Discover Maroondah Reservoir The Ultimate Family Day Out Near Melbourne
Next Escape
If you’re looking to unplug and escape the city without driving for hours, Maroondah Reservoir Park is the perfect destination. Located just 70km from Melbourne’s CBD, this park offers a stunning mix of history, nature, and the perfect setting for a family picnic.
In our latest video, we take the Nexcape rig out to explore the grounds, climb the famous “Rose Stairway,” and take in the views from the top of the 41-meter-high dam wall.
Why We Love Maroondah Reservoir Park
Maroondah Reservoir isn’t just a park; it’s a piece of Melbourne’s history. Built in 1927, the dam provides critical drinking water to Melbourne’s northern and western suburbs. But for us, it’s all about the landscape and the wildlife.
What to Expect:
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The Rose Stairway: A beautiful climb flanked by rose bushes that come alive with colour in the spring.
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Wildlife Encounters: Keep an eye out for Kangaroos, Cockatoos, and the local “Bin Chickens” (Ibis) that roam the picnic areas.
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The Dam Wall: Standing 41 meters high, the view from the top is incredible. You can see the massive 10,400-hectare catchment area and the 22,000 megaliters of water it holds.
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Picnic & BBQ Facilities: There are plenty of gazebos, benches, and gas BBQs available, making it a top-tier spot for a family gathering or even a birthday party.
Tips for Your Visit:
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Vehicle Access: The roads leading into the park are blacktop and easy to drive. However, the parking lot is gravel, so if you have a lowered car, take it slow!
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Walking Tracks: If you’re not a fan of stairs, there’s a winding path that will take you to the top of the reservoir without the steep climb.
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Operating Hours: The gates lock at 8:00 PM, so make sure you’ve packed up your gear and headed out before then!
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Hiking Connections: For the serious hikers, there’s a track leading from the lookout toward Donnelly’s Weir Picnic Area, which connects to the massive Bicentennial National Trail.
Your Next Escape Awaits
Maroondah Reservoir is a reminder that you don’t have to go far to find a great escape. Whether you’re there for the photography, the hiking, or just a quiet afternoon by the spillway, it’s a must-visit spot on the outskirts of Melbourne.
Have you visited Maroondah Reservoir? Let us know your favourite picnic spot in the comments of the video!
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