Oaks and Ashes Picnic Areas - Jells Park

Welcome to Oaks and Ashes Picnic Areas at Jells Park, located in Wheelers Hill, Ferntree Gully Road, Australia. As part of the Dandenong Valley Parklands, our establishment offers a picturesque and serene environment for visitors to enjoy.

The Dandenong Valley Parklands is a network of parks running alongside Dandenong Creek in Melbourne's eastern suburbs. It is a beloved destination for both locals and tourists alike. Jells Park and Chesterfield Farm are particularly popular for day outings, while Corhanwarrabul and Bush Park Wetlands provide excellent opportunities for birdwatching.

When you visit Oaks and Ashes Picnic Areas, you'll forget that you're in the heart of Melbourne's bustling eastern suburbs. Surround yourself with good friends and family in the wide, open spaces of Jells Park, Nortons Park, and Shepherds Bush. Take a leisurely stroll, cycle, or go for a run along the tree-lined Dandenong Creek Trail. Bird lovers can set up in one of the bird hides and have a chance to spot darters, pelicans, herons, and cormorants.

The Dandenong Creek, which runs through the park, originates from springs on the western slopes of the Dandenong Ranges. It then flows through urban areas, eventually meeting up with the 49km Dandenong Creek Trail. This scenic trail is perfect for running, walking, or cycling with your furry four-legged friend.

Our wide-open spaces at Jells Park, Shepherds Bush, and Nortons Park are ideal for fun-filled days out with your family and friends, including your beloved pets. You can prepare for a picnic or barbecue, or enjoy a more civilized dining experience at Madeline's at Jells.

Children of all ages and abilities will be entertained all day long at our playgrounds in Jells Park. Our newest playspaces at Yabbie Hill and Jells Park East offer climbing, hiding, swinging, sliding, and scampering opportunities, allowing young explorers to immerse themselves in the wonders of the Dandenong Creek catchment.

As with any natural environment, there may be hazards in the rivers, lakes, and reservoirs. We advise visitors to follow our water safety advice to ensure a safe and enjoyable visit to Jells Park.

If you're looking to get closer to nature, we recommend exploring Victoria's spectacular parks and waterways with a Licensed Tour Operator. With over 400 operators available, you can choose from a variety of nature-based experiences such as hiking, mountain biking, boating, birdwatching, and more. These operators are experts who will ensure your visit is safe and unforgettable.

We strive to make our park accessible to everyone, including individuals with disabilities. At Madeline's, we have a fully accessible Changing Places facility for park visitors with high-support needs and their carers. We have also partnered with Guide Dogs Victoria to install BlindSquare, an accessible GPS app, to assist visitors who are blind or have low vision in navigating the park.

Please note that conditions in nature can change at short notice, so we recommend checking this page for any updates before your visit.

We are excited to announce that we have recently opened two new nature-based playspaces and a Changing Places toilet facility at Jells Park, thanks to a $3 million investment from the Victorian Government. Additionally, a project is underway to develop a five-kilometer shared-use trail at Jells Park, providing more opportunities for walking, running, and cycling. New lighting, signage, drinking fountains, and seating will also be installed.

Lastly, we acknowledge the cultural significance of the parks and reserves in Victoria, as they form the core of Aboriginal cultural landscapes. We recognize and respect the ongoing connection that Traditional Owners have to these landscapes and their role in caring for the Country.

Come and experience the beauty and tranquility of Oaks and Ashes Picnic Areas at Jells Park.