cafes. We are close to all the Yarra Valley and Kinglake Ranges have to offer from wineries to the National Parks for hiking, biking and 4WD driving. Fowkes family farm is a small, hobby, flower farm. Made up of 15 acres of working land and 35 acres of bush land. We have a 2-acre orchard with seasonal fruit available to be picked. ( Dec - April) The farm has over 100 king protea bushes and many other varieties of protea. Seasonal pick your own flowers too. ( Aug - March) Backing onto the national park and walking tracks. Jehoshaphat Gully, Shelley Harris Track, Mt Jerusalem Track. Walking distance to Kinglake historic walk, Cookson Hill Track, Mt Everard Track, Bollygum Park. Visit Mason Falls Waterfall, 12-minute drive to Kinglake West. We have 2 dogs, 5 pet sheep and 4 lambs, 1 blue tongue lizard The farming area is completely fenced in, this is to keep the deer out, but you can venture out onto the property bush land with the correct map and navigation equipment. Eagles, cockatoos, black cockatoos, kookaburras, magpies, rosellas, king parrots, Gang-gang cockatoo, honey eaters can be spotted most days and lyrebirds if you’re keen to go looking. Small playground with swings, slide, monkey bars and sandpit. Taxi service - The Graceful-Goat to get you around to the local eats and wineries. The Kinglake market is on the 4th Sunday of each month 10-2pm except December which is the Sunday before Christmas - twilight 2-7pm No market in January. The St. Andrews market is every Saturday, 9am to 1pm just 12 minutes down the mountain. Whittlesea market is on every Monday 9am - 1pm

* Before taxes and fees

Tranquil Waters Campground

6 sites · RVs, Tents80 acres · Hoddles Creek, VIC

The 80-acre semi-rural property is a nature lover's paradise, boasting vast bushland teeming with native vegetation and wildlife. The property offers a tranquil retreat with the highlight being a spectacular spring-fed dam, providing a serene oasis for relaxation and recreation. The diverse ecosystem supports a variety of flora and fauna, making it a haven for nature enthusiasts and those seeking a peaceful escape from the hustle and bustle of city life. The property is located close to a myriad of wineries and is not far from the Yarra Valley towns of Gembrook, Yarra Junction and Warburton. Each with their own unique qualities. When travelling to the Tranquil Waters Campground it can be a little tricky. Please pay attention to the photos and map provided for directions - the address is 600 Thonemans Road, Hoddles Creek. The area is known for its beautiful walking tracks located in the Kurth Kiln national park which is only a few Km's drive. If fruit picking is something you would like to try, then Rayner Orchard located at 60 Schoolhouse Road, Woori Yallock would be a great place to visit. Its hard to go past the Gladysdale Bakehouse or Carrige Cafe in Seville for brunch/lunch if that's your thing. Alternatively you can simply relax and enjoy the peace an quite! For the fishing enthusiasts, we added 100 Golden Perch to the spring-fed dam in November 2022 - they should be about big enough to catch and have some fun with. Note: Don't camp near or directly under trees, please camp within the open areas for safety reasons.

* Before taxes and fees

The best camping near Dandenong Ranges National Park guide

Overview

About

Bridging the gap between Melbourne’s eastern suburbs and the Yarra Valley wine region, the rolling hills of the Dandenong Ranges are a natural playground for adventurers. Historic villages pepper the hillsides, from where miles of hiking, mountain biking, and horseback riding trails lead the way through the mountain ash forests and fern valleys. Admire the views from Mount Dandenong, take a ride on the historic Puffing Billy Steam Train, climb the 1,000 steps trail up One Tree Hill, then picnic by Olinda Falls. There are no campgrounds in the park, but campers will find plenty of options in the surrounding villages.

When to go

Summer is the most popular time to visit the national park, and the forested hills provide cooler temperatures to the city. It can still reach 30℃, though, so plan outdoor activities for early or late in the day. For the most stunning views, visit in autumn (March-May) to admire the fall foliage or spring (Sept-November) to visit the region’s flower gardens—the month-long Tesselaar Tulip Festival in Silvan is a local favourite.

Know before you go

The Dandenong Ranges National Park is about a 45-minute drive from Melbourne and is split into five main sections: Doongalla Forest, Ferntree Gully, Sherbrooke Forest, Olinda Forest, and Mt Evelyn Forest. You can reach the southern sections of the park via the villages of Upper Ferntree Valley and Belgrave, both on the Melbourne metro, or the northern sections of the park via Olinda and Mount Dandenong, connected by bus to Melbourne. Free parking is also available throughout the park.
There is no admission fee to enter Dandenong Ranges National Park, and facilities include toilets, picnic areas, and BBQs. Visitor centres are located in Belgrave, Olinda, Kallista, and Sassafras villages, where you’ll also find gas stations, cafés, and shops.
There are accessible toilets, picnic areas, and trails at the national park, and a TrailRider all-terrain wheelchair is also available (advance booking required).

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Hipcamp acknowledges the Traditional Custodians of country throughout Australia and their connections to land, sea and community. We pay our respect to Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Elders past, present and future and extend that respect to all Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples today.