In 1841 the area was considered a “settled district” within Port Phillip, and all suitable land for agriculture west of the Plenty River was sold off by the government for private ownership by the mid-1840s.

In the 1980s the Victorian State Government recognised need to protect the natural and heritage features of the park for future generations.

The hills and ridges of the eastern side of the park were formed between 400 and 430 million years ago during the Silurian period.

The Plenty River flows around 24 kilometres (15 mi) through the park and has carved through softer sedimentary rocks to form a steep gorge.

Major landscapes in the park include the Plenty River and gorge, woodlands, wetlands, parklands and pastures.

[1] The park includes the Hawkstowe and Yarrambat picnic areas, Middle Gorge, Nioka Bush Camp and the Yellow Gum Recreation Area and is used by local communities for recreational activities such as community events, festivals, large gatherings, nature-based activities, exercise and orienteering.