The discovery of gold in July 1851 lured tens of thousands of migrants to the Castlemaine area. Between 1851 and 1854 it was the world's richest shallow alluvial goldfield. By 1852, the population on the Castlemaine Diggings was 40-60,000.

Today, the Castlemaine Diggings harbours fascinating tales of the area's golden past. Much of the gold-rush character has been retained. From the remains of house sites and puddling machines, to the gold mines and gullies that yielded fortunes. Less visible, but no less dramatic, is the impact the gold rush had on Djaara people.

Castlemaine Diggings National Heritage Park is popular for a variety of activities. Enjoy bushwalking, scenic drives, cycling, picnics, exploring the mining relics and gold prospecting.

Take in the many historic sites at the park by taking a scenic drive. Along the way you'll see an ever-changing landscape of rolling hills and forests, gullies eroded by sluice mining and picturesque rural communities.

There's plenty of enjoyable trails in the park. Take a gentle stroll along the Loddon River. Take in the park's mining history on a heritage walk. Or for the adventurous, The Goldfields Track will appeal to hikers and mountain-bikers alike.

At Vaughan Mineral Springs you'll find everything you need for a family picnic. There's a shelter, free electric barbecues and large open grassy areas. Picnic tables can also be found at numerous other locations in the park.

Another popular picnic spot is Kalimna Point. Located on a prominent ridgeline east of Castlemaine, here you'll find picnic table and a rotunda. Take a walk among the Box-Ironbark forest, which provides diverse habitat for native species

Many species of birds can be seen around the diggings. From resident species to migratory species that follow the blossoms through Victoria's Box Ironbark woodlands. Good spots for birdwatching include Eureka Reef, along the Loddon River at Vaughan Springs, Central Spring and Glenluce Spring.