Leaghur - Leaghur State Park - Northern Country

Leaghur - Leaghur State Park

Leaghur State Park protects some of the most significant Black Box wetland and woodland communities in Victoria. The park is on the Loddon River floodplain in the state's north west. Flooding can occur in winter and spring, replenishing the park with rich, stunning wetlands and vigorous growth. Flooding is essential for the health of Black Box communities.

Exploring the Park

The 2022 hectare park offers many opportunities to relax and enjoy the peaceful bushland and its interesting history. Take a leisurely drive, enjoy a picnic or go for a pleasant bushwalk.

Car Touring

A leisurely drive following the scenic route marked on the map is a fantastic way to begin exploring the park.

Picnicking

Pack a picnic or have a barbecue and enjoy a relaxing time with family and friends in the picnic areas near the main entrance and at Lake Meran. Fireplaces are provided. Camping is allowed in both picnic areas.

Walking

Go for a walk through the Black Box woodlands and quietly observe Whistling Kites, Brown Falcons, Superb Fairy-wrens and many other birds soaring high above the wooded and wetland areas. Keep an eye out for wallabies or kangaroos grazing on the open plains at dawn and dusk.

History

Early settlers found the Black Box had limited value as sawn timber and harvesting was limited. Today, fine old trees survive, with much of the habitat still intact. You may discover scar trees and oven mounds - reminders of the Aboriginal people who hunted here, and of settlers seeking materials for shelter. Over 100 archaeological sites have been recorded to date.

Dairy Track is a reminder of the farmers who travelled this track to deliver fresh cream to the Appin dairies, while wild oats and other weeds suggest that the Red Plain was once used for cropping.

The park has a rich history of stock grazing and scattered settlement, although little evidence remains of three early homesteads built in the park.

Stands of non-indigenous eucalypts and other trees planted in 1950 (experimental plantation) and in 1972 (to enhance the entrance) are a notable feature at the main entrance and picnic area.