Badger Weir Picnic Area
A serene rainforest oasis with a gentle creek, perfect for picnics and easy nature walks.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Escape the crowds
Badger Weir Picnic Area
Best Time
Escape the crowds
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A serene rainforest oasis with a gentle creek, perfect for picnics and easy nature walks.
"Stepping out of the car, you’re surrounded by towering trees and the gentle sound of Badger Creek."
Pack for the Path
Wear sturdy shoes; trails can be muddy and uneven. :athletic_shoe:
Family-Friendly Fun
Great for kids to play by the creek and explore. :child:
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Badger Creek & Weir
Badger Weir Picnic Area
Wade through shallow creek waters or admire the flowing weir, a peaceful natural spectacle.
Lyrebird Trail
Badger Weir Picnic Area
An easy, scenic loop through lush rainforest, perfect for spotting local birdlife.
Picnic Facilities
Badger Weir Picnic Area
Enjoy a meal amidst nature with ample picnic tables, BBQs, and shelters.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Timing is Key for Tranquility
Footwear for Forest Exploration
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
Pack for the Path
Wear sturdy shoes; trails can be muddy and uneven. :athletic_shoe:
Family-Friendly Fun
Great for kids to play by the creek and explore. :child:
Respect Nature Rules
No dogs, bikes, or camping allowed. :noentrysign:
Capture the Greenery
Immerse yourself in lush greens and the sound of water. :camerawithflash:
Tips
from all over the internet
Pack for the Path
Wear sturdy shoes; trails can be muddy and uneven. :athletic_shoe:
Family-Friendly Fun
Great for kids to play by the creek and explore. :child:
Respect Nature Rules
No dogs, bikes, or camping allowed. :noentrysign:
Capture the Greenery
Immerse yourself in lush greens and the sound of water. :camerawithflash:
Picnic Perfection
Plenty of tables and BBQs for a relaxing outdoor meal. :picnic_table:
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors consistently praise Badger Weir Picnic Area as a beautiful, serene escape with lush rainforest vibes and a peaceful creek. It's highly recommended for families and nature lovers seeking a tranquil day out, though some note that facilities can occasionally be affected by vandalism.
"Badger Weir Picnic Area is a little gem tucked away in the Yarra Ranges, just outside Healesville. If you’re after a peaceful spot to reconnect with nature, this place delivers. The moment you step out of the car, you’re surrounded by towering mountain ash trees, thick ferns, and the gentle sound of Badger Creek trickling through the forest. It feels like stepping into a fairytale rainforest.
The picnic area itself is super well-maintained. There are plenty of tables and shelters scattered around, so even on busier days, you can usually find a good spot. Everything feels clean and cared for, with modern toilets and BBQ facilities nearby. It’s an ideal place for families, especially with kids who love running around open spaces and spotting colorful birds—rosellas and cockatoos are regular visitors.
If you’re in the mood for a walk, the Lyrebird Trail is a beautiful loop through the forest. It’s only a couple of kilometers long but gives you a full experience of the lush bushland. The trail isn’t too hard, though it might be a little uneven in parts. Still, it’s manageable for most people and totally worth it for the scenery alone.
One thing to keep in mind: no dogs allowed, and no bikes or camping either. It’s all about preserving the natural environment, which you really appreciate once you’re there. It’s quiet, fresh, and honestly a bit magical.
Parking is easy, and the whole place feels safe and welcoming. It’s the kind of spot that makes you slow down, breathe deep, and feel grateful for the simple things. A perfect little day trip from Melbourne if you want to escape the noise and soak in the serenity.
PS: all 3 batteries from public BBQ FACILITY WAS STOLEN same night 11th Apr 2025 what a shame !"
Siddhartha Maharjan
"Beautiful, scenic, clearly-signed walk on well maintained paths from the picnic ground/parking area that can be completed as a loop. Access across the creek is via a number of solidly constructed bridges.
The picnic grounds have tables in the open areas with gas BBQs, a rotunda and drinking fountain as well as relatively clean flushing toilets adjacent to the top part of the parking area. There's also the requisite information board that includes a map of the area.
Less than 10 minutes drive from Healesville."
Louise Bentley
"Great picnic area and 3 good different walks to the Wier. Well worth the drive."
Cornelius Mutsaers
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Badger Weir Picnic Area is about a 1 hour 20-minute drive from Melbourne CBD. It's located 7km from Healesville, making it a convenient day trip destination. Parking is available on-site.
Public transport options to Badger Weir Picnic Area are limited. It's best accessed by car. Consider combining your visit with other Yarra Valley attractions if driving from Melbourne.
The drive is scenic, taking you through the Yarra Valley. Expect winding roads as you get closer to the picnic area, surrounded by lush forest.
Yes, there is parking available at the picnic area. It's generally easy to find a spot, especially if you arrive earlier in the day.
Cars can be parked at the designated parking area adjacent to the picnic grounds. You can then walk to the picnic tables and trails.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
No, entry to Badger Weir Picnic Area is free. You can enjoy the natural beauty and facilities without any admission cost.
While there are no official opening hours posted, it's a public park. Visitors are advised to exit before 8 pm.
No booking is required for general picnic use. There are plenty of tables available, but it's first-come, first-served, especially on busy weekends.
Dogs, bikes, and camping are not permitted at Badger Weir Picnic Area to preserve the natural environment.
The picnic area has accessible facilities, including toilets. Some walking tracks may be uneven, so check conditions before you go.
🎫 🏞️ Onsite Experience
The Lyrebird Trail is a popular loop walk, approximately 1.2-1.5 km long.
Absolutely! Kids love wading in the shallow creek, climbing rocks, and running on the grass. The walks are generally easy and kid-friendly.
You can often spot local birdlife, including rosellas and cockatoos. The forest setting provides a habitat for various native Australian animals.
Yes, there are gas BBQs available at the picnic grounds, making it a great spot for a BBQ lunch. However, be aware that facilities can sometimes be subject to vandalism.
The picnic area offers tables, shelters, BBQs, flushing toilets, and a drinking fountain.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
There are no cafes or restaurants within the Badger Weir Picnic Area itself. It's a picnic spot, so you'll need to bring your own food and drinks.
Yes, gas BBQs are available for public use at the picnic grounds. It's a perfect spot for a relaxed BBQ lunch surrounded by nature.
Bring your own food, drinks, picnic blanket, and any cooking utensils you might need for the BBQ. Don't forget insect repellent, especially during warmer months.
Healesville, which is a short drive away, has various cafes, bakeries, and supermarkets where you can purchase food and supplies.
While not explicitly prohibited, it's advisable to consume alcohol responsibly and in moderation, respecting the family-friendly nature of the park.
📸 📸 Photography
Capture the lush greenery, towering trees, and the flowing creek. The Lyrebird Trail offers beautiful forest scenes, and the weir itself is picturesque.
Yes, it's an excellent spot for nature photography with its dense ferns, tall mountain ash trees, and the tranquil creek. The light filtering through the canopy creates a magical atmosphere.
Early mornings or late afternoons offer softer light, ideal for capturing the forest's ambiance. Midday can be harsh, but the canopy provides shade.
Yes, keep an eye out for native birds like rosellas and cockatoos. Be patient and respectful of their space when photographing wildlife.
A wide-angle lens is great for capturing the expansive forest. A macro lens can be useful for close-ups of ferns and smaller flora. A tripod can help with low-light conditions.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
The easy walking tracks, like the Lyrebird Trail, are manageable for most children, offering a gentle introduction to bushwalking.🚶♀️ Nature Walkers & Hikers
The paths are generally well-maintained, though some can be uneven or muddy, so sturdy walking shoes are essential. You'll be rewarded with stunning forest scenery, the sound of flowing water, and opportunities to spot local wildlife.📸 Photographers
+1 The play of light through the canopy creates a magical atmosphere, perfect for landscape and nature shots. Don't forget your camera to document the vibrant birdlife and serene forest scenes.Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Exploring the Trails
This trail is well-maintained and provides a fantastic immersion into the Yarra Ranges' natural beauty. You'll encounter towering mountain ash trees, lush ferns, and the soothing sounds of the forest.Other shorter walks lead to the Badger Weir itself, offering different perspectives of the creek and its surroundings.
The trails are perfect for a leisurely stroll, allowing you to appreciate the local flora and fauna, including various native birds.Family Fun and Picnics
The open grassy areas provide ample space for kids to run around and play. With numerous picnic tables and BBQ facilities, it's an ideal spot for a relaxed family outing.Remember that dogs are not permitted at Badger Weir, ensuring a tranquil environment for all visitors and native wildlife. The facilities are well-maintained, including clean toilets, making it a comfortable and convenient destination for a day trip with the family.
Nature and Photography Opportunities
+1 The gentle sound of the creek and the diverse birdlife create a serene soundtrack for your visit. Photographers will find plenty of opportunities to capture the magical light filtering through the canopy, the textures of the forest floor, and the movement of the water.+1Early mornings and late afternoons often provide the best lighting conditions for photography, casting a warm glow on the landscape. Keep an eye out for native birds like rosellas and cockatoos, which are common visitors.
Social
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