Henleys Picnic Area (Cardinia Reservoir Parks)

This area has additional visitor advice This area has reported issues This area is closed

Explore

Henleys Picnic Area (Cardinia Reservoir Parks)

Explore Cardinia Reservoir Parks by visiting Henleys Picnic Area. Spend time kayaking, canoeing or simply relaxing by the water.

Enjoy the scenic views of Aura Vale Lake as you explore this urban park.

No swimming is permitted at this location.

How to get there

Henleys Picnic Area (Cardinia Reservoir Parks)

Need to know

Henleys Picnic Area (Cardinia Reservoir Parks)

Safety in nature

You can benefit both mind and body when you get outdoors to explore and experience Victoria's natural places. Before you go, take a look at our safety tips and check our changed conditions and closures information for a great visit.

Accessibility

Visiting a park can be more of a challenge for people with disabilities, however, in Victoria there are a wide range of facilities to help people of all abilities enjoy our wonderful parks around the state. Parks Victoria provides a range of a equipment, including all-terrain and beach wheelchairs, facilities, accommodation and accessibility information and programs to help you plan and enjoy your visit to Victoria's parks.

Assistance dogs are welcome in Parks Victoria parks and reserves. Entry requirements apply for parks and reserves that are usually dog prohibited, such as national parks.

Warnings & Restrictions

Dogs

Dogs are not allowed

Restrictions

No drones without a permit
No fires permitted
No motorised vehicles, including electric bikes or scooters allowed on management vehicle only paths, tracks or roads
No firearms allowed
Restricted opening hours
No camping

Warnings

Other warnings
Unpatrolled area
Water hazards
Shallow water

Deep water

Submerged obstacles
Animals and pests
Snakes

Be Prepared

Stay safe and get the most out of your park visit by preparing for natural hazards and other outdoor risks in Victoria’s parks. You are responsible for your own safety and the safety of those in your care. Find out more.

Change of Conditions

Nature being nature, sometimes conditions can change at short notice. It’s a good idea to check this page ahead of your visit for any updates.

Closure of Cardinia Reservoir Park

Cardinia Reservoir Park will be closed from April the 7th 2026 until approximately June the 16th 2026 to enable Melbourne Water to safely undertake extensive works within the Cardinia Reservoir Park area. Works involve the felling and removal of a number of large pine trees which have been infested with Pine Scale. The Park must be closed in order for these works to be undertaken safely. We apologise for any inconvenience.

Closure of walking trail bridge - western end of Crystal Brook picnic area carpark - un-named trail

A small walking track bridge has been damaged by a fallen tree at the Western end of the Crystal Brook carpark. The bridge has been closed. Ranger staff are currently clearing the tree and assessing the damage to the bridge. Visitors are advised not the cross the bridge until repair works are completed.

Poor Water Quality

Aura Vale Lake is prone to naturally occurring algae blooms. Contact with affected water may cause harm to humans and animals.

Please consider this prior to touching the water and fishing in the lake.

If water quality testing for algae is above the guidance recommendations, Parks Victoria may look to formally close the lake until water quality has improved.