Lake Surprise Walk (Budj Bim National Park)

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Explore

Lake Surprise Walk (Budj Bim National Park)

Head out on the Lake Surprise walk and descend into the crater of this dormant volcano. Follow the lake's edge through Manna Gum and Blackwood bushland before looping back to Budj Bim Campground. The peak of Budj Bim, which has great cultural significance to the Gunditjmara people, overlooks the trail.

How to get there

Lake Surprise Walk (Budj Bim National Park)

Lake Surprise Walk (Budj Bim National Park)

Need to know

Lake Surprise Walk (Budj Bim National Park)

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 motorised vehicles, including electric bikes or scooters allowed on management vehicle only paths, tracks or roads
  • No firearms allowed
  • No dogs allowed
  • No drones without a permit
  • No camping
  • No generators
  • No bicycles
  • No fires permitted
  • No horses

Warnings

  • Other warnings
    • Limbs may fall take care
  • Water hazards
    • Deep water
  • Terrain hazards
    • Slippery rocks

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.

Upcoming temporary park closure due to aerial deer control program

Upcoming temporary park closure due to aerial deer control program
Budj Bim National Park will be closed from 7am Monday 31st August to 5.30pm Friday 4th September 2026 due to an aerial deer control program. The Budj Bim campground, picnic area, Lake Surprise and Lava Canal circuit walks will remain open. Parks Victoria staff will be on-site at the campground and picnic area to assist with any visitor inquiries.


All other areas of the park will be closed to ensure a safe operation. Staff and/or signage will be located at park entry points and key locations to communicate the closure to the public. 

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