Ship Falls Picnic Ground Kurth-Kiln
If you are looking to get closer to nature for the day, Ship rock Falls and the Kurth Kiln Picnic ground is the perfect spot to visit. With walking trails, and a waterfall to check out, there is plenty of things to do around.
Kurth Kiln
Kurth kiln is certainly worth a visit if you are looking at getting the troops off the screens and into nature.
The trails are well marked and beautiful. Plenty of parking, toilet facilities and BBQs are available, it is worth the day trip, make sure you bring plenty of snacks and fresh water and wear good walking shoes as the ground can be uneven at places.
There is a shelter with information boards and maps in this area.
In the kiln area there is a car park with three unshaded tables and drop toilets
History of Kurth Kiln
The site was established in 1941 as a place to produce charcoal as a substitute for fuel. This is due to the rationing for motorists during WW2 so therefore Kurth created this kiln.
Although the kiln was not in operation for very long, it remains on the site and is an interesting read for those who are interested in technology and our history, did you know that is the only kiln of its kind in the country?
You can walk around the four old caretakers homes as well, before hitting the trails.
Walking Tracks
There are a dozen different walking and horse riding trails in the area, as well as camping zones if you are looking to stay a little while.
Keep an eye out for the local birds and wildlife – we had a lot of fun finding cicada shells which are all over the area!
One of those walking tracks is the Tomahawk Creek Track with its rustic bridge crossing the creek.
Another track along the Tomahawk Creek is the Thornton Track winding past the remnants of the old Carstein Mill, with six Interpretation Panels highlighting points of the waterway, the flora and fauna.
Ship Rock Falls
Shiprock Falls is a small but noisy cascade running over large boulders that is definitely worth a visit.
There are two little gems to discover here :
- The waterfall
- Ship Rocks to explore
When you get to this section of the Kurth Kiln Region you will be pleased. It’s a 170 meter walk to the falls, which is quick, but you may find yourself staying a little longer whilst exploring the giant boulders known as Ship Rock.
The falls itself have a viewing platform where you can see them from a short distance and is a refreshing place to be on a hot day as the whole area is well sheltered and covered in ferns which is a beautiful site to see.
The boulders located on the walk down to the falls can be just (if not) more entertaining.
Children will love to climb and explore the rocks, The rock is around 5-10 metres high, depending on which side you view it from, with a cave running through it.
The cave is really more of a rock shelter that runs for a few metres from one side of the rock to the other. It is not fully enclosed, with plenty of light coming in from both ends, and is quite fun to quickly explore.
Someone has also strategically placed some logs and chains so those who are brave enough can scale the rock, personally I do not recommend this unless you are a rock climber or wearing safety gear and obviously have no fear of heights.
Camping/ Horse Riding
There are a variety of spots for the family to set up camp if you wish to extend your trip to beyond a day visit.
You are encouraged to bring your own firewood and obviously be vigilant with the weather and bush fore warnings.
In fact, there are over 36 camping sites scattered around the area with a communal camping area located at Heritage Fence Camping Area.
The day we explored it was busy at most of the camping sites spot make sure you check it out early if you do plan to stay.
You can unload your horse at the Scout Loop camping area, there are a few tracks you can take your horse including a small horse corral.
This really is an area with such diverse plant life, which means that there is a variety of wildlife to be spotted.
Keep your eyes peeled for the many small and very active birds, the elusive swamp wallabies, inquisitive lace monitors, prickly echidnas during the day or the smaller skinks.
At night you might hear or see koalas, yellow-bellied gliders, sugar gliders, greater gliders and large forest owls.
Depending on how much you like to walk, if not jump back in the car, 2 minutes later you are at a lovely waterfall, Ship Rock Falls, which is only 170 meters away from the car park – not too bad to see some beautiful water.
Tip for Families
- The path is narrow and uneven in places and can get quite slippery after wet weather, but the overall quality of the path is very good and well maintained.
- Toilets available
- Fire pits for BBQ available
- Take your own rubbish with you
- Make sure you have insect repellent and sunscreen for the hot days
- Pack water bottles
- Not pram friendly
- Wear good walking shoes- uneven ground
- Bring plenty of fresh water and snacks
- Dog friendly, must stay on a lead
Details:
Address:
Kurth Kiln Picnic Ground
Soldiers Road, just off the Kurth Kiln Track
*Contributor: Laura Tyres
Waterfalls in Victoria
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