There’s something special about visiting our state forests in the warmer months. Whether it’s escaping the heat for the lush, shaded rainforests like those at Wirrawilla Rainforest Walk in the Toolangi State Forest, or taking an invigorating dip in the cool waters of our rivers like at Rubicon River at Kendalls Campground. Or perhaps finding a peaceful spot close to the cascading waters of our waterfall sites like at Stevensons Falls in the Otways.
Here are another 7 sites to experience our state forests at their refreshing best:
1. La La Falls, Yarra State Forest, Wurundjeri Country
Enjoy a gentle 2.8 km walk to La La Falls on the outskirts of Warburton. Climb through a lush and cooling forest canopy of mountain ash and beautiful tree fern-lined gullies to this small waterfall and viewing platform. Stay the night in the forest at Big Pats Recreation Area, a 14-minute drive from the falls car park, or check out the many accommodation options in Warburton.
2. The Channel Loop, Avon-Mt Hedrick Scenic Reserve, Gunaikurnai Country
About 50 minutes north of Rosedale in Gippsland, stunning gorges line the 2.1 km Channel Loop Walking Track. Flanked by shady casuarina trees and native vegetation, this loop is a challenging but rewarding walk, with opportunities to swim along the way. There are several great camping options nearby dotted along the Avon River, including Huggetts Crossing and Dermody’s Campground.
3. Snobs Banyarmbite Falls, Rubicon State Forest, Taungurung Country
Or cool down from the waterfall mist drifting from the 100m drop at Snobs Banyarmbite Falls located a 14 minute drive from Eildon. There are several options to camp along the Rubicon River including Rubicon Camping Area, Tin Hut, The Boys Camping Area or Kendalls Campground.
4. Ingrams Campground, Erica State Forest, Gunaikurnai Country
If you have a 4WD, Ingrams is a great family friendly option with easy access to the Western Tyers River at the site of an historic timber mill. There are three river platforms for easy river access and fishing, as well as a small recreation oval, complete with goal posts, ready for a game of kick-to-kick.
5. Rocky Ned Campground, Strathbogie State Forest
Set up camp at Rocky Ned Campground surrounded by native forest at this hidden gem about 40 minutes from Violet Town. Take the short 1.8 km Rocky Ned Falls Walk exploring the granite boulder formations and admiring the views looking north across the Lima East Valley.
6. Running Creek, Mansfield State Forest, Taungurung Country
If you’re headed towards Mansfield, Running Creek Campsite located on the banks of the Howqua River is the place to be. This spot is great for fishing, bushwalking and four-wheel driving, with both 2-wheel and 4-wheel drive accessible campsites.
7. Wail Campgrounds, Wail State Forest, Wotjobaluk, Jaadwa, Jadawadjali, Wergaia and Jupagulk Country
Surrounded by native bush and dotted along the Wimmera River, the four campgrounds at Wail Campgrounds near Dimboola are the perfect spot to sit back, relax and watch the birds and wildlife. Located in the Wail State Forest and adjoining the Little Desert National Park, the area has a rich and diverse cultural history.
Explore more on our app
For a full list of our recreation sites, download our More to Explore app which features on and off-line maps.
Stay safe around water
When spending time near waterways, it's important to plan ahead, check the weather forecast and be aware of the latest flood information.
To improve your safety around beaches, rivers and lakes, remember to:
- be aware of the local water environment and weather conditions before entering the water
- obey all water safety signs
- don’t drink alcohol while recreating around water, or when supervising children
- make sure there’s someone looking out for you.
For more information on water, flood and activity safety:
Page last updated: 23/01/25