Blue Pool is a popular spot with locals on hot summer days. This deep swimming hole sits in a basalt gorge along Freestone Creek, 20 kilometres north of Maffra. There’s a rope swing suspended over the water and multiple spots for camping and picnicking in the Briagolong State Forest. You can do the walking trails (which range from five minutes to three days in duration) through bush that varies from moist rainforest to dry native scrub. The park is on the land of the Braiakaulung clan of the Gunaikurnai peoples; grinding grooves (from sharpening tools) and scar trees (from the removal of bark to make canoes) are still visible today.