The cemetery comprises 20 acres [8 ha] and is divided into denominational and non-Christian areas, with clusters of graves distributed within an unusual heart shaped configuration. Some of the graves have been delineated by elaborate wrought or cast iron fences, while others such as the gravestones within the Chinese section remain open. The most elaborate cast iron fence is around the Martin Family grave.
A central pathway runs from the entrance through the heart to the east of the allotment. A small corrugated iron maintenance hut with a pitched corrugated iron roof is located directly to the south of the entrance gate off the Glenelg Highway.
Access to the cemetery is gained through a tree lined drive which forms an avenue of Ulmus procera which are approximately 30-50 years old. Surviving plantings within the cemetery include Quercus petraea (Sessile Oak), Cedrus deodara f. glauca (Blue Atlas Cedar), Ulmus procera (English Elm), Pinus radiata (Monterey Pine) and a further mixture of individual Oaks, Cyprus and Pines. A row of Pinus radiata (Monterey Pine) exists on the western boundary.
A self-guided interpretation program of twelve signs installed during 2006 by the Smythesdale Cemetery Trust are located at various points throughout the site. These signs provide an historical background of the individuals and families buried throughout the cemetery. Bulbs flower annually in the area where the sexton's cottage once stood.
Several avenues of new Quercus palustrus have been planted. Some indigenous vegetation including various Eucalyptus and Themeda triandra survive on the site. The traditional planting scheme appears to continue outside the cemetery in the roadside verge.