Major Mitchell passed through the area in 1836 and described it as being well covered with trees. A huge pine on the peak is one of 12 planted 70 years ago and remains as a landmark. It can be seen from at least 50km away. Things to do and see Picnicking, walking and rock climbing are popular. Walk to the peak to see different areas of the reserve.
Spring provides a colourful display of wildflowers.
Bring your own drinking water and firewood. The park is 25 km south of Ballarat. The best access is via Misery Creek road from the Colac-Ballarat Road. The park has a gold mining past where many separate goldfields occurred, including mines at Misery Creek, Staffordshire Reef and Berringa. Surface Point was the site of a Chinese settlement in the 1860s.