The Steppes State Reserve

The Steppes State Reserve, located near Bothwell in Tasmania's Central Highlands, is a historic site that preserves an important piece of Tasmania's sheep-grazing heritage. Established in 1863, the Wilson family settled here, and over the years, the site served various roles, including a police station, church, weather observation post, summer school, post office, and lodging for travelers visiting the lakes district. In 1929, the Wilson family proposed The Steppes as a bird sanctuary, which was gazetted in 1930, recognizing its significance as a habitat for diverse birdlife. Today, the reserve is maintained by the Tasmania Parks and Wildlife Service, offering visitors a glimpse into Tasmania's pastoral history and its rich avian biodiversity. The Steppes is accessible via the Lake Highway (A5), approximately 35 kilometers northwest of Bothwell, about a 2-hour drive from Hobart and 1.5 hours from Launceston. While the interior of the homestead and some outbuildings are locked and can only be viewed on open days, the site is open to visitors at any time. There are no formal picnic facilities, but in fine weather, the site is a pleasant location for bush picnics. Visitors are encouraged to check the Tasmania Parks and Wildlife Service website for the latest information before planning their visit.