Take a trip back in time
An ancient tributary of the Glenelg River once flowed through the native grasslands of the Dry Creek Native Forest Reserve. Now dry, the creek bed can be explored via two marked trails.
The trails begin at either end of the Dry Creek car park and picnic area and are clearly marked with arrows and map plates. They are suitable for all ages and are marked with a variety of points of interest along the way, making Dry Creek the perfect spot for a family day out.
The area is teeming with wildlife. Keep a look out for swamp wallabies, kangaroos, wombats and the elusive bristle-bird along the journey.
Local heritage
The Dry Creek Native Forest Reserve is home to several sites of cultural significance.
The nearby Glenelg River and the rich local food supply supported a relatively intensive occupation of the Boandik people, the traditional owners of the area. Early settlers once reported seeing 400 Boandik people camped near the area.
The historic horse-drawn coach route, which once linked Mount Gambier and Port MacDonnell with Portland via McLennan’s Punt, is still recognisable by ruts worn into the limestone by iron wagon wheels. This can be seen on the Wagon Trail Loop.
How to get there
The Dry Creek Native Forest Reserve and trails can be accessed via the Princes Margaret Rose Caves Road and Dry Creek Road, about 25 minutes drive from Mount Gambier.
The forest is closed to the public on declared Total Fire Ban days. To report a fire, call 000.
For fire ban information phone 1800 362 361 or visit the CFS website. Being aware of a Total Fire Ban is your responsibility.
Fire is prohibited on ForestrySA land and Forest Reserves between November 1 and April 30 in any year. (These dates may be extended in areas where high fire danger persists).
