Tower Hill Wildlife Reserve (Parks Victoria) - Tower Hill (VIC)

5 /5 Cathy Cooper: Beautiful interesting place in an old volcano. Heeded the advice to go at dusk and sure enough the koalas were active, running around on the ground, climbing trees, and one male was growling up in the tree. We also saw kangaroos. However no emus, and we think maybe they had settled in for the night somewhere. Returned the next day mid morning and found the emus near the Lava Tongue boardwalk. Also saw a wallaby and lots of birds. The koalas were up in the trees quiet and resting.

5 /5 Sarah Lawson - Counselling & Psychotherapy Parkdale: This is now one of my favorite places! Beautiful lakes surrounded by volcanic ridges and koalas in the trees! Ive lived in Australia 30 years and never seen anything like this. I loved every moment. The koalas, emus, birds and surrounds. Will visit again! Great day out and a mix of short and long walks to match all abilities.

5 /5 Majo Martinez: Wanna spot many cute koalas, this is the place! A lot of them are setting at the trees over the parking would recommend to come around 8:30am if you want to see other animals. After 11am parking is quite busy but 2 emus will come to the picnic area cause they know its lunch time. They are a bit naughty but they dont bite, dont be afraid just dont feed them!

5 /5 Mustafa Adamjee: Absolutely worth a visit after completing The Great Ocean Road. Was a highlight of the trip. Emus and Koalas absolutely everywhere and a number of beautiful winding trails to go walkabout. No entry fee.

5 /5 krrazie: Tower Hill Wildlife Reserve, located about 15 kilometers northwest of Warrnambool in Victoria, is a unique and significant natural area nestled inside a dormant volcanic crater. Spanning over 600 hectares, the reserve is a remarkable blend of geological wonder, rich biodiversity, and deep cultural heritage, offering visitors an immersive experience in nature and history. Geological Significance Tower Hill is one of the most impressive examples of a nested maar volcano in Victoria. Formed by explosive volcanic activity over 30,000 years ago, the area features crater lakes, scoria cones, and ash layers that create a dramatic and visually stunning landscape. It stands as an excellent outdoor classroom for those interested in geology and volcanic formations. Native Wildlife and Vegetation The reserve is a sanctuary for a wide range of Australian wildlife. Visitors can easily spot emus, kangaroos, koalas, wallabies, and echidnas as they explore the park. Tower Hill is also known for its birdlife, with over 160 recorded species, making it a favorite destination for birdwatchers. The wetlands, woodlands, and grasslands provide diverse habitats that support this abundance of fauna. Much of the vegetation is the result of one of Australia’s earliest large-scale revegetation efforts. Since the 1960s, thousands of native trees and plants have been reintroduced, transforming the once-degraded area into the thriving ecosystem it is today. Cultural Importance Tower Hill is located on the traditional lands of the Eastern Maar people and holds deep cultural and spiritual significance. The area is one of the oldest known sites of Aboriginal settlement in Victoria, with artifacts and stone tools discovered in the volcanic ash layers. Guided cultural tours, operated by the Worn Gundidj Aboriginal Cooperative, offer visitors a unique opportunity to learn about the traditions, bush foods, and stories of the local Aboriginal people, deepening the appreciation of the land and its history. Walking Trails and Visitor Amenities The park offers a variety of walking tracks that range from short strolls to moderate hikes. Trails such as the Lava Tongue Boardwalk and Journey to the Last Volcano provide beautiful views of the crater and surrounding wildlife. Picnic areas are available with tables and electric BBQs, making it a great spot for families and nature lovers alike. Although the Visitor Centre is currently closed for planning and development, the reserve remains fully open to the public. Accessibility and Guidelines Tower Hill Wildlife Reserve is easily accessible via the Princes Highway and is a worthwhile detour for anyone traveling along the Great Ocean Road. Entry to the reserve is free. Visitors are encouraged to stay on designated paths, avoid feeding the animals, and carry out all rubbish to help preserve this special environment. Conclusion Tower Hill Wildlife Reserve is a hidden gem in Victoria’s southwest—a place where ancient geology, vibrant wildlife, and Aboriginal culture come together. Whether youre taking a peaceful nature walk, photographing native species, or learning about Indigenous traditions, Tower Hill provides a memorable and enriching experience for all