Situated close to the popular
Valley Lake park and playground, Browns Lake is a little misleading. After all, if you turn up you're not likely to find much of a lake. The dried up bed of Browns Lake has instead become a peaceful picnic spot, away from the loud excitement of the Valley Lake, instead in its own little oasis.
Browns Lake is one of the four craters formed from the Mount Gambier volcano, and while once it did contain a lake, it dried up in the 1980s. In place of the lake is lush grass, and tall trees, which make this a great place to just sit and relax. You'll easily be able to find a spot on the grass to set up a picnic rug, or you can sit at a picnic table to lay out your spread. It is a shady area, so even on a hot day you can enjoy a bit of a cool breeze under the trees.
If you do bring the kids along, they'll still be able to have fun. There is plenty of grass for them to run around on, and it is a good space for a game of footy or soccer. There is also a small hill, that would be perfect for running up, and then rolling down. If the kids were looking for something else to do, then the Valley Lake is only a short drive around, and here you'll find an extensive playground complex.
When you do choose to stay at Browns Lake you'll get to really soak up the serenity of the place. All you'll hear is the local wildlife, and the sound of the wind rustling through the trees. There are no toilet or barbecue facilities. So this is best suited for those quiet days rather than big family gatherings.
There is a carpark nearby for if you need to park. If you are visiting Browns Lake, beware that there are time restrictions. The road that leads to both Valley Lake and Browns Lake is closed after 8pm, so you won't be able to plan a moonlight picnic, but during the day you can visit anytime.
Browns Lake is joined by the three
Mount Gambier Crater Lakes, comprising of The Blue Lake, The Valley Lake, and the Leg of Mutton Lake.