Discover the Natural Beauty of Devilbend Natural Features Reserve

A Local Treasure in the Heart of the Peninsula

Nestled between Moorooduc and Tuerong, Devilbend Natural Features Reserve is one of the Mornington Peninsula’s best-kept secrets. Whether you're looking for a peaceful walk, a birdwatching adventure, or a family picnic spot, Devilbend delivers with open space, native bushland, and a sense of calm that's hard to find elsewhere.

Just a short drive from Mornington, Devilbend Reservoir is the largest inland body of water on the Peninsula. It provides habitat for rare and threatened species and offers a welcome retreat from the usual beach traffic.

What Makes Devilbend Special?

Devilbend Natural Features Reserve spans over 1,000 hectares, featuring a mix of bushland, open grassland, and wetland ecosystems. At its core is the Devilbend Reservoir—a non-potable water storage facility no longer used for drinking water but now a haven for nature lovers.

Parks Victoria manages the reserve, focusing on conservation and providing low-impact recreation opportunities.

Key Highlights:

• Walking and cycling trails

• Fishing and kayaking zones

• Birdwatching and photography hotspots

• Family-friendly picnic areas

• Diverse flora and fauna

Things to Do at Devilbend Natural Features Reserve

1. Walking and Cycling Trails

Devilbend is home to a network of well-maintained trails suitable for all fitness levels. One of the most popular is the Devilbend Circuit Track, a 6km loop that takes in views of the reservoir and passes through native bushland filled with the sounds of kookaburras and cockatoos.

Other notable tracks include:

• Tuerong Track: Perfect for a short stroll or casual bike ride.

• Western Shoreline Track: Great for scenic reservoir views and a relaxing walk.

Whether you're walking solo, with your dog (on leash), or pushing a pram, these trails offer a simple yet rewarding way to experience nature.

2. Birdwatching Paradise

Devilbend is a hotspot for birdwatchers. It’s one of the few places on the Peninsula where you can spot the Blue-billed Duck, a species listed as threatened in Victoria. The wetland environment also supports:

• Australasian grebes

• Swamp harriers

• Yellow-tailed black cockatoos

• Whistling kites

For best results, bring binoculars and visit early in the morning or late afternoon. Keep an eye out near the bird hide, located close to the water’s edge.

3. Fishing and Kayaking

The northern section of the reservoir is open to shore-based fishing and non-motorised watercraft like kayaks. The area is stocked with rainbow trout and estuary perch, making it ideal for casual anglers and families wanting to try fishing in a peaceful setting.

Remember to check Victorian fishing regulations and bring your license if required.

4. Family-Friendly Picnic Areas

There are dedicated picnic areas near the main car park, equipped with picnic tables, open spaces, and toilet facilities. It’s a great place to bring the kids, stretch out with a blanket, and enjoy some fresh air. You’ll often see families kicking a footy or enjoying a relaxed lunch while overlooking the water.

Flora and Fauna of Devilbend

The reserve is a thriving ecosystem supporting more than 200 indigenous plant species and a wide variety of native animals.

Native Plants

• Coastal Manna Gum

• Swamp Paperbark

• Common Heath (Victoria’s floral emblem)

• Silver Banksia

Wildlife

• Echidnas

• Eastern grey kangaroos

• Brushtail possums

• Frogs and skinks

• Over 100 species of birds

Parks Victoria and local conservation groups are actively working to maintain biodiversity and restore degraded areas. It's a great example of how we can enjoy the land while still protecting it.

Accessibility and Facilities

Devilbend is designed with simplicity in mind. Facilities are basic, but well-maintained.

Facilities include:

• Car parking

• Walking and cycling tracks

• Toilets

• Picnic tables

• Informational signage

• Bird hide

There is no café or kiosk onsite, so it’s best to bring your own food and water. It’s also a good idea to pack insect repellent and wear appropriate shoes.

How to Get There

Devilbend Natural Features Reserve is easy to access from many parts of the Mornington Peninsula.

Address:
Graydens Road, Tuerong VIC 3915

Distance from Mornington:
Approx. 15 minutes’ drive

Parking:
Ample parking is available near the main entrance on Graydens Road.

Public Transport:
Limited—driving is recommended.

Tips for Your Visit

• Dogs are allowed but must be kept on a lead at all times.

• No swimming or diving is permitted in the reservoir.

• Stick to designated tracks to protect native plants and prevent erosion.

• Take all rubbish with you—there are no bins provided.

• Be mindful of native wildlife and avoid disturbing animals.

Community and Conservation

Devilbend isn’t just a great place for visitors—it’s also a hub for environmental education and community care. Local schools and volunteer groups often participate in revegetation projects, weed removal, and wildlife monitoring.

Groups like Friends of Devilbend help maintain walking tracks and promote awareness of the area’s ecological value.

If you're looking for a meaningful way to contribute, there are opportunities to get involved in local conservation days.

Events and Activities

While Devilbend itself is a peaceful and quiet reserve, nearby Mornington and Mount Martha regularly host nature-based events, family-friendly markets, and local festivals.

Keep an eye out for:

• Guided birdwatching tours

• School holiday nature walks

• Photography workshops

• Environmental volunteer days

You can find up-to-date event listings through Parks Victoria or Mornington Peninsula Shire’s website.

Why We Love It

At McNeill Real Estate, we love promoting hidden gems like Devilbend Natural Features Reserve. It’s the kind of place that reflects what living on the Mornington Peninsula is all about—peace, space, and a deep connection to nature.

Whether you're a local looking for a quiet weekend spot or a visitor wanting something off the usual tourist track, Devilbend offers a genuine experience that’s easy to access and hard to forget.

Real Estate and Lifestyle Nearby

Properties near Devilbend enjoy the best of both worlds—quiet bushland surroundings and easy access to shops, schools, and the Peninsula Link.

Suburbs like Moorooduc, Tuerong, and Mount Martha offer:

• Larger lifestyle blocks

• Hobby farms and rural retreats

• Proximity to wineries and golf courses

• Access to excellent primary and secondary schools

If you’re thinking about a move to the Mornington Peninsula or want to know more about the local lifestyle, we’re always happy to have a chat.

Final Thoughts

Devilbend Natural Features Reserve is one of the Mornington Peninsula’s most underrated attractions. It’s peaceful, rich with biodiversity, and ideal for low-key outdoor activities. Whether you go for a walk, cast a line, or just sit and take in the view, you’ll leave feeling a little lighter.

So next time you’re looking to escape the busier tourist spots, pack a picnic, lace up your walking shoes, and spend a few hours at Devilbend.

Looking to buy or rent near Devilbend?
At McNeill Real Estate, we’re locals too. We understand the lifestyle and know the area inside out. If you’d like help finding a home that offers space, peace, and natural beauty, reach out—we’d love to help.