One Tree Hill Picnic Ground is a forest picnic area near the upper end of the Kokoda Track Memorial Walk, commonly called the 1000 Steps. You can reach it by road as well as on foot, so a picnic here does not require completing the steep climb from Ferntree Gully.
Tables, shelters, barbecues and toilets make it a useful place for lunch among the trees. It is also part of a commemorative landscape associated with the Kokoda campaign. Come for the forest and picnic setting rather than expecting a broad panoramic lookout.
Picnic Facilities and the Forest Setting
The picnic ground provides tables, a large pavilion, grassy areas and electric barbecue facilities. Bring your own supplies and allow around an hour for a relaxed lunch, with extra time if you intend to walk. The shade and elevated location can make it feel cool even when conditions are warmer below the ranges.
Toilets include an accessible unisex toilet and parent facility. Use the facilities before heading onto a longer trail, and take rubbish away when you leave. Do not light fires, and follow any restrictions affecting barbecue use.
The 1000 Steps Connection
Walkers climbing the Kokoda Track Memorial Walk can continue towards One Tree Hill for a break in the forest. The memorial commemorates battalions involved in the Second World War’s Kokoda campaign, giving the area a significance beyond fitness training.
The climb from Ferntree Gully is steep and has uneven steps. Lyrebird Track provides an alternative route for part of the outing, but it also has sustained gradients. Choose the full route before starting and remember that reaching the upper picnic ground is only part of a return walk.
If different members of your group have different walking abilities, driving to One Tree Hill is a practical way to enjoy the picnic ground together. Do not assume an accessible picnic facility means the connecting Kokoda walk is suitable for wheelchairs or prams.
Accessibility Around the Picnic Area
Designated accessible parking is available near the picnic area, although the bays are standard width and do not provide generous space for side unloading. The picnic surface is crushed rock, and accessible tables have an open side for wheelchair users.
The direct path from parking to the accessible toilet is mainly sealed but has a slope. Visitors who need particular transfer space or assistance on gradients should review the park’s access information before travelling. The large pavilion does not contain the accessible picnic tables described near the barbecue. Choose your picnic spot with that distinction in mind, rather than assuming every sheltered table has the same approach space.
Road Access, Gates and Park Rules
Vehicle access is via Lord Somers Road, approached from the surrounding One Tree Hill Road and Churchill Drive area. Follow picnic-ground signs, as the lower Ferntree Gully entrance for the 1000 Steps is a different starting point.
Vehicle gates normally open from 6am to 9pm daily. Read the entrance signs and allow time to leave before closing. The national park closes during Extreme Fire Danger conditions and severe weather, while temporary management operations may affect individual areas at other times.
Dogs are prohibited, apart from assistance dogs meeting Parks Victoria’s entry requirements. Wear suitable shoes for any forest walk, keep children close and respect closed tracks. For a simple outing, stay near the picnic facilities and save the more demanding descent and return climb for another visit.
One Tree Hill FAQs
Can I drive to One Tree Hill Picnic Ground?
Vehicle access is via Lord Somers Road, so a picnic does not require climbing the 1000 Steps. Use the upper picnic-ground destination when navigating, rather than the lower Ferntree Gully entrance.
What are the vehicle gate hours?
Vehicle gates normally open from 6am to 9pm daily. Temporary closures and entrance signs take precedence, so plan to return from a walk and leave before closing. Complete forest walks in daylight.
Are there barbecues and toilets?
The picnic area has an electric barbecue, tables and toilets, including an accessible unisex toilet and parent facility. Bring food and water, take rubbish away and have a meal option that does not depend on the barbecue.
Is One Tree Hill accessible?
There are designated parking bays, accessible tables and a mainly sealed toilet approach. Crushed-rock surfaces, slopes and standard-width parking bays affect usability; the large pavilion has different table arrangements.
Can I bring a dog?
Pets are prohibited within Dandenong Ranges National Park, including this picnic area. Visitors travelling with an assistance dog should check Parks Victoria entry requirements before arriving.
Does One Tree Hill have a panoramic lookout?
The main appeal is the forest picnic setting and Kokoda memorial connection. Choose a dedicated lookout elsewhere if a broad distant panorama is the main purpose of your trip.
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