The Grampians National Park in Western Victoria is a treasure trove of rugged mountains, wildlife and waterfalls. With natural rock pools, deep plunge pools and pristine waterfalls scattered throughout the region, it’s the ultimate destination for water babies looking for cool swimming spots, outdoor pools and hiking adventures. Whether you’re dipping your toes in Stony Creek’s blue water, exploring the famous MacKenzie Falls, or just relaxing at Lake Fyans Holiday Park, this guide will take you through the best rock pools and swimming holes in the Grampians.
Beehive Falls, Splitters Falls, Wannon Falls, Silverband Falls, rock hopping through a series of terraced rocks. This guide also has info on walking trails, water safety, family-friendly locations and hidden gems for those who want to go off the beaten track. So grab your swimmers, sunscreen and hiking boots and let’s get into the best aquatic adventure in the Grampians.
Venus Baths and Stony Creek
Venus Baths is a family favourite in Halls Gap. Located along Stony Creek this series of natural rock pools has crystal clear blue water perfect for a hot spring day. Shallow water, smooth terraced rocks and the display of water flowing through the pools makes it a great spot for families with little ones. The cool water is great for paddling and the gentle cascades make it a peaceful spot.
The nearby walking trails offer views of greenery and wildlife and add to the serenity of the area. Venus Baths is also on a sealed road, so it’s a great day trip or picnic spot. Whether you’re there for the day or just for an aquatic adventure, Venus Baths has something for everyone.
Getting There:
Venus Baths is only a 2km return walk from the Halls Gap Caravan Park. The walking trail is well maintained and suitable for all ages.
Why Visit:
- Family-friendly shallow swimming holes
- Peaceful rock hopping experience
- Easy access via sealed roads and walking trails
MacKenzie Falls: The Grampians’ most famous waterfall
No trip to the Grampians would be complete without seeing MacKenzie Falls, one of the largest and most famous waterfalls in the region. The powerful cascade of water flows all year round and creates a stunning display and deep plunge pool at the base of the falls. Swimming is not permitted under the waterfall for safety reasons, but there are nearby rock pools where you can cool off and enjoy the cool water.
The area around MacKenzie Falls is great for a day of wandering, with multiple walking trails and lookouts over the national park. You can also picnic by the falls, gaze at the natural beauty and hike to other nearby waterfalls, including Fish Falls and Clematis Falls.
Getting There:
MacKenzie Falls is off the Halls Gap township. The walk to the bottom of the falls is steep so be prepared for a bit of a workout.
Why Visit:
- Famous waterfall views
- Nearby rock pools to dip your feet
- Hiking and viewing platforms with panoramic views
Beehive Falls: A Hidden Gem for Quiet Rock Pools
Beehive Falls is a lesser known but just as beautiful spot in the Grampians. This seasonal waterfall cascades into a series of small rock pools, a peaceful and secluded swimming spot. The walk to Beehive Falls is scenic, winds through wildflowers in the warmer months and has panoramic views of the national park. The rock pools at the bottom of the falls are perfect for a cool off after the walk.
Beehive Falls is a quiet retreat for those who want to get away from it all. The cool water and green surroundings make it perfect for photographers, hikers and those who want to escape the crowds at the other swimming holes.
Getting There:
Beehive Falls carpark, and it’s a 2.8km return walk to the falls.
Why Visit:
- Quiet rock pools
- Surrounded by greenery and terraced rocks
- Photography and nature lovers
- Splitters Falls: Seasonal Waterfall and Rock Pools
Near the Wonderland Carpark, Splitters Falls is a waterfall with natural rock pools to swim or just to dip your toes in cool water. Although Splitters Falls is a seasonal waterfall, the rock pools are still a great spot to swim in the warmer months. The walk to the falls is surrounded by wildlife and terraced rocks so the walk is almost as good as the destination.
If you want a quiet spot, Splitters Falls is the place. After a day of rock hopping and swimming in the freshwater, you can relax in the nearby picnic areas or walk the surrounding trails.
Getting There:
Splitters Falls is a 30-minute walk from Wonderland Carpark.
Why Visit:
- Peaceful rock pools
- Quiet spot for swimming and hiking
- Panoramic views and greenery
Zumsteins Picnic Area: Family Friendly with Rock Pools
Zumsteins Picnic Area is another spot to visit in the Grampians. Picnic facilities, barbecue areas and natural rock pools along the MacKenzie River. The rock pools are perfect for families, calm water and waterfalls nearby. It’s on a sealed road so it’s a popular day trip.
The walking trails surrounding Zumsteins offer more of the Grampians natural beauty, including access to Fish Falls, Clematis Falls and Lake Bellfield. Zumsteins is a great spot for families to spend the day, swimming, hiking and fishing.
Getting There:
Zumsteins is on the Ararat-Halls Gap Road and is car accessible. The walking trails are well-maintained and suitable for all ages.
Why Visit:
- Family-friendly swimming holes
- Picnic and barbecue facilities
- Scenic spot surrounded by waterfalls and walking trails
Nigretta Falls: A swimming spot for the pure of heart
Nigretta Falls near Hamilton is a beautiful waterfall that flows into deep pools that are perfect for swimming. Famous for the waterfall views, Nigretta Falls is a water enthusiasts playground for those who love swimming and rock hopping. The falls are at their best after rain, when the water is a powerful cascade.
The area also has picnic facilities, so it’s a great spot to spend the day. Nigretta Falls is on the Western Victoria Water Safety Map List of Lists, so it’s popular with locals and tourists alike.
Getting There:
Nigretta Falls is via a sealed road from the nearby town of Hamilton with parking at the visitor car park.
Why Visit:
- Deep pools for swimming
- Waterfalls and rock formations
- Family-friendly, with picnic facilities nearby
Silverband Falls: A secluded spot in the Grampians
Silverband Falls is a beautiful and peaceful waterfall in the Grampians National Park. The water flow is seasonal but Silverband Falls is a quiet spot with smaller rock pools scattered throughout. A great spot to get away from the crowds and spend a day in nature.
The walking trails surrounding Silverband Falls offer more of the Grampians natural beauty, views and wildlife. Whether you visit in summer or during a dry spell Silverband Falls is a pristine spot.
Getting There:
Silverband Falls is a short walk from the Silverband Falls Carpark on a sealed road.
Why Visit:
- Secluded spot
- Scenic surrounded by greenery
- A day of peace and photography
Lake Fyans and Lake Bellfield: Water-based activities
For more water based activities Lake Fyans and Lake Bellfield are nearby the Grampians. These lakes offer fishing, swimming and water skiing. Lake Fyans Holiday Park is a great spot for families with sandy beaches, picnic areas and camping grounds.
Both lakes have panoramic views of the surrounding mountains and offer a range of aquatic activities so a great spot to stay a few extra days in the Grampians.
Getting There:
Both Lake Fyans and Lake Bellfield are only a short drive from Halls Gap.
Why Visit:
- Water skiing, fishing and swimming
- Scenic views of the surrounding national parks
- Family-friendly with facilities nearby
Conclusion
From MacKenzie Falls to the hidden pools of Beehive Falls and Splitters Falls the Grampians is a water lovers heaven. Deep plunge pools, seasonal waterfalls and scenic walks, there’s no shortage of natural wonders to discover. Whether you’re planning a family day trip, an aquatic adventure or a relaxing weekend the Grampians National Park has something for all ages.
Get your gear and get ready to explore some of Western Victoria’s most beautiful waterfalls, swimming holes and natural rock pools or book a Grampians tour for a safe and entertaining journey with an experienced guide.
FAQ
Can I swim in the natural rock pools at MacKenzie Falls?
No, swimming directly under MacKenzie Falls is not permitted due to strong currents, but there are nearby rock pools where you can enjoy the cool water.
What’s the best time to visit the Grampians rock pools?
The warmer months (late spring to early autumn) are the best time to visit rock pools as the water levels are usually higher, and the weather is perfect for swimming.
Are there family-friendly swimming spots in the Grampians?
Yes, Venus Baths, Zumsteins Picnic Area and Lake Fyans have family friendly swimming holes with shallow water and facilities nearby.
What else can I do in the Grampians besides swimming?
The Grampians is famous for its walking trails, views, fishing spots and Australian wildlife. You can also enjoy water activities at the lakes and waterfalls.
Can I visit the rock pools and waterfalls in summer?
Yes, summer is the best time to visit the Grampians rock pools and waterfalls as the warmer weather makes swimming at Venus Baths and Lake Fyans perfect. Just be aware of reduced water flow in some seasonal waterfalls, and always swim safely in deeper pools.
