Moondarra - Moondarra State Park - West & South Gippsland

Moondarra - Moondarra State Park

Moondarra State Park is known for its wildflower displays, particularly along Seninis Track where sixteen species of native orchid have been recorded.

Things to see and do

Scenic drives, bushwalks, picnicking, swimming, camping, fishing and nature study are popular activities and some roads are suitable for bicycle riding. Spring (the main wildflower season) and summer are popular times to visit the park, but the park has plenty to offer throughout the year.

Camping and Accommodation

A camping area with fireplaces, pit toilets and picnic tables is provided on the banks of the Tyers River on Seninis Track. Motel accommodation and caravan parks with on-site facilities are available at nearby Rawson and Erica.

Picnicking and walks

Moondarra State Park is a delightful setting for a picnic. Barbeques and picnic tables are provided at Tyers Bridge and at Seninis camping area. While no dedicated walking tracks are provided, the numerous 4WD tracks can help you explore the park.

History

The Moondarra grazing run, covering much of the area occupied by the park was first taken up in early 1850's. An overgrown mustering yard is the only reminder of this period of the parks history.

The discovery of gold at Walhalla, Toombon and Red Jacket in the 1860's sparked a rush of miners to the area. Miners had to contend with cold winters, thick scrub and extreme transport difficulties. Decades of lobbying by residents of the goldfields finally led to the government constructing a narrow gauge railway line in 1899. The route of the old railway can still be traced.

The railway opened the area for settlement and a network of bush tramways were constructed through the forests, stripping the area of its valuable timber. The remains of a number of these tramways can still be seen within the park. The park was proclaimed in January 1986.

Access for Dogs:

Cats, dogs and domestic pets are not permitted within the park.

Location and Access

Moondarra State Park is situated approximately 160 kilometres east of Melbourne. The park is reached from the Princes Highway at Moe by following the Moe-Rawson Road.

Care should be taken when driving as the roads throughout the area are narrow and winding. Log trucks regularly use the Tanjil Bren Road. A number of unsurfaced tracks in the park are suitable for 4WD vehicles only. To avoid getting lost please keep to marked tracks.