Tower Hill Wildlife Reserve

In the heart of South West Victoria Tower Hill Wildlife Reserve is a special place where natural beauty, Indigenous history and wildlife come together. As a wildlife reserve west of Warrnambool you can explore an extinct volcano, see iconic Australian animals and walk through a landscape of native plants and scenery. This dormant volcano is a must see for anyone who loves Victoria’s cultural landscape.

Where Nature Meets History

Between Warrnambool and Port Fairy lies the Tower Hill State Game Reserve, a massive 600 hectare protected area of Victoria’s natural beauty. A sanctuary for native plants and wildlife including kangaroos, emus and koalas. This wildlife reserve west of Warrnambool is a birdwatcher’s paradise with blue wrens, eagles and birds of prey to spot. Self guided walks or join one of the many guided tours available.

Historical Roots of Hill Wildlife Reserve

Tower Hill has a history going back over 30,000 years and its significance is deeply connected to the culture of the Gunditjmara people. This area was formed by a massive volcanic eruption resulting in the volcanic cones, scoria cones and crater walls that make up the landscape today. The Indigenous people of the region have used the land for food, shelter and spiritual practices for thousands of years making it an important site of Aboriginal heritage. The site was further promoted in the 1850s when artist Eugene von Guerard painted the area in his famous painting “Tower Hill”. This painting brought the reserve’s unique landscape and its ecological and cultural significance to the attention of the world. The area was declared Victoria’s first national park in 1892 and since then has undergone extensive conservation work to restore the natural habitats. Today Tower Hill is not only a home to native animals and plants but also a symbol of reconciliation. Visitors can learn about the area’s Indigenous history through interpretive signs, tours and cultural programs that tell the story of the land and the Aboriginal people.

How to Get Here

Tower Hill Wildlife Reserve is just off the Princes Highway so is easy to get to for locals and tourists. 15km west of Warrnambool and 280km southwest of Melbourne so a popular stop on a day trip from either. From Melbourne the drive takes about 3 hours with stunning views of the Victorian countryside along the way. Public transport is also available with buses from Warrnambool to the reserve. When you arrive there is plenty of parking and a visitor centre with maps, trail guides and information about the reserve’s history and wildlife.

When to Visit Reserve: Best Times of Year

Tower Hill is open all year but the views change with the seasons. Spring and autumn are great for native plants in bloom and native animals active. Summer is perfect for 360 degree views from the crater edge. Winter is great for the lake and wetlands and migratory birds including the chestnut teal. If you’re interested in seasonal reptiles warmer months are best for lizards and snakes basking.

Wildlife Encounters at Hill Reserve

Tower Hill Wildlife Reserve is a sanctuary for native animals, where you can see them up close in their natural environment. There are large populations of kangaroos, koalas, emus and echidnas which can often be seen roaming around. Brushtail ringtail possums and various reptiles also thrive here during the warmer months. The wetlands are a bird watcher’s paradise with blue wrens to birds of prey like eagles. You can also see ducklings and other waterfowl in the crater lake. Tower Hill is a great spot for both novice and experienced birders. Whether you’re interested in animal spotting or simply enjoying the sights and sounds of the Australian bush, Tower Hill provides a truly immersive wildlife experience.

Journey to the Last Volcano

The Tower Hill volcano erupted around 30,000 years ago and is one of the world’s best examples of a dormant volcano maar. The reserve’s unique landscape includes cone shaped hills and lush landscapes to explore the ancient landscape. Walking the trails you can see the remnants of the initial eruption from the crater floor to the crater edge and get a glimpse into the area’s geological history.

Lava Tongue Boardwalk

The Lava Tongue Boardwalk is one of the easiest trails and takes you through wetlands and woodlands shaped by ancient lava flows. This 30 minute return walk is a chance to see native birds and animals in their natural habitat. Along the way there are interpretive signs about the reserve’s cultural and ecological significance.

Wagon Bay Loop

For a more in depth experience the Wagon Bay Loop is a 1.5km circuit that takes you further into the reserve. This trail goes through dense bushland, past wetlands and up to lookout points with 360 degree views of the volcano. Along the way you can walk and explore, see native plants, bird species and maybe even a few seasonal reptiles. The trail is moderate so it’s a great option for those who want to get some adventure with great views.

Guided Tours

Add to your visit one of Tower Hill’s guided tours. These tours are led by knowledgeable guides and will give you in depth information on the Aboriginal history, wildlife and geology of the area. You’ll learn about Aboriginal foods, traditional practices and the reserve’s role in preserving Indigenous history. Guided tours are a key program for conservation and education so everyone gets a meaningful experience.

Self-Guided Walks

Want to take your time? The reserve has 4 self guided walks, each with a different perspective of the Tower Hill State Game Reserve. Walks like the Lava Tongue Boardwalk and Fairy Island circuit have short and long walks for all fitness levels. You can stop and have a picnic along the way and take in the views of the crater lake and bushland.

The Area Around the Hill

The area around Tower Hill has lots of other attractions and activities. Port Fairy is a charming coastal town with a mix of historic landmarks and modern amenities. You can visit Griffiths Island which has the Fairy Island Lighthouse and a bird of prey habitat. In Warrnambool itself there are attractions like the Flagstaff Hill Maritime Village and Hopkins Falls to explore. Whether you like history, scenery or food the area around Tower Hill has it all.