One hour from Melbourne
Scenic Werribee Gorge location
30+ activities
Sleeps 40 to 170 guests
Why choose Lake Dewar Discovery Camp?
Lake Dewar Discovery Camp is your gateway to the great outdoors. Open year-round, we welcome schools, community groups and organisations looking for an unforgettable camp experience.
Paddleboard or canoe on our beautiful lake, hike through the scenic Werribee Gorge, or learn new skills like archery and campfire cooking. There's something for everyone!
Our accommodation and activities are also accessible. This means all participants, regardless of ability, can fully engage and enjoy their time at camp.
Plus, Lake Dewar can be hired for retreats, planning days and events.
Who Lake Dewar Discovery Camp caters to
Schools
We can tailor our camp program to your school's needs and educational goals, with activities to suit students of all ages and interests.
Community groups
We can host group adventure holidays, retreats, events and more for youth groups, disability groups, sports clubs, church groups and other organisations.
Families
We welcome large family groups of 40+ guests. Whether you're planning a big event or just want to get everyone together, Lake Dewar is the perfect spot.
Choose from more than 30 activities
Our programs and activities help campers reconnect with nature, challenge themselves, and create lasting memories.
Choose from activities like:
- Adventure tunnelling
- Bushwalking
- Canoeing
- Flying fox
- Mountain biking
- Paddle boarding
- Werribee River Gorge Walk
We want every group to have an amazing experience, so we can tailor activities to your needs. Check out our full range of activities to learn more.
Accommodation
We offer a variety of accommodation options for groups of 40 to 170 guests.
Our lakeview apartments and conference centre accommodation buildings are perfect for larger groups, while The Lodge offers a cosy home base for smaller ones. Rooms come in a range of sizes, mostly bunk-bed style, and many include ensuites.
Between activities, your group can relax and reconnect in our recreation and breakout areas.
Want to bring your group even closer to nature? Choose to camp in tents beneath the stars for an unforgettable outdoor adventure.
We also offer wheelchair accessible rooms and bathrooms so that everyone can enjoy their stay.
Meet Bryce – Manager at Lake Dewar
When he’s not at camp, Bryce is all about the great outdoors. His favorite pastime is sharing his love for nature with his family, especially his two young daughters, and creating unforgettable adventures together.
Meet our staff members
Julien - Program Coordinator
Meg - Trainee
Ella - Trainee
What campers say about Lake Dewar Discovery Camp
"Y Discovery Camp helped me feel happy because of all the activities and spending time with my friends. During camp, I was able to try new activities, and I really enjoyed getting to know new people."
– Student, Heathdale Christin College, at Lake Dewar
Get ready for camp with our packing list, camp tips, and information about what to expect.
FAQs
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Who is Lake Dewar Discovery Camp for?
Lake Dewar Discover Camp welcomes schools, community groups, families and organisations looking for an outdoor camp experience. -
Where is Lake Dewar Discovery Camp located?
Lake Dewar Discovery Camp is located near the scenic Werribee Gorge, within an hour from Melbourne. -
What is your address?
Lake Dewar Discovery Camp, 339 Garrards Lane, Myrniong VIC 3341. -
Is Lake Dewar Discovery Camp open year-round?
Yes, we're open all year-round, so you can enjoy outdoor adventures no matter the season.
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What activities do you offer?
We offer a wide variety of activities at Lake Dewar Discovery Camp. Whether you're on foot, wheels or water, our activities are designed to build leadership, confidence and teamwork while being immersed in nature. View our full list of activities. -
Do you offer water-based activities?
Yes. Our water-based activities include stand-up paddleboarding, canoeing, kayaking and raft-building just to name a few. -
Do campers need paddling experience?
No, you do not need any experience for paddleboarding at Lake Dewar. Our highly trained staff provide skilled tuition and support. You'll also be wearing appropriate PPE (personal protective equipment) such as a life jacket and helmet. -
Do campers need to be able to swim?
A basic level of swimming is required for water-based activities at camp. You will also need to wear PPE (personal protective equipment) such as a life jacket and helmet. -
Is Lake Dewar Discovery Camp accessible?
Yes, our accommodation and activities are accessible, helping participants of all abilities engage and enjoy their time at camp.
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What accommodation is available?
Our accommodation options sleep between 40 and 170 guests, with a variety of room sizes available to suit different groups. You can stay in our lakeview apartments, conference centre rooms, lodge, or camping in tents. Learn more about our accommodation. -
Do you cater for allergies or special dietary needs?
Yes, tell us about any allergies, intolerances or cultural dietary needs when booking and our kitchen will prepare accordingly. -
What's the minimum group size for a booking at Lake Dewar?
We can cater to groups from 40 to 170 people. Some terms may have a minimum hire of 120 people. -
Can you host retreats or events?
Yes, Lake Dewar Discovery Camp has a variety of venue hire options available, making it suitable for retreats, planning days, and family and corporate events. Submit an enquiry to find out more and see how we can support your event. -
What facilities are available at Lake Dewar Discovery Camp?
Our facilities include:
- Dining hall/conference centre
- Meeting rooms
- Lake
- Jetty
- Water sports area
- Day visit area
- Oval
- Overnight camping space
View our full list of facilities.
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Are your staff qualified and Working with Children Check verified?
Yes, all facilitators are trained and hold current Working with Children Checks. -
What's your cancellation or wet-weather policy?
Camp will go ahead even if it rains. Just make sure you bring suitable clothing, and we'll roll through! If the weather is dangerous (extreme wind, storms or lightening, for example), then we will follow the appropriate guidelines. - How much does camp cost?
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How can I contact Lake Dewar Discovery Camp?
Customers can contact Lake Dewar Discovery Camp on (03) 5368 7459 or via email at lakedewar@ymca.org.au
Start your adventure at Lake Dewar Discovery Camp
Immerse yourself in nature, connect with others and make amazing memories with your school, family, or community group. Enquire today to get started.