Things to do in Gippsland, Victoria: The Best National Parks

The Alpine National Park is an adventure-lover’s dream. Hike Victoria’s highest mountain ranges, explore wildflower draped landscapes on horseback or head out on world-class mountain bike trails. Run wild rapids on white-water rafting trips, four-wheel drive the secluded reaches of the park or cross-country ski through tangled snow gum forests. You can follow the sharp spine of The Razorback to Victoria’s second highest peak, Mount Feathertop and take in the stunning panoramas over the Great Dividing Range. Or conquer Victoria’s highest peak, Mt Bogong. Head out on the Falls to Hotham Alpine Crossing and hike over towering alpine ridgelines, through lush river valleys and unforgettable alpine scenery.

Croajingolong National Park follows the remote coast of far-east Victoria and is home to ancient forests, pristine inlets, giant sand dunes and abundant wildlife. Canoe, kayak or boat to explore Tamboon, Mallacoota and Wingan Inlet. Basic but picturesque campgrounds are scattered along the many inlets of the coast along this part of Victoria. These sheltered water bodies are also perfect for fishing. Explore the diverse nature of Croajingolong and set out on one of the shorter walks within the park or experienced hikers might fancy the ultimate challenge of the Wilderness Coast Walk. Near Thurra River, you can see the historic lighthouse of Point Hicks. Take in ocean views and see whales on their annual migration from October to May.

Wilsons Promontory National Park is the southernmost tip of mainland Australia. Walk remote coastal bushland trails and swim at pristine beaches dominated by granite tors. Camp in comfort at family-friendly Tidal River or hike to a more secluded campsite. Either way, the local wombats, kangaroos and emus are waiting to meet you. Swim at Norman Beach or one of The Prom's more secluded beaches. Go snorkelling for a unique underwater view of Victoria's largest marine national park. Scale the granite peaks of Mount Bishop or Mount Oberon for panoramic views, or enjoy an overnight hike. In the north there's a remote and rugged wilderness to explore, while the south is home to the historic Wilsons Promontory Lightstation and Sealers Cove.

Tarra-Bulga National Park in South Gippsland is well known for its giant Mountain Ash trees, beautiful fern gullies and ancient myrtle beeches. Hidden within the Strzelecki Ranges, Tarra-Bulga National Park features lush fern-filled gullies, giant Mountain Ash and ancient Myrtle Beech. Visitors have long enjoyed strolling along one of the nature walks or picnicking beside a shady fern-lined creek. Walk to the impressive Corrigan’s Suspension Bridge, which stretches through the rainforest canopy, affording spectacular views of the lush fern gully on the forest floor below. Or picnic in a delightful setting, with three picnic areas; at the Visitor Information Centre, TarraValley and Bulga. Camping is not permitted within the park. Tarra-Bulga National Park is approximately 200 kilometres east of Melbourne. The park is reached from the Princes Highway at Traralgon by following Traralgon Creek Road to Balook. Alternatively the park can be reached from Yarram via the Tarra Valley Road or Bulga Park Road. Roads throughout the area are narrow and winding but offer marvellous scenery with panoramic views from several points, including Mount Tassie.

Spectacular year round, Baw Baw National Park covers a substantial part of the Baw Baw Plateau. As the snow melts see the hills come alive with vivid wildflower displays. Explore the wonderland of geological formations and walk or snowshoe one of the many trails that criss-cross through tangled snowgum forests. Walk a section of the Australian Alps Walking Track and discover Mushroom Rocks, a maze of giant granite tors rising from the forest. Head to Mount St Gwinear. Snowshoe, toboggan or cross-country ski one of the many trails that criss-cross the twisted snowgum forests. Walk the same trails in spring and see the Baw Baw Plateau come alive with a vivid display of wildflowers. Canoe or kayak down the pristine Thomson River.