Maroondah Reservoir Park
A stunning park featuring an impressive 41m dam wall, scenic walking trails, and beautiful gardens, just 1.5 hours from Melbourne.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Peaceful atmosphere
Maroondah Reservoir Park
Best Time
Peaceful atmosphere
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A stunning park featuring an impressive 41m dam wall, scenic walking trails, and beautiful gardens, just 1.5 hours from Melbourne.
"A truly scenic and serene spot nestled in the heart of Healesville, perfect for unwinding and reconnecting with nature."
🚗 Scenic Drive In
The drive to Maroondah Reservoir Park is as beautiful as the destination itself. Enjoy the Yarra Ranges scenery!
👟 Comfortable Footwear
Wear comfortable shoes for exploring the various walking trails and the dam area.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Maroondah Dam Wall
Main viewpoint
Marvel at the impressive 41-meter-high concrete dam, a striking blend of engineering and nature.
Waterfront Walking Trails
Various starting points
Enjoy scenic strolls through lush forests with opportunities for wildlife spotting.
Picnic and Garden Areas
Designated picnic spots
Relax and enjoy a meal amidst beautiful gardens and serene surroundings.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Timing Your Visit for Tranquility
Accessibility and Amenities
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🚗 Scenic Drive In
The drive to Maroondah Reservoir Park is as beautiful as the destination itself. Enjoy the Yarra Ranges scenery! +1
👟 Comfortable Footwear
Wear comfortable shoes for exploring the various walking trails and the dam area.
📸 Camera Ready!
Bring your camera to capture the spectacular landscapes and impressive dam structure.
💧 Pack Water & Sunscreen
Stay hydrated and protected, especially on sunny days.
Tips
from all over the internet
🚗 Scenic Drive In
The drive to Maroondah Reservoir Park is as beautiful as the destination itself. Enjoy the Yarra Ranges scenery! +1
👟 Comfortable Footwear
Wear comfortable shoes for exploring the various walking trails and the dam area.
📸 Camera Ready!
Bring your camera to capture the spectacular landscapes and impressive dam structure.
💧 Pack Water & Sunscreen
Stay hydrated and protected, especially on sunny days.
🐶 Dog-Friendly Areas
Dogs are welcome in the lower park areas, but not on the dam itself.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Maroondah Reservoir Park is widely praised as a peaceful, scenic escape, perfect for nature lovers and families. Visitors highlight the impressive dam wall, beautiful walking trails, and tranquil atmosphere. While generally well-received, some note that dogs are restricted on the dam itself.
"Maroondah Reservoir Park is a beautiful place to visit. The park has a peaceful atmosphere with a lovely forest walk and a small dam hike that’s enjoyable. The drive to the park itself is scenic and relaxing. Perfect spot for nature lovers to explore and unwind!"
I s k
"A Peaceful Hidden Gem in Healesville
A truly scenic and serene spot nestled in the heart of Healesville. This hidden natural retreat features beautifully crafted dams that sit harmoniously within the landscape, creating a perfect blend of nature and human touch. Surrounded by lush greenery and calm waters, it’s an ideal place to unwind, take a peaceful stroll, and reconnect with nature. A must-visit if you’re looking for tranquillity off the beaten path."
Piyush Singh
"A beautiful park just outside of Healesville. Lots of trails to walk along with a variation of difficulty, so good for all hikers. Some awesome views and wildlife to be seen along the way. You can't take your dog along the dam but you can take your dog on the lower park area. Lots of areas for picnics and good, clean toilet facilities. Highly recommended!"
Adrian Epstein
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Maroondah Reservoir Park is located approximately 1.5 hours (about 60-70 km) east of the Melbourne CBD, making it a popular day trip destination. +1
Driving is the most convenient way to reach the park, offering scenic routes through the Yarra Ranges. Public transport options are limited, so a car is recommended. +1
Yes, there is free parking available near the entrance and at Donnelly's Weir, which is a good starting point for walks.
Public transport to Maroondah Reservoir Park is challenging. While buses may go to nearby Healesville, you would likely need a taxi or ride-share for the final leg to the park.
Yes, the park is close to Healesville, which offers attractions like the Healesville Sanctuary and various wineries and local produce stores.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
No, entry to Maroondah Reservoir Park is completely free, making it an accessible and budget-friendly destination for everyone.
The park is generally open from 8 am daily, but closing times vary depending on the season. It's best to check the official website or Google for the most up-to-date hours before your visit.
No, reservations or tickets are not required as the park has free entry and operates on a first-come, first-served basis for parking and picnic spots.
Absolutely! It's a perfect spot for a day trip from Melbourne, offering a mix of nature, recreation, and scenic beauty.
While you can view the dam from various vantage points, access directly onto the dam structure might have specific restrictions. Always follow posted signage.
🎫 🏞️ Onsite Experience
The park offers a variety of trails, from easy strolls along the waterfront to more moderate hikes. Many start from the main dam area or Donnelly's Weir.
Yes, it's very family-friendly with a playground, picnic areas, and relatively easy walking paths suitable for toddlers.
Definitely! The park has numerous picnic tables, rotundas, and barbecue facilities, making it ideal for a family outing or a relaxed lunch.
Visitors often spot various bird species, and some have reported seeing kangaroos.
Yes, there are good, clean toilet facilities conveniently located within the park.
📸 📸 Photography
The dam wall itself offers dramatic perspectives, while the walking trails provide opportunities for capturing serene forest and water scenes. The viewpoint route is particularly scenic.
Absolutely. The combination of the imposing dam, the surrounding natural beauty, and the water creates excellent opportunities for landscape photographers.
Early mornings and late afternoons offer softer light and fewer crowds, ideal for capturing the park's beauty. Golden hour can be particularly stunning.
Drone usage is typically restricted in national parks and water catchment areas for safety and environmental reasons. It's best to check local regulations or the park's official guidelines.
You can capture wide-angle shots of the entire dam structure, close-ups of its concrete texture, and views from both above and below the dam wall.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Parents often appreciate the free entry and the abundance of space for kids to explore safely. The scenic drive to the park also adds to the adventure. Remember to bring snacks, water, and perhaps a ball for some outdoor fun in the open park areas.
🚶♀️ Hikers and Nature Enthusiasts
The park's natural beauty, combined with the impressive dam structure, makes for a rewarding hiking experience. Wildlife spotting adds another layer of interest for nature enthusiasts. Remember to wear appropriate footwear and carry water, especially if you plan on undertaking longer hikes.
📸 Photographers
Consider visiting during the golden hours of sunrise or sunset for the best light. The park's accessibility and free entry make it an easy spot to return to for different photographic conditions. Don't forget to capture the interplay of light and shadow on the dam and the serene reflections in the water.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Engineering Marvel: Maroondah Dam
From the base of the dam, you get a different perspective on its immense size and the power it holds. The area around the dam has been developed into a public park with gardens, picnic spots, and walking trails, seamlessly integrating this functional structure into a recreational space. The contrast between the raw concrete and the lush greenery is visually striking, making it a popular spot for photography.
Exploring the Natural Beauty: Trails and Wildlife
+1Keep an eye out for the local wildlife! While exploring the trails, you might encounter various bird species, and some visitors have been lucky enough to spot kangaroos. The park's natural setting provides a habitat for diverse flora and fauna, adding an element of discovery to your visit. Remember to tread lightly and respect the natural environment.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit