Feel the spray of Lawson Falls on your face. This lesser-known cascade in the Bunyip State Forest is a hidden gem surprisingly close to Melbourne. Its beauty is partially obscured by forest cover. A slight bend near the bottom makes viewing the entire falls difficult. Yet you can reach the water and feel the lower cascades’ cool spray.
Lawson Falls tumbles down Lawson Creek. It’s a relatively small waterfall approximately 10 metres long and 3-5 metres wide. There are two ways to reach it. A 2-3km walk from the Lawson Falls Picnic Ground offers a mildly challenging hike. This walk begins at the northeastern end of the picnic ground. You then follow a road until you cross the creek. The trail is initially wide and clear but becomes overgrown as you approach the falls.
For a quicker visit drive past the picnic ground. Look for a small wooden sign. It directs you to the Lawson Falls Walking Track and the Discovery Walking Track. A short walk brings you to the falls. Be warned there is no car park here. Only a few smaller cars can fit on the roadside verge. Larger vehicles may obstruct traffic. Forest Road is unsealed. It has potholes and muddy corners. A 4WD is recommended. However a 2WD with good clearance might be fine in dry weather.
Even if the falls are not your main goal the Lawson Falls Picnic Ground is a pleasant stop. It’s a flat clearing. Tall gum trees surround picnic tables and a lawn area. The creek runs along one edge.
Lawson Falls flows most strongly in winter and spring. The nearest similar catchment still trickled during past droughts. Be aware leeches have been sighted. Always check the current conditions with Parks Victoria before your visit. They manage this area. The picnic ground has a toilet picnic tables a wood fire BBQ and an untreated water tap. Remember don’t drink the tap water. There are no facilities at the falls themselves. No dogs are allowed.
Enjoy the unique experience of Lawson Falls. The weight of the surrounding gully ridges creates an enclosed space. Here you can fully appreciate the sight and sound of the cascades directly in front of you. Remember to take care on the trails. They can be slippery when wet.