Wilderness Landscape & Natural Heritage
Hepburn Regional Park spans over an area of rugged volcanic terrain, located approximately 120 kilometers northwest of Melbourne, Victoria. The park protects ancient volcanic features such as lava flows, craters, and volcanic cones that contribute to a distinctive landscape shaped millions of years ago. Its environment supports diverse ecosystems ranging from dry sclerophyll forests to grassy woodlands, home to native species including kangaroos, echidnas, and an array of birdlife. The park is also adjacent to the well-known Hepburn Bathhouse & Spa, tapping into the region’s mineral-rich waters that have been a draw since the 19th century’s gold rush era. Visitors are attracted to the park’s combination of geological wonders and natural quiet, with numerous walking trails offering access to volcanic viewpoints, native bushland, and historic remnants of the gold mining era. Notable features include the Blowhole, an old lava flow formation, and the metasedimentary rock outcrops that showcase the area's geological history. Hepburn Regional Park serves as an important conservation area while providing opportunities for passive recreation like hiking, wildlife observation, photography, and educational pursuits about geology and local biodiversity. It is managed to maintain a balance between public access and protection of sensitive habitats, and it plays a key role in preserving the landscape character of Victoria’s Central Highlands. The park appeals to visitors seeking scenic outdoor escapes combined with geological interest close to Melbourne's urban area.
