Valley Lake, located in Mount Gambier, is a forest-ringed crater lake that offers a variety of activities for families and outdoor enthusiasts. This off-the-beaten-path destination features play areas, family walks, water sports, picnic tables, and BBQ facilities. Visitors can also explore the wildlife park on the western lakeshore to spot kangaroos, wallabies, emus, koalas, and wombats.
Why you should go
1
Enjoy a leisurely picnic by the lake surrounded by greenery
2
Explore the bush trails uphill to catch scenic views of Valley Lake
3
Experience serenity at Valley Lake Conservation Park near the lake
It’s a beautiful lake. Perfect for a summer day. There are lots of benches there where you can sit down and enjoy the view of the lake or you can picnic on the grass. The conservation park being so close to the lake is an added bonus. This place is easily one of my favourite places from my Mount Gambier Itinerary.
This is a wonderful place to spend time with family, friends, and children. There's a large playground near the lake; if you're visiting Mount Gambier, you shouldn't miss it. It closes at 9 PM and opens at 7 AM. The playground closes at 7 PM.
Tranquil setting with playground and wide open grassy areas. Si on one of the park benches and enjoy the amazing scenery.
It’s a beautiful lake. Perfect for a summer day. There are lots of benches there where you can sit down and enjoy the view of the lake or you can picnic on the grass. The conservation park being so close to the lake is an added bonus. This place is easily one of my favourite places from my Mount Gambier Itinerary.
This is a wonderful place to spend time with family, friends, and children. There's a large playground near the lake; if you're visiting Mount Gambier, you shouldn't miss it. It closes at 9 PM and opens at 7 AM. The playground closes at 7 PM.
Tranquil setting with playground and wide open grassy areas. Si on one of the park benches and enjoy the amazing scenery.
Visit on weekdays mornings for a quieter experience in nature
Wear shoes with good grip as some parts of trails may be challenging
Bring your family or friends to enjoy picnics or explore the large playground area
Check opening hours as gates close at 6 PM; no entry fee required
Reviews
Valley Lake in Mount Gambier is a beautiful spot for picnics and leisurely walks. Visitors enjoy the green surroundings, benches overlooking the lake, and nearby Valley Lake Conservation Park. The area offers a serene escape with opportunities for waterskiing and bush trail walks. Families appreciate the well-kept recreation facilities, large playground, and peaceful atmosphere away from crowds.
It’s a beautiful lake. Perfect for a summer day. There are lots of benches there where you can sit down and enjoy the view of the lake or you can picnic on the grass. The conservation park being so close to the lake is an added bonus. This place is easily one of my favourite places from my Mount Gambier Itinerary.
This is a wonderful place to spend time with family, friends, and children. There's a large playground near the lake; if you're visiting Mount Gambier, you shouldn't miss it. It closes at 9 PM and opens at 7 AM. The playground closes at 7 PM.
Valley Lake took my breath away the moment I arrived. The still water sitting inside the crater, surrounded by trees, birdsong, and fresh country air, feels like a hidden sanctuary. Walking the trails and stopping at the lookouts gave me a sense of calm I didn’t expect, it’s the kind of place where time slows down.
Families were enjoying picnics, kids laughing in the playground, and kangaroos resting quietly in the wildlife park, it all added to the magic of the place. With easy parking and plenty of space to relax, it’s a spot that truly stays with you long after you leave.
Exploring the crater requires some effort, as the trails feature steep climbs and can be quite challenging—especially when the weather turns windy and rainy. While the water's hue isn't as striking as Blue Lake's, the surrounding views and path scenery are beautiful and well worth the walk. If you're not a regular hiker, take your time on the inclines, but don't be discouraged—they are certainly achievable.