Ocean Grove Nature Reserve

Ocean Grove Nature Reserve is a protected area on the Bellarine Peninsula covering 143 hectares of woodland, wetlands, and heathland. It preserves the largest remaining example of native bushland away from the coast in this region.

The reserve began in the 1960s when a naturalist group formed a committee to protect uncleared bushland from development. It was officially established in 1971.

The reserve sits on Country belonging to the Wadawurrung People, whose ongoing relationship with this land shapes how the reserve is cared for today. You can sense this connection as you walk through the different areas and see how the land is managed.

Two car parks give access to walking trails, with some paths suitable for wheelchairs leading to bird watching spots. Picnic tables and grills are spread throughout the grounds and work well for a half-day visit.

The reserve protects the Bellarine Yellow Gum, a rare eucalyptus that flowers during winter between April and May. Most visitors miss this tree, yet its blooms stand out sharply during those months.