We want as many people as possible to experience the restorative health and wellbeing benefits of our beautiful state forests.

At many of our sites, we’ve integrated accessible walkways and paths, viewing platforms and toilet facilities to make it easier for all Victorians to enjoy time in nature.

Here are some of our state forest highlights to try out this summer.

Safe and accessible walks

Stevensons Falls, located just 15 minutes from Forrest in the Otway Forest Park, is one of the most spectacular waterfalls in the Otways.

Visitors with mobility needs can travel along this accessible path from the picnic area through towering Californian redwood trees. The path then crosses over the Gellibrand River from the campground through to a viewing platform at the base of the waterfalls.

A concrete and metal walkway goes over a small rocky river. A variety of green trees surround the area.

- There is an accessible walkway from the capark to the waterfalls

A wooden seat on a viewing platform looks out onto rushing waterfalls and lush green ferns

- The accessible viewing platform takes visitors up close to the falls

Located about 90 minutes north-east of central Melbourne is the spectacular Wirrawilla Rainforest Walk in the Toolangi State Forest.

With more than 450m of wide and non-slip surface boardwalk and handrails, this is an easy and accessible walk for all visitors, including people in wheelchairs or with mobility needs.

The circuit trail winds past ancient myrtle beech trees and southern sassafras trees, providing a dense canopy that shades the understory all year round – the perfect spot to be on a warmer day. Ferns, mosses and fungi love the dark, damp conditions, thriving in this environment.

Admire the sweeping views

Keppel Lookout in Marysville State Forest makes it easier for everyone to enjoy one of the region’s most spectacular vantage points.

This wheelchair-friendly lookout offers views across Marysville, the Cathedral Range State Park, Steavensons Falls and the Acheron Valley. Visitors can drive right up to the site and take the short and flat gravelled pathway all the way to the lookout.

A man and his dog on a metal lookout overlooking mountains
Keppel Lookout, Marysville State Forest

Scenic and accessible camping

Enjoy the peaceful bush surrounds from the picnic area at popular family-friendly Chinamans Campground in Mount Cole State Forest or stay longer in one of the many accessible campsites.

Located 25 minutes east of Ararat, it features accessible walking paths connecting campsites and amenities including the car park, toilets, picnic shelter and picnic tables.

Pathways lead up to two wooden picnic tables in a grassy area. The area is surrounded by tall gum trees
Chinamans Campground, Mt Cole State Forest

Or head to the southern end of Mount Cole State Forest to Ditchfield Campground, a 24-minute drive from Beaufort, where you’ll find a large grassy picnic spot and camping area.

An accessible pathway connects the toilet, carpark, camping area and the historic Ditchfield Hut, where the entry has been widened to allow for wheelchairs.

A short drive will also get you to Victoria Mill Scenic Reserve and Ben Nevis for a nice day out.

A wide, flat footpath runs between a gravel carpark, an open grassy area and a toilet block.
Ditchfield Campground, Mt Cole State Forest

Explore our waterways

Explore the impressive and diverse wetlands of Gunbower Island Canoe Trail in the Gunbower State Forest.

This approximately 5 km return canoe route is located on the Gunbower Creek, 6km south of Koondrook and a stone’s throw from the Murray River. The river is teeming with a rich of variety aquatic plants, waterbirds and wildlife which are especially active at sunrise and sunset.

An accessible canoe launching ramp is available so that everyone can enjoy safe and easy access to the water.

An all-abilities canoe launcher at Gunbower Creek
Gunbower Island Canoe Trail, Gunbower State Forest

Page last updated: 03/12/24