In any season this park is a beautiful destination.  Emerald Lake is a major station for Puffing Billy and one of the best ways to escape a hot summers day.

Where:  Emerald Lake Road, Emerald VIC.  Click here for map

When:  Open daily from 9am (gates open at 8am in summer)

Cost:  FREE

Emerald Lake has lots of happy childhood memories for me – and so I love sharing this lovely parkland with my family!  What better destination if you’re having a day out on Puffing Billy – or even if you’re just having a day in the Dandenongs this makes a lovely destination.

If it’s been a little while since you’ve visited Emerald Lake you’ll notice some areas have been revamped – a new playground has been added, the paddle boat areas has a new house as well as other updates across the park.  Amenities include free BBQs, picnic tables, an onsite cafe and tea rooms, public toilets, walking tracks, playgrounds, a summer pool and the paddle boats

On a hot summers day Emerald Lake offers some cool relief – the surrounding native forest and the large trees of the established ornamental gardens provide many shady spots, there is also the swimming area and of course the paddle boats.

And in autumn you will see the leaves in glorious colours.  Emerald Lake Park is a pretty park – due largely to its views of the Lake and the European style planting around the Lake.

Emerald Lake’s biggest draw-card has to be Puffing Billy (read our review here!), and even if you’re not going for a ride it’s still great fun to hear his toot echoing through the hills and seeing him arrive at Lakeside Station.  You’re welcome to head up to the station and have an up close look from the platform, even if you’re not a passenger.