O'Briens Crossing Lerderderg State Park
O'Briens Crossing is a beautiful entry point to Lerderderg State Park with river views tall gums and easy nature time for the whole family. It is the kind of day trip where my two kids race to the water edge while I take a deep breath and settle into that calm forest rhythm. Tommy the Labrador would call it a perfect sniff and stroll kind of day.
Why locals love this crossing
The river curls through a rugged valley and the bush soundtrack does the rest. You get picnic tables plenty of shade and those classic goldfields vibes that make a simple sandwich taste amazing. Bring your camera and take it slow for creek reflections and kookaburra laughs.
Walks from the water
From the day visitor area you can wander the O'Briens Crossing to Tunnel route for an easy leg stretch with dogs on lead or step up to the East Walk and Cowans Track loop for a proper adventure through steep country. There is something for every comfort level so choose your own pace.
Other nearby walks: These walks are all very user friendly and better signposted than the walks from O'Briens Crossing.
- Whipstick loop walk
- Lerderderg Heritage River Walk
- Domino Rail Trail Walk
Safety and access notes
O'Briens Road is unsealed but suitable for two wheel drive and the crossing is one of the few spots where regular cars make it to the river. Always check conditions carry water and plan your turnaround time. Reception can be patchy so download maps before you go.
Family friendly by design
We love O'Briens Crossing for simple picnics and low fuss exploring. Paths near the river are gentle and there is space to sit watch the water and listen for frogs. Keep an eye on little ones near the river edge and leave no trace so the next family gets the same magic.
Make it a full day out
Pair your visit with a stop in Blackwood for coffee or add a forest wander to Garden of St Erth. If you still have energy drive to Trentham for the falls or cruise to Woodend for a late lunch. It is an easy day trip that feels like a mini break.
When to go and what to bring
Start early for cool air and soft light. Pack layers sturdy shoes snacks and water. Reception can drop so let someone know your plan. After rain expect creek crossings to feel higher and slower so adjust your plans and keep it safe.
Why it wins my heart
I love places that make nature feel simple and welcoming. O'Briens Crossing gives you river song tall trees and just enough adventure to make the kids glow on the ride home. It is my kind of easy win in Lerderderg State Park.
Trivia: The Lerderderg River carved a gorge about three hundred metres deep through sandstone and slate creating the striking valley that almost splits the park in two.
Getting there and bases
O'Briens Crossing is located at O'Briens Road, Greendale VIC 3341.
- Drive times (approx.): Melbourne to O'Briens Crossing 1 hr 15 mins. Bacchus Marsh to O'Briens Crossing 35 mins.
- Good bases: Blackwood and Trentham for coffee gardens short walks and calm country stays.
- Visitor Centres: Bacchus Marsh Visitor Information Centre 215 Main Street, Bacchus Marsh for maps and local tips.
Parks Victoria Info
View the Parks Victoria guide to Lerderderg State Park here.
Disclaimer and warning: This information may be out of date. Use at your discretion.
Nearby Wineries and Tourist Destinations
While you are here why not visit these other great locations:
- Blackwood Mineral Springs Reserve: Classic mineral springs and picnic space. Address 41 Golden Point Road Blackwood VIC 3458.
- Garden of St Erth: Historic garden with Diggers shop and seasonal colour. Address 189 Simmons Reef Road Blackwood VIC 3458. More info here.
- Hanging Rock Reserve: Iconic volcanic rock walk and picnic areas. Address South Rock Road Woodend VIC 3442. More info here.
- Hanging Rock Winery: Cellar door with views to the rock. Address 88 Jim Road Newham VIC 3442. More info here.
- Mackenzies Flat Picnic Area: Family picnic spot and riverside walk to Grahams Dam. Address Lerderderg Gorge Road Darley VIC 3340. More info here.
- Mount Macedon Memorial Cross: Significant war memorial with sweeping views. Address 405 Cameron Drive Mount Macedon VIC 3441. More info here.
- Mount Macedon Winery: Cellar door and dining among the trees. Address 433 Bawden Road Woodend VIC 3442. More info here.
- Trentham Falls: Tall single drop waterfall in cool forest. Address Falls Road Trentham VIC 3458. More info here.
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