Dog Rocks Reserve
Dog Rocks Reserve
respects the Traditional Owners of
this land, the Wadawurrung people
Dog Rocks Reserve is a 15.75 ha reserve on the edge of Batesford, near Geelong. It was donated to Trust for Nature to be preserved and managed for its geological, cultural, historical and landscape values. The reserve gets its name from the Devonian granite boulders that resemble lying dogs.
All Trust for Nature reserves are closed on days of Total Fire Ban, and days of severe, extreme and code red fire danger.
Explore Dog Rocks Reserve
Dog Rocks contains unique granite boulders in an otherwise flat landscape. Prior to clearing the vegetation would likely have been Grassy Woodland. Remnant native grasses still occur on the site. The rocks provide habitat for the Cunningham Skink (Egernia cunninghami)
Wildlife and plants seen on the reserve include: Eastern Grey Kangaroo (Macropus giganteus), Nankeen Kestrel (Falco cenchroides), Spear Grass (Austrostipa spp), Wallaby Grass (Rytidosperma spp), Kangaroo Grass (Themeda triandra).
Cunningham Skings (Egernia cunninghami) are restricted to rocky outcrops with deep cracks. These large prickly skinks are very shy, but can be seen basking on the rocks on cool mornings’
Dog Rocks Reserve is loved for its scenic beauty and unique natural features. It’s a popular spot for photography, particularly at sunset, and star-gazing.
The intention of the reserve has always been to protect it from development and maintain it for the benefit of the local community and visitors. Low-density residential development to the north and west of the reserve was carefully planned to avoid any visual obstruction of the reserve and in particular the rocks, so that it could continue to be enjoyed by residents and visitors for years to come.
There are no amenities at this reserve.
Access strictly via carpark and pedestrian gate on Tolloora Way.
Sheep are still used as a management tool on the property so visitors must close gates and be respectful.
Please abide by any dog restrictions to ensure the safety of sheep, skinks and other reserve users.
Our reserves have hazards that may cause serious injury or death. You are responsible for your own safety and the safety of those in your care.
The reserve is closed during days declared as Total Fire Bans and/or where the fire danger rating is Severe, Extreme or Code Red.
The reserve is home to a variety of wildlife, including several species of venomous snake. During summer it is advised that long trousers and gaiters are worn when walking in the reserve.
Visitors to the reserve are requested to not cross any fence-lines, or venture onto neighbouring private property. All visitors are requested to stay on the marked walking trails.
Other hazards:
- Seasonal long grass