Murrungowar Picnic Ground Cabbage Tree Creek Victoria East Gippsland Rest Area Guide

Murrungowar Picnic Ground serves as a peaceful sanctuary within the dense, temperate rainforests of East Gippsland, Victoria. Located along the Princes Highway near the small community of Cabbage Tree Creek, this rest area and picnic spot provides a vital break for travellers journeying through the rugged timber country of the Victorian far east. The grounds are characterised by their towering eucalyptus trees and lush understorey of ferns, creating a cathedral-like atmosphere that feels worlds away from the highway traffic. This unique location offers a quintessential Gippsland forest experience, where the cool, damp air and the scent of damp earth provide an immediate sense of refreshment for long-distance drivers and nature enthusiasts alike.

The environment at Murrungowar is deeply connected to the wilderness heritage of the region. Visitors are often captivated by the vibrant birdlife that thrives in the surrounding canopy, including colourful parrots and the melodic calls of the lyrebird in the deeper gullies. It is a place where the scale of the Australian bush is truly evident, with massive logs and ancient ferns lining the quiet walking tracks. The sense of isolation is a major drawcard, offering a restorative environment that allows guests to stretch their legs and reconnect with the natural world. Whether you are stopping for a quick lunch or taking the time to explore the short forest loops, the site provides a stable and beautiful foundation for appreciating the diverse ecosystems that define the East Gippsland landscape.

Accessibility is excellent for those touring the coastal and forest regions, as the Princes Highway serves as the primary artery connecting Victoria with the New South Wales border. This makes Murrungowar Picnic Ground a convenient stop for those exploring the nearby Snowy River National Park or the coastal charms of Marlo and Cape Conran. The local community at Cabbage Tree Creek is deeply tied to the timber and tourism industries, maintaining a rugged and welcoming character that is typical of the region. For those interested in regional history, the area contains remnants of early forestry operations and served as a crucial stop for pioneers navigating the difficult terrain of the eastern forests.

A visit to Murrungowar is more than just a roadside stop; it is an invitation to explore the gateway to the far east of Victoria. The proximity to Orbost ensures that travellers can access essential services and regional dining, all while maintaining the seclusion of a forest retreat. As the seasons cycle through, the character of the Murrungowar forest transforms, offering cool, shaded refuge during the heat of summer and a mist-shrouded, emerald landscape during the winter months. Murrungowar Picnic Ground stands as a testament to the enduring appeal of the Gippsland wilderness, providing a peaceful sanctuary where every visitor can find a moment of stillness amongst the ancient trees and bird-filled gullies of the Cabbage Tree Creek district.

Murrungowar Picnic Ground

• Address: Princes Hwy, Murrungowar (via Cabbage Tree Creek) VIC 3889
• Website: Information available via Parks Victoria or East Gippsland Tourism.
• GPS Coordinates: -37.64094, 148.65302

Site Specifications

• Location: Situated on the Princes Highway, approximately 25km east of Orbost and 5km from Cabbage Tree Creek.
• Site Suitable For: Daytime rest stops, picnics, and nature walks. Limited short-term rest area parking for self-contained vehicles.
• Road Access: Sealed highway access suitable for all vehicle types including heavy transport and caravans.
• Site Surface: Gravel parking bays with natural dirt and grass picnic areas.

Available Facilities

• Undercover picnic tables and seating
• Public toilet block (accessible)
• Shared wood-fire barbecue pits (bring your own wood)
• Walking tracks through the temperate rainforest
• Large gravel area for long-vehicle parking
• Informational signage about local forest flora

Guest Information

• Essentials to Bring: Drinking water (tank water may be untreated), rubbish bags (take all waste out), and insect repellent.
• Pet Friendly: Yes, dogs are permitted on a lead within the picnic and parking areas.
• Fishing: Available at nearby Cabbage Tree Creek or the Snowy River in Orbost (approx 25km).
• Short Walks: Forest loop trails through the Murrungowar forest (approx 0.5km to 1.5km).

Local Amenities

Local Pubs

• Club Hotel Orbost — approx 25.5km
• Commonwealth Hotel Orbost — approx 25.8km
• Cann River Hotel — approx 48.5km

Places to Eat

• Cabbage Tree Creek General Store — approx 4.8km
• Orbost Bakery — approx 25.6km
• The Relic Cafe Orbost — approx 25.4km

Local Attractions

• McKenzie River Rainforest Walk — approx 22.0km
• Cabbage Tree Creek Flora Reserve — approx 5.2km
• Snowy River National Park — approx 30.0km
• Marlo Ocean Beach — approx 41.5km
• Cape Conran Coastal Park — approx 38.5km

Caravan Parks

• Orbost Caravan Park — approx 26.2km
• Marlo Caravan Park & Motel — approx 40.8km

Free Camps

• Bemm River Forest Campsites — approx 28.5km
• Wombat Creek Campground — approx 32.2km

Dump Points

• Orbost Public Dump Point — approx 25.8km
• Cann River Public Dump Point — approx 48.2km

Petrol Stations

• United Petroleum Orbost — approx 25.2km
• Ampol Cann River — approx 48.5km

Drinking Water Resupply

• Orbost Visitor Information Centre — approx 25.5km
• Cann River Rest Area Water Taps — approx 48.4km

Public Toilets

• Murrungowar Picnic Ground (On-site) — approx 0.1km
• Cabbage Tree Creek Public Toilets — approx 4.8km

Seasonal Weather Forecast

• Summer (December to February): Warm and humid with highs of 24°C - 30°C. Cool shade provided by the forest. Rain is possible.
• Autumn (March to May): Mild and calm (14°C - 21°C). Very stable weather with beautiful mist in the valleys.
• Winter (June to August): Cool to cold and often damp (11°C - 15°C). Overnight temperatures drop significantly in the forest.
• Spring (September to November): Refreshing temperatures (15°C - 23°C). High rainfall period with lush new growth and active birds.