Melbourne · Nature
Lysterfield Park: Lakeside Walks and Kangaroo Spotting
On Melbourne’s south-east fringe, Lysterfield Park combines a lake, picnic areas and bushland trails. Walk the lakeshore or take the 5.5 km Lake Circuit Trail, where kangaroos are often seen.
A lake and bushland escape in Melbourne’s south-east
Lysterfield Park is a large park centred on Lysterfield Lake, with lakeside picnic areas, beaches and walking trails through native vegetation. It’s a good option for a relaxed half-day outdoors, whether you want a short lakeside stroll or a longer circuit walk. Kangaroos and other wildlife may be seen around the park, but sightings are never guaranteed.
What to see and do
Start near Beach Carpark and explore the lakeside picnic area and nearby beach. The shoreline, lake and wooded opposite bank make a pleasant setting for a walk and a break at the picnic tables. Swimming access is limited to the designated beaches; the lake is not patrolled by lifeguards.
For a longer outing, the Lake Circuit Trail is a 5.5 km loop that takes about 1.5 hours to walk, before allowing extra time for photos and stops. Parks Victoria recommends starting from Mahogany Carpark and walking anticlockwise. The trail passes through native vegetation around the lake; kangaroo sightings are common, though wildlife can be unpredictable.
Getting there
The park’s main entrance is on Horswood Road. Drivers can follow signs to the relevant car park, including Beach Carpark or Mahogany Carpark. The main car parking area is listed as open from sunrise to sunset; check Parks Victoria’s current park page for any changed conditions before setting out.
There is no regular public transport route directly to the lakeside car parks described here. If travelling by train, check current PTV services and plan onward transport from the station; do not rely on a taxi or rideshare being immediately available.
Closures and conditions
Parks Victoria lists overnight closures of parts of the Northern Conservation Zone on a number of nights from 17 August to 27 November 2026, between 4:00 pm and 8:00 am. This affects the specified area, not necessarily the lake visitor areas. Check the current closure notice and follow signs at park entrances on the day of your visit.
Park access, facilities and conditions can change. Check the official Parks Victoria page before travelling.
Tips for your visit
- Allow around half a day if you want time for both the lakeside area and a circuit walk.
- Wear comfortable walking shoes for the Lake Circuit Trail, which includes gravel and dirt surfaces and some slopes.
- Wildlife is best watched quietly from a distance. Do not feed or chase kangaroos.
- Check park alerts and public transport updates before leaving, especially if visiting during a listed closure period.
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