Ferntree Gully Quarry Reserve

Ferntree Gully Quarry Reserve is a distinctive local park built around a former quarry and its deep lake. Located below the surrounding streets, the reserve combines dramatic rock walls and water views with walking paths, a playground, picnic facilities and fishing platforms.

The elevated recreation area is particularly appealing for families, while the paths descending towards the lake provide a short but scenic walk. Although it is not a large bushwalking destination, the reserve is a worthwhile place for a picnic, gentle exercise or a quieter outdoor stop near the Dandenong Ranges.

Playground, Lookout & Picnic Facilities

The playground occupies the upper part of the reserve near the Quarry Road car park. Its nature-based equipment includes a large sandpit, climbing logs, rope elements and swings.

Two metal slides extend down the hillside, taking advantage of the reserve’s sloping terrain. A lookout platform nearby provides views across the lake towards the exposed quarry wall.

Picnic facilities include:

• sheltered tables;
• barbecue facilities;
• grassy areas;
• seating;
• drinking water.

Visitors planning a picnic should bring their own food and drinks, as there are no cafes or shops inside the reserve.

Walking to the Quarry Lake

Concrete paths zigzag down the hillside from the playground and car park to the lake. Visitors can also use the steeper steps for a more direct route.

The gradual path provides changing views of the quarry, with the rock wall becoming increasingly prominent closer to the water. Fishing platforms extend over parts of the lake and offer additional places to stop and take in the setting.

Although the walk is relatively short, visitors should remember that the return journey is uphill. The sealed paths suit many prams and mobility devices, but the sustained gradient may still be challenging for some visitors.

Swimming, Fishing & Water Quality

Quarry Lake is deep, and its water quality can change rapidly. Knox City Council monitors the lake during the warmer months, generally from October to March.

Council discourages swimming, fishing and allowing dogs to enter the water. Visitors should check the latest council water-quality advice and follow all warning signs at the reserve. The most recently published test result classified the water as unsuitable for swimming or ingestion.

The lake has no lifeguards, designated swimming areas, or purpose-built water-entry facilities.

Dogs at Ferntree Gully Quarry Reserve

Dogs can be brought to the reserve, subject to Knox City Council rules and onsite signs. Owners must keep their dogs under effective control, clean up after them and prevent them from disturbing wildlife or other visitors.

Dogs should not be allowed to enter or drink from the quarry lake because water quality varies.

Getting There & Parking

Ferntree Gully Quarry Reserve is accessed from Quarry Road in Ferntree Gully. A small car park is located beside the playground and upper picnic area.

Parking is free but limited so that spaces may fill during weekends, school holidays, and warm weather. Visitors should avoid blocking residential driveways or roadside access.

Upper Ferntree Gully Station on the Belgrave Line is the closest railway station. You can reach the reserve on foot from the station, although the route includes hills and may not suit every visitor.

Allow approximately one to two hours for a walk, playground visit and picnic. You can also combine the reserve with the nearby 1000 Steps, Ferntree Gully Picnic Ground, or other attractions in the western foothills of the Dandenong Ranges.

Ferntree Gully Quarry Reserve FAQs

Can you swim at Ferntree Gully Quarry Reserve?
Knox City Council discourages swimming because the quarry is deep and its water quality can change rapidly. Check current council advice and follow onsite warning signs.

Is there a playground at Ferntree Gully Quarry Reserve?
Yes. The upper recreation area has nature-based play equipment, swings, a sandpit and two hillside slides.

Are dogs allowed at Ferntree Gully Quarry Reserve?
Dogs can visit subject to council rules and onsite signs. They must remain under effective control and should not enter or drink from the lake.

Is Ferntree Gully Quarry Reserve accessible?
The principal route towards the lake uses sealed, gradually descending paths, but the sustained slope can make the uphill return challenging for some visitors.

Is parking available?
Yes. Free parking is available near the Quarry Road entrance, but the car park is small and can fill at busy times.