Vol 4 Gold Fields

Contents
4.1 Golden Triangle ........................................................................................................................................................ 3

4.2(a) Bendigo (north) .................................................................................................................................................. 11
4.2(b) Bendigo (south) .................................................................................................................................................. 20
4.2 Pyrenees ................................................................................................................................................................. 32
4.3.1 Mt Cole State Forest ....................................................................................................................................... 39
4.3 Ballarat ................................................................................................................................................................... 45
4.1 Golden Triangle
Ref Site Sub Site Rating

1 Wedderburn Skinners Flat Reservoir Park 3.9
2 Mt Korong Scenic Reserve 4.1
3 Ryan Cr
4 Kooyoora State Park Melville Caves 3.2
5 Logan Pub 2.9
6 Water Point
7 Kara-Kara State Park Teddington 4.1
8 Spring Valley 3.0
9 Tarnagulla Historic Reserve 3.8
10 Loddon State Forest Waanyarra 3.9
11 Paddys Range State Park Karri Track 4.0
12 Talbot State Forest Stony Creek 3.6
1. Wedderburn : Skinners Flat Reservoir Park
Type Reserve Picnic Ground  
Situated by an old reservoir north of Wedderburn.
Access from Wedderburn: North 5.6k on the Calder Hwy [A79], right (north) 1k on the twisty, narrow Mt Kerang
Rd (gravel).
Privacy Good: Well off main roads
VicRoads 29 B7
Hema 41 K9
Access Conventional
Size 5+ Height 220
Suit: 
Facilities: 
Boundary Not
controlled
Firewood Available
Bookings No: pot luck
Activities
CFA District N. West
Visit 12/11/01
Ref 191
Site description
Four quiet picnic areas dispersed along the shore of the reservoir with thin shade from Yellow Gum and Red
Box over gravel. Most sites slope a little. Backed by a very large flora reserve - ironbark forest wildflowers in
spring. Reservoir may not be full.
Warnings Narrow, twisty access road probably not suitable for large rigs
2. Mt Korong Scenic Reserve

Type Reserve Picnic Ground  
Situated below Mount Korong, between Wedderburn and Inglewood.
VicRoads 29 D9
Hema 41 K10
Access Sealed Road
Size 3+ Height 200
Suit: 
Facilities: 
Boundary Not controlled
Firewood Available
Activities:
Visit 20/11/01
Ref 792
Access from Wedderburn: South-east 8.5k on the Calder Hwy [A79], left (east) 6k on the Wedderburn-
Serpentine Rd, left into the Reserve (Major Mitchell sign post), right 300m on narrow gravel track
Privacy Very good: Well off a low use country road
Site description
A spacious reserve backed by the steep granite slopes of Mount Korong (364m). The small, peaceful picnic
area (1 table) is level, grassed over granite with thin shade from a couple of large Yellow Gum and surrounded
by wattle scrub. A pleasant, quiet camp with few tourists; can be hot in summer.
The track up Mount Korong (364m) often runs over granite slabs. Major Mitchell's view was hampered by fog
and rain but the outlook can be panoramic. Colourful Rock Isotome (Isotoma axillaris) are common in spring
and summer.
3. Ryan Cr : Rest Area

Type Road Rest Area Roadside 
Situated on the Calder Hwy [A79] 17k nor-west of Inglewood, 10k sou-east of Wedderburn.
VicRoads 29 D9 Hema 41 K10 Access Sealed Road Height 160 Privacy Adjacent to busy highway
Suit: Facilities:
Site description "small area with a couple of large trees" CFA District N. West Visit not yet Ref 190
4. Kooyoora State Park : Melville Caves

Type State Park Camp Ground  
Situated off the Calder Hwy [A70] between Inglewood and Wedderburn, west of Bendigo.
Access from Bendigo: North-west 35k on the Calder Hwy [A70] to Inglewood, left (south-west) 15k on the
Inglewood-Rehola Rd, keep right at Y junction 3.5k on the Wehia-Kingower Rd, right 2.5k on (signposted) the
Melville Caves Rd.
Privacy Well of main road, adjacent to tourist road.
VicRoads 43 D3
Hema 39 A10
Access Sealed Road
Size 8+ Height 380
Suit: 
Facilities: 
Boundary Not
controlled
Firewood Supplied
Activities
Contact Parks Vic
Inglewood (03) 5438
3066
Visit 10/10/00 Ref 610
Site description
Situated on a broad, sloping ridge top the camp ground consists of two large fenced areas containing informal
sites, some grassed and shaded but all sloping. Partial shade is provided by scattered Box, Stringybark and
wattle. Benches (4) are distant from BBQs (6). Popular with school groups. Potentially hot and dry in summer,
exposed to winter winds.
The nearby summit provides good views and the fissures allegedly provided shelter for bushrangers. The
granitic soils foster a woodland of Box (Long-leaved, Yellow), Red Stringybark and Forest Red Gum with an
understory of Black Wattle and shrubs. Surrounding the outcrop the sedimentary soils support Grey Box,
Ironbark and yellow Gum intermingled with mallee. Wildflowers are plentiful and varied - best in spring. Bird life
is plentiful and varied, included White and Major Mitchell cockatoos
5. Logan
Type Private land Informal/unofficial  
Situated in the yard behind the Logan Pub at the junction of the Bendigo-St Arnaud [B240] and Wedderburn
[C273] Roads
VicRoads 42 J3 Hema 39 A9 Access Sealed Road Size 3+ Height 170
Privacy Poor: exposed to Wedderburn Rd
Suit:  Facilities:  negotiate services with the barman Bookings Possible
Site description
A small, level, grassed (mown) yard at the rear of the hotel with some shade. Check with publican first.
This is a true "1 pub town": there is nothing else there (including no town).
Activities: Country pub
Contact Logan Pub (03) 5496 2220 CFA District N. West Visit 11/10/00 Ref 936
6. Water Point
Type State Forest Picnic Ground 
Situated south of St Arnaud.
Access from St Arnaud: South 16k on the Sunraysia Hwy (B220), right (sou-west) 3k on Thwaites Rd (gravel),
continue east on the Rostron-Stuart Mill Rd 1.4k, right (north) up Centre Rd ?1k
VicRoads 42 E6 Hema 39 B8 Height 320
Site description
"an attractive picnic area near a large pond" Ironbarks, Box, Peppermints and wattles
Major Mitchell first viewed the Grampians from a viewpoint north along the ridge.
CFA District N. West Visit not yet Ref 793
7. Kara-Kara State Park : Teddington

Type State Park Camp Ground  
Situated off the Sunrasia Hwy [B220], south of St Arnaud, by the Upper Teddington Reservoir
Access from St Arnaud: South 23k on the Sunrasia Hwy [B220] to Stuart Mill, right (south-west) 6k on the
Teddington Rd (signposted) past the Lower Teddington Reservoir into the State Park, 600m gravel to camping
area
Privacy Good: Well off main roads; expect day trippers; popular at peak periods
VicRoads 42 F7
Hema 39 B9
Access Conventional
Size 10+ Height 320
Suit: 
Facilities: 
Boundary Not
controlled
Firewood NO-BYO
Activities ; gold
mining relics
Contact Parks Vic
Visit 11/11/01 Ref 609
Site description
A pleasant lakeside camping area surrounded by rough, forested hills. Fireplaces and tables (9) are scattered
but may have to be shared at peak periods. Thin shade from Yellow and Grey Box to most sites. Most sites
slope. Plentiful bird life including rosellas and cockatoos.
Backed by dry, open ironbark-box forest with shrubby understory and wildflowers.
Warnings Beware of mine shafts, no swimming, no firewood collection permitted
8. Spring Valley
Type Road Rest Area Roadside   
Situated on the Sunraysia Hwy [B220] 34k north of Avoca, well signposted.
Privacy Reasonable: visually secluded but with occasional traffic noise.
VicRoads 42 G7
Hema 39 B9
Access Sealed Road
Size 4+ Height 280
Suit: 
Facilities: 
Boundary Not
controlled
Firewood Available
Visit 12/11/01
Ref 180
Site description
A standard roadside rest area but with an extended level area (old roadway) behind, secluded by vegetation.
Well shaded by large Yellow Gums. Facing paddocks and forested hills.
9. Tarnagulla Historic Reserve

Type LG Reserve Recreation Reserve  
VicRoads 43 F6
Hema 39 B10 Other
VicRoads 222B9
Access Sealed Road
Size 2+ Height 220
Suit: 
Facilities: 

Boundary Not
controlled
Firewood Available
Fees $5 per site/night
Bookings Possible
Contact Loddon Shire
Tarnagulla (03) 5438
7302
Visit 10/10/00 Ref 749
Situated just outside Tarnagulla [B240] between Bridgewater and Dunolly.
Access on the southern edge of Tarnagulla off the Bridgewater-Dunolly Rd [C274]: West 0.4k on Wyman St,
(signposted), to the recreation reserve.
Privacy Reasonable: Well of main roads, adjacent to recreation reserve: private except on sports days.
Site description
A picturesque, interesting, quiet site but potentially noisy if sport is being played. A small picnic area between
a historic oval and a reservoir. Light shade is provided by scattered Red Ironbark with no understory over
gravely clay with little grass. The historic reserve extends for some distance beyond the reservoir. Facilities (2
benches, 2 BBQ, light, play ground, oval, tennis court and a large 2 story pavilion) are very well maintained.
Power outlets are by the caretakers cabin. Hot showers are $1 coin operated.
Activities: tennis, historic ruins. Yabbies in reservoir, reportedly

10. Loddon State Forest : Waanyarra
Type State Forest Camp Ground  
Situated By Waanyarra Cr, between Bridgewater and Dunnolly
Access from Dunolly [C276]: North-east 10k on the Bridgewater-Dunolly [C274] Rd, right (south-east) 3k
(signposted) on the Waanyarra Cemetery Rd, on the right not far past the historic cemetery.
Privacy Good: Well
off main roads, on a
circuit road off a low
use forestry road.
VicRoads 43 E7
Hema 39 B10 Access
Conventional Size 5+
Height 200
Suit: 
Facilities: 
Boundary Not
controlled
Firewood Available
Bookings No: pot
luck
Contact DSE
Visit 9/10/00 Ref 748
Activities : 
Historic cemetery,
nature study.
Site description
A grassed creek flat surrounded by White Ironbark forest with a thin understudy of wattle and brush,
wildflowers and old gold diggings with Grey Box and Red Ironbark on the flinty ridges makes this a pleasant,
quiet site in spring and autumn, although it may be hot and dusty in summer. The Waanyarra Creek is normally
dry.
The fenced formal facility (shelter, table, 2 BBQs, & WC), established as a bicycle trail camp, has limited shade
but there are many informal shaded sites nearby, including a large bush camp site just up the nearby road on
the right.
Peppercorn, apple, quince, grape and cacti are remnants of mining settlements, which were extensive through
this forest.
11. Paddys Range State Park : Karri Track
Type State Park Camp Ground  
Situated just south of Maryborough, north of Ballarat.
Access from Maryborough: West 4k on the Pyrenees Hwy [B180], left (south-west) 1.3k on the Old Avoca Rd,
left (south) 1.8k on the Karri Track (gravel) (signposted), left (east) 0.2k on a signposted track to its end.
Privacy Very good: Well of the main road, park road and 2.5k from the day picnic area. Shrubs
providescreening between some sites.
VicRoads 58 D3
Hema 39 C10
Other Parks Vic
Pamphlet
Access Conventional
Size 3+ Height 260
Suit: 
Facilities:  
Boundary Not
controlled
Firewood Available
Activities: 
Nature study
Contact Parks Vic
Maryborough (03)
5461 1055
Visit 3/09/00
Ref 626
Site description
A small, quiet semi-arid box-ironbark camp, well away from roads and day areas. Three dispersed sites
designated by clearings in the scrub, one large enough for a couple of rigs, each with a fireplace. One table, pit
toilet and small water tank.
Set on low rolling gravely hills forested with Red Iron-bark and Grey Box with a good understory of scattered
wattles, shrubs and grass - a profusion of wild flowers in spring. Kangaroos, wallabies, rabbits, echidnas,
wedge-tailed eagles, falcons and honeyeaters are common, with water birds around the old Goldfields
Reservoir to the east nearer the Ballarat Rd.
There is a walking trail 2.5k to the picnic ground where an information board describes other walks. Gold
mining relics, Aboriginal sites.
Warnings Can be hot, dry and dusty in summer. The narrow winding Karri Track may be a little difficult for
caravans and long rigs.
12. Talbot State Forest : Stony Creek

Type State Forest, Picnic Ground  
Situated south of Maryborough and Talbot, north of Ballarat.
Access from Evansford (south of Talbot): North-east 1.8k on Evansford-Clunes Rd (Waubar Rd), left (north) 1.4k
on Thomas Rd (gravel) which becomes Stoney Creek Rd (narrow gravel) turning nor-east into the Forest, on the
left.
Dry weather access from the Old Ballarat Rd is possible
Privacy Reasonable: just off a very low use forest road
Site description
A small picnic ground in box-ironbark forest. Thin shade from Yellow Box over gravel. Best in spring, can be hot
and dry in summer.
The fenced area behind the picnic ground is an old school, with rocks surrounding garden beds established
c1902
VicRoads 58 C5
Hema 39 D10
Access Conventional
Size 2+ Height 300
Suit: 
Facilities:
Activities: 
Boundary Parking
fence
Firewood Available
Bookings No: pot
luck
Contact DSE
Maryborough
Visit 14/03/03
Ref 794
4.2(a) Bendigo (north)

1 Greater Bendigo National Park Rush Dam 3.9
2 Greater Bendigo National Park Mulga Dam 3.9
3 Runnymeade Highway Park 3.1
4 Englishs Rd Reserve 3.9
5 Barnadown 3.8
6 Huntly Huntly-Epsom Lions Park 3.5
7 Greater Bendigo National Park Loesar 3.1
8 Greater Bendigo National Park Shadbolt 4.1
9 Greater Bendigo National Park Notley 4.0
10 Wellsford State Forest Dodder 2.6
11 Wellsford State Forest Mahers Dam 3.2
12 Wellsford State Forest Gunyah
1. Greater Bendigo National Park: Rush Dam
Type State Park, Bush camp  
Situated near the north-western edge of the Park, north of Bendigo, west of Elmore.
Access from Bendigo [A79]: North east 13k on the Midland Hwy [A300] to Huntly, left (north) 18.5k on Burgoyne
St which becomes the Neilborouh (Millwood) Rd (sealed 5k) and then Kamarooka West Rd, left (west) 0.8k on
Camp Rd (narrow, some gravel).
Privacy Good: A quiet site surrounded by box-iron bark forest and wattle by a very low use track.
VicRoads 44 G2
Hema 39 A12
Other FCV Bendigo
Whipstick Forest Park
Access Conventional
Size 5+ Height 150
Suit: 
Facilities:
Activities: 
Boundary Not
controlled
Firewood Available
Contact Parks Vic
Visit 22/08/00
Ref 629
Warnings Do not
depend on the dam
for water. May be hot
and dusty in summer.
Site description
Dispersed bush camping by a large dam wall (with little water) surrounded by dry Box forest. A quiet site
surrounded by box-iron bark forest and wattle by a very low use track. Open shade to most sites provided by
Grey Box and Yellow Gum (White Ironbark) with some heath understory and minimal grass cover to the gravely
soil.
There are indications of early settlement - eucalyptus oil tanks, clearings and a grassed house site with two
peppercorn trees overlooking a paddock of Whirrakee wattle. Spectacular wildflowers in spring.
The area is claimed to have the highest concentration of songbirds in Australia. Being on the north/south divide
between habitats species common to both wetter and dryer areas are present.
2. Greater Bendigo National Park: Mulga Dam

Type State Park, Bush camp  
Situated near the northern edge of the Park, north of Bendigo, west of Elmore.
Access from Bendigo [A79]: North east 15k on the Midland Hwy [A300] through Huntly, left (north) 16.6k on the
Tennyson Rd [C338] to about 1.5k short of the Elmore-Raywood Rd [C337], left (west) 0.8k on Camp Rd
(narrow, winding, flat, graded natural gravel).
Privacy Good: by a little used road surrounded by box-iron bark forest
Site description
A small quiet site in open box-iron bark forest by a small dam. One fireplace and bench located by the little
used forestry road. Grey Box and Yellow Gum provide quite good shade, for a semi-arid area, with an
understory of low heath scrub. Minimal grass cover to the gravely soil. Spectacular wildflowers in spring.
Claimed to have the highest concentration of songbirds in Australia. Being on the north/south divide between
habitats species common to both wetter and dryer areas are present.
Warnings Do not depend on the dam for water. Can be hot and dusty in summer.
VicRoads 44 G2 Hema
39 A12 Other FCV
Bendigo Whipstick
Forest Park 1:75,000
Access Conventional
Size 2+ Height 150
Suit: 
Facilities :
Boundary Not
controlled
Firewood Available
Activities: 
nature study
Contact Parks Vic
Visit 22/08/00
Ref 628
3. Runnymeade Highway Park

Type Road Rest Area, Hwy Park  
Situated between the Northern Hwy [B75] and the Campaspe Rv, north-east of Bendigo, just south of Elmore.
Access from Elmore: East 2k on the Midland Hwy [A300], right (south) 3k on the Northern [B75] Hwy,
signposted on the right (west).
Privacy Reasonable: Most sites observable from highway 200-300m through open, scattered trees. A few sites
down the river bank are secluded.
VicRoads 45 B2
Hema 39 A13
Access Sealed Road
Size 15+ Height 130
Suit: 
Facilities:  

Activities: if the
river flows
Boundary Not
controlled
Firewood Available
Contact VicRoads
CFA District N. East
Visit 22/08/00
Ref 726
Site description
For a roadside rest area quite a good overnight site.
A large, level grassed reserve, with scattered Yellow Box (mature and juvenile) plus some wattle providing
some shade and privacy although most sites are observable from the highway 200-300m away. Signs request
rubbish be taken with you but bins are provided and obviously emptied. Some shrub planting has been
undertaken (by a local school) but what could be an attractive site suffers from lack of maintenance (Aug
2000):
the day area is overgrown
the high quality toilet block is scruffy
the electric BBQ is not working.
A good gravel, graded track leads down to the Campaspe River flood flats with 3+ secluded sites shaded by
Red River Gum (mature and juvenile). River flow is limited, even in winter, unless Lake Eppalock is full. Beware
of flash floods.
4. Goornong: Englishs Rd Reserve

Type Reserve, Bush camp  
Situated on the Campaspe Rv nor-east of Bendigo.
Access from Goornong on the Midland Hwy [A300] (29k nor-east of Bendigo): East at the hotel 400m on Chute
St, left (east) 5k on Englishs Rd, cross the Campaspe Rv, tracks on the left and right.
Privacy Good: Secluded from very low use country road
VicRoads 45 A3
Hema 39 A12
Access Dry weather
only
Size 25+ Height 135
Suit: 
Facilities: 
Activities: , if
the river flows
Boundary Not
controlled
Firewood Available
Bookings No: pot
luck

Visit 19/11/01
Ref 921
Site description
Pleasant, quiet, large riverside reserve. Generally level, open, well grassed with riverside Red gums. Recent
tree plantings will improve aspect.
5. Goornong: Barnadown
Type Reserve, Bush camp  
Situated on the Campaspe Rv nor-east of Bendigo.
Access from Goornong on the Midland Hwy [A300] (29k nor-east of Bendigo): South-east 6k on the Barnadown
Rd , cross the Campaspe Rv, track on the right at a fish sign, 200m.
Privacy Reasonable: Well off but within view of low use country road
Site description
Pleasant riverside camping, level and well shaded by River Red Gums over short grass. A reasonably large
reserve but road is within view through open forest.
Warnings Access track may be slippery if wet
VicRoads 45 A4
Hema 39 A12
Access Dry weather
only
Size 5+ Height 140
Suit: 
Facilities:: 
Activities: , if
the river flowing
Boundary Not
controlled
Firewood Available
Bookings No: pot
luck

Visit 19/11/01
Ref 920
6. Huntly:- Huntly-Epsom Lions Park

Type Road Rest Area, Roadside  
Situated on the southern edge of Huntly, north-east of Bendigo, by Back Creek.
Signposted on the Midland Hwy [A300] 11k north-east of Bendigo
Privacy Reasonable: Off the Midland Hwy secluded by trees and ablution block, regular traffic noise
VicRoads 44 G4
Hema 39 A12
Other VicRoads
277M8; Macromap
"Bendigo Naturally-
Rural"
Access Sealed Road
Size 3 Height 160
Suit: 
Facilities: 

Boundary Parking
fence
Bookings No: pot
luck
Visit 12/10/00
Ref 771
Site description
A surprisingly pleasant rest area near Bendigo. About the size of a house block with a level, gravelled circuit
parking area secluded behind the ablution block and shrubs. This small park is well shaded by large Yellow
Gums by the small Back Creek. Facilities (small picnic ground by creek) are well maintained.
7. Greater Bendigo National Park: Loesar
Type State Park, Camp Ground  
Situated north of Bendigo.
Access from Bendigo [A79]: North 6k on the Loddon Valley Hwy [B260] through California Gully, just over the
railway bridge turn right (north-east) 3k on Jobs Gully Rd, cross Eaglehawk-Epsom Rd, north 5.5k on the
Eaglehawk-Neilborough Rd (gravel), right (north) 3.8k on Sandfly Rd, right (east) 0.2k on Skylark Rd, left (north)
1k on Loesar Rd.
Alternative access from Huntly (Midland Hwy) via Millwood and Boundary Rds
Privacy Reasonable: Adjacent and open to low use forestry roads.
VicRoads 44 F4
Hema 39 A12
Other FCV Bendigo
Access Conventional
Size 6+ Height 180
Suit: 
Facilities: 
Activities: 
Nature study,
Boundary Not
controlled
Firewood Available
Warnings Potentially
hot, dry and dusty in
summer.
Contact Parks Vic
Visit 12/10/00 Ref 632
Site description
An old eucalyptus still site with limited shade from scattered Yellow Gum (White Ironbark) (E. leucoxylon) below
a large dam. A dry, informal open camp with 3 benches and BBQs, potentially hot and dusty in summer. An old
engine boiler and the dam are the main distinguishing features. Situated in an open forest of Grey Box (E.
microcarpa), Red Ironbark (E. sideroxylon) and Whipstick mallee (blue, green, and bull mallees) on clay and
rocky ground. Spectacular wildflowers in spring. A wide range of songbirds, especially in spring.
8. Greater Bendigo National Park: Shadbolt

Type State Park, Camp Ground  
Situated not far north of Bendigo on the western edge of the Park.
railway bridge turn right (north-east) 3k on Jobs Gully Rd, cross the Eaglehawk-Epsom Rd, north 6k on the
Eaglehawk-Neilborough Rd (gravel) to the Notley Camp turnoff, continue on 3.6k past the old Camp Hotel
(closed) and Skylark Rd turnoff (signposted parking area), right 0.1k on a signposted access road.
Privacy Good - a forested cul-de-sac off main roads.
Site description
A small clearing in open forest of Red Ironbark backed by a mixture of Yellow Gum (White Ironbark) and Grey
Box with Whipstick mallee (blue, green, and bull mallees) on clay and rocky ground.
Originally an eucalyptus oil distillery site there are a few peppercorn trees and cacti scattered around the dam
just below the camp site, all contributing to provide the most attractive camp around Bendigo. The fenced,
level cul-de-sac car park can be crowded with picnickers at weekends and constrains access to the facilities (3
benches, 2 BBQs).
Best in spring when wildflowers are spectacular. Songbirds are common: being on the north/south divide
between habitats, species common to both wetter and dryer areas are present.
VicRoads 44 E4
Hema 39 A12
Other FCV Bendigo
Access Conventional
Size 4+ Height 200
Suit: 
Facilities: 

Activities: 
Nature study
Boundary Parking
fence
Firewood Limited
hot in summer.
Contact Parks Vic
Visit 11/10/00 Ref 630
9. Greater Bendigo National Park: Notley

Situated not far north of Bendigo.
railway bridge turn right (north-east) 3k on Jobs Gully Rd, cross the Eaglehawk-Epsom Rd, north 6k on the
Eaglehawk-Neilborough Rd (gravel), left 0.4k on Notley Rd (signposted).
Privacy Very good - at the end of a cul-de-sac off main roads, the camping area is separated from the day area.
VicRoads 44 F4
Hema 39 A12
Other FCV Bendigo
Access Conventional
Size 7 Height 180
Suit: 
Facilities: 

Activities: 
Nature study 
Boundary Specific
sites
Firewood Limited
hot in summer
Contact Parks Vic
Visit 10/10/00
Ref 631
Site description
Situated in an open dry sclerophyll forest of Grey Box, Red Ironbark and Yellow Gum (White Ironbark) on gravel
this is a quiet camping area at the end of a cul-de-sac. Designated sites are scattered around a circuit road by
a large grassed clearing (fenced for rejuvenation). All 7 car parks are level, gravelled and lightly shaded but
only 3 have a table and BBQ (gas cooking preferred) and all are short (6-7m). A bus parking area is without
shade. There is a very large shelter shed and an old dam in the separate day area.
Spectacular wildflowers in spring. Potentially hot and dry in summer. Claimed to have the highest
concentration of songbirds in Australia. Being on the north/south divide between habitats species common to
both wetter and dryer areas are present.
10. Wellsford State Forest: Dodder

Type State Forest, Picnic Ground  
Situated just north-east of Bendigo.
Access from Bendigo: North-east 5k on the Midland Hwy [A300], right (east) 3.5k on the Strathdale-White Hills
Rd [C343] Rd which continues on as Heinz St after the racecourse (gravel 2k) to the junction with Soundry Rd
and Dodder Track.
Privacy Poor, adjacent to the junction of three roads.
VicRoads 44 G5
Hema 39 B12
Other MacroMap "
Bendigo Naturally -
Rural"
Access Conventional
Size 1 Height 200
Suit: 
Facilities: 
Activities: 
Nature study
Boundary Parking
fence
Firewood Available
hot in summer
Contact DSE Bendigo
(03) 5430 4444
Visit 10/10/00
Ref 651
Site description
A small picnic ground with a very small, sloping fenced parking area. Thin shade provided by Black Ironbark
with a thin heath understory. Wildflowers plentiful in spring. Facilities (table and BBQ) broken. A rather scruffy
site which can be hot and dusty in summer. Situated on the Bendigo Bushland Walking Trail this is a popular
picnicking and horse riding area.
Dispersed bush camping (no facilities) is encouraged away from day use areas.
11. Wellsford State Forest: Mahers Dam

Situated north-east of Bendigo.
Access from Bendigo: East 3.6k on the McIvor Hwy [B260], left (north) 0.8k on Pratts Park Rd across Strickland
Rd and the O'Keefe Rail Trail to the Rifle Range Picnic Ground, sharp right 0.6k on the Rifle Range Rd (gravel)
left (north-east) 5.5k on Plant Rd (narrow, twisty, but level gravel). (At 2.3k pass the Dodder Trk [1.2k to the
Dodder Picnic Ground], a further 1.7k keep right at the unsigposted Y junction, the Dam is 1.5 further on).
Privacy Reasonable: off low use forest road, bush sites available further around dam.
Warnings Hot, dry and dusty in summer.
Site description
Situated in dry Red Ironbark forest on gravely clay by an unexpectedly large dam. The picnic facilities (2
benches, 2 BBQs) are contained within a small fenced enclosure just above the dam wall. Informal bush
camping sites are available further up around the dam. Thin shade from Red and White Ironbark with a minimal
understory. Wildflowers are prolific in spring.
Horesriding is popular, encouraging flies. A rather scruffy, dry area relieved only by the dam.
VicRoads 44 H5 Hema
39 B12
Other MacroMap "
Bendigo Naturally -
Rural"
Access Conventional
Size 8+ Height 200
Suit: 
Facilities: 
Activities: 
Nature study
Boundary Not
controlled
Firewood Limited
Contact DSE Bendigo

(03) 5430 4444
Visit 10/10/00
Ref 768
12. Wellsford State Forest: Gunyah

Type State Forest, Picnic Ground 
Situated north-east of Bendigo.
Access from Bendigo: East 3.6k on the McIvor Hwy [B260], left (north) 0.8k on Pratts Park Rd across Strickland
Rd and the O'Keefe Rail Trail to the Rifle Range Picnic Ground, sharp right 0.6k on the Rifle Range Rd (gravel)
left (north-east) 10k on Plant Rd (narrow, twisty, but level gravel). (At 4k keep right at the unsigposted Y
junction, pass the Mahers Dam 1.5 further on).
VicRoads 44 H5 Hema 39 B12 Other MacroMap " Bendigo Naturally - Rural"
Access Conventional Height 190 Privacy Poor: By forestry road junction
Facilities: Activities:  Nature study

Site description
Situated in dry Red Ironbark forest on gravely clay. Thin shade from Red and White Ironbark with a minimal
understory although wildflowers are prolific in spring.
Bush camping away from day areas is encouraged.
Contact DSE Bendigo (03) 5430 4444 CFA District N. West Visit not yet Ref 769
4.2(b) Bendigo (south)

13 Marong State Forest Bullock Picnic Ground 3.6
14 Lockwood South Happy Jacks Streamside Reserve 3.3
15 Bridgewater on Loddon The Mill 3.5
16 Newbridge River Reserve 3.8
17 Laanecoorie River Reserve 3.6
18 Maldon Historic Reserve Butts Reserve 3.3
19 Muckleford State Forest Red White & Blue Mine 3.7
20 Newstead 3.1
21 Castlemain Jessie Kennedy Reserve 2.7
22 Vaughan Mineral Springs Caravan Park 3.9
23 Warburton Bridge Reserve 2.9
24 Harcourt Ellerys 2.0
25 Faraday 1.8
26 Mt Alexander Regional Park Koala Park 4.3
27 Harcourt The Oaks 4.1
28 Heathcote-Graytown National Park Dargile Plantation 3.3
13. Marong State Forest:- Bullock Picnic Ground
Situated west of Bendigo, off the Calder Alternative Hwy
Access from Bendigo: West 14k on the Calder Hwy [A79] to Marong, left south 5.5k on the Calder Alternative
[A790] to just south of the Bullock Cr bridge, left (north-east) 200m on the Bullock Rd, on the right.
Privacy Good: Out of sight of highway, although there is some distant traffic noise at night.
VicRoads 44 D6
Hema 39 B11
Other MacroMap
"Bendigo Naturally -
Rural"
Access Conventional
Size 4+ Height 100
Suit: 
Facilities: 
Activities: 
Nature study
Boundary Not
controlled
Firewood Available
Contact DSE Bendigo
(03) 5430 4444 CFA
District N. West Visit
10/10/00 Ref 650
Site description
A reasonably pleasant, quiet overnight stop situated in open Ironbark forest on rocky soil.
Facilities (6 benches, 3 BBQs) are spread up a gully by a seasonal creek below a large, old water supply
reservoir. Although located on a hillside, there are level grassed sites, the heritage of eucalyptus distillery
activity. Ruined brick walls remain. Shade is provided by White Ironbark and Grey Box. Although undergrowth
is minimal wildflowers (and birdlife) are prolific in spring.
Green Gully Reservoir is situated 100m further up the gully.
14. Lockwood South: Happy Jacks Streamside Reserve

Type Reserve, Picnic Ground  
VicRoads 44 D7
Hema 39 B11
Access Sealed Road
Size 6+
Height 230
Suit:  
Facilities: 
Boundary Not
controlled
Firewood Limited
Visit 12/10/00
Ref 188
Situated off the Calder Hwy Alternate by-passing south-west of Bendigo.
Access: Off the Calder Hwy Alternate [A790] about 0.6k north of the Maldon Rd [C283] junction, opposite
Happy Jacks store at Lockwood South (signposted rest area).
Privacy Reasonable: Large area, some sites secluded by slope and trees but traffic noise is regular.
Site description
A convenient, pleasant overnight stop although there is regular traffic noise.
The large roadside reserve is a level, green, grassy creek flat below the highway, shaded by very large River
Red Gums and with a pleasant outlook across the Bullock Creek (small, filled with bulrushes) to treed hills. May
be boggy if wet. Country store and phone box over the highway
The original facilities (4 benches) are on a small terrace nearer but below the highway. Toilets have been
relocated to the recreation ground (follow sealed road a few metres to the south), complete with a sealed car
park which is un-shaded and overlooked from the highway.
Warnings Creek flats may be boggy after rain
15. Bridgewater on Loddon: The Mill

Type Reserve, Informal/unofficial  
Situated by the Loddon Rv just north of the flour mill at Bridgewater on Loddon
Access from Bridgewater (Calder Hwy [A79]): North 1.2k on the Bridgewater-Raywood Rd to just past
Waterwheel vineyard, left (west) 0.5k on an unnamed lane (gravel) to the large turning circle by the flour mill
back gate, short rocky track down to the Loddon River on right.
Privacy Good: Well off highway, some hum from the mill
VicRoads 43 H3
Hema 39 A11
Access Dry weather
only
Size 2+ Height 130
Suit: 
Facilities: 
Activities ,
waterfall, vineyard
Boundary Not
controlled
Firewood Available
(03) 5438 7280
Visit 12/11/01
Ref 189
Site description
A small level grassy area with shade from River Red Gums and peppermints overlooking an attractive local
swimming hole below rapids on the Loddon Rv, spoilt by a bit of rubbish.
On the western bank "The Ponds" picnic area, off Serpentine [C274] Rd, right down Chinaman's Lane, has no
vehicle access and the railway land (car park) is signed no camping.
16. Newbridge: River Reserve

Type LG Reserve, Camp Ground   
Situated By the Loddon River at Newbridge, south of Bridgewater, west of Bendigo.
Access off the Bendigo-St Arnaud [B240] Rd by the bridge just east of Newbridge, through the recreation
reserve.
Privacy Good: Well off main roads but could be noisy on sports days
VicRoads 43 G5 Hema 39 B11 Access Sealed Road Size 50+ Height 140
Suit: 
Facilities:  
(small)
Activities 
Boundary Not
controlled
Firewood Limited
Fees $5 per night/site
Bookings Possible
(03) 5438 7280
Visit 10/10/00 Ref 750
Site description
Pleasant riverside camping in the Newbridge Recreation Reserve. Extended grassed river flats (mown by
sheep), shaded by River Red Gums with no understory or shrubs. A reasonably attractive area popular for
fishing, although a little expensive at $5 per night/site given the limited facilities (WC and bins). Well off main
roads but could be noisy on sports days. Some sites are overlooked by the road and houses across the river
but there are many alternatives. Sections of the site road may be boggy after rain but there is alternative higher
access by the recreation ground.
Hotel and store within walking distance.
17. Laanecoorie: River Reserve

Type LG Reserve, Caravan Park   
Situated By the Loddon River adjacent to Laanecoorie village, south of Bridgewater, northwest of Maldon, west
of Bendigo.
Access off the Laanecoorie-Tarngulla Rd at Laanecoorie, on the east side of the Loddon Rv. bridge.
Privacy Reasonable:
Well off but overlooked
by low use country road
VicRoads 43 G7 Hema
39 B10 Access Sealed
Road Size 10+ Height
150
Suit: 
Facilities:
 
Activities 
Boundary Not
controlled
Firewood Limited
Fees $2.50 per
night/site (power $6.50)
Bookings Possible
(03) 54357200 or
54356270 CFA District
N. West Visit 10/10/00
Ref 747
Site description
Pleasant riverfront camping on extended grassed tiered flats, overlooking the reasonably large London River,
some sites shaded by River Red Gums and a few exotics. Facilities include WC block, 4 benches, bins, 1x4 way
power outlet but no formal BBQ. Caretaker behind the shop (closed) over the road. A pleasant local fishing and
swimming reserve, although a little close to the road and small village.
18. Maldon Historic Reserve: Butts Reserve

Type Historic Area, Camp Ground  
Situated at the base of Mt Tarrengower 3k north-west of Maldon, south-west of Bendigo.
Access from Maldon [C283]: North 1.2k on the Bridgewater-Maldon Rd [C282], left (west) 1k on Franklin Street,
well signposted on the left just as Franklin Street starts climbing Mt Tarrengower, camp area 300m behind the
day area.
Privacy Reasonable: 400m off the Mt Tarrengower lookout tourist road in a gully behind the day area .
VicRoads 44 B9 Hema
39 C11
Access Conventional
Size 10+ Height 390
Suit: 
Facilities: 
Boundary Not
controlled
Firewood NO-BYO
Contact Parks Vic

Visit 4/09/00 Ref 9
Site description
A large open woodland area near historic Maldon, at the base of Mt Tarrengower. Dispersed camping in the
open gully behind the day area. Some shade from scattered Manna (Ribbony) Gum, Yellow Gum, Broad-leaved
Peppermint and Grey Box over grass and granite boulders. Much of the camp area slopes and is a little scruffy.
The formed access road up the gully can be rutted after rain runoff. Extensive plantings of trees and shrubs
around the day area and on the surrounding ridges will improve the visual aspect.
There are 5 well shaded tables and fireplaces in the day area (not signposted as such) with level, fenced
parking bays, separated by shrubs.
Activities: Walking tracks to historic gold mining relics. Visit historic Maldon, climb or drive to Mt
Tarrengower (570m) lookout.
Warnings Advised to bring your own firewood and drinking water (the source of the tap water is uncertain).
19. Muckleford State Forest: Red White & Blue Mine

Type State Forest, Camp Ground  
Situated in the Muckleford Forest, west of Castlemain, south of Maldon.
Access from Castlemain: West 4k on the Pyrenees Hwy [B180], right (north-west) 1.5k on the Maldon Rd
[C282], left 4k on the Muckleford School Rd (gravel) to the forest boundary, half left 1.3k
VicRoads 59 C2 Hema 39
C11 Access
Privacy Good: well off
main roads but open to
day trippers
Suit: 
Facilities:
Activities: 
Firewood Available
Warnings Potentially hot

in summer
Contact DSE
Visit 14/03/03 Ref 1012
Site description
An interesting camp in open box-ironbark forest by a large historic metal poppet head and mullock heaps. Best
in spring
5 dispersed BBQs and benches, most with level parking nearby, open shade from Red Box and Ironbark and a
view over one of the 3 dams.
20. Newstead: River Reserve

Type Reserve, Informal/unofficial  
Situated by the Loddon River in Newstead, west of Castlemaine
Access tracks lead up and down stream from both sides of the Pyrenees Highway [B180] bridge
Privacy Reasonable - possible to get out of view of houses and highway
VicRoads 59 B3
Hema 39 C11
Other VicRoads 286
B3
Access Dry weather
only Size 5+
Suit:  
Facilities: 
Activities Walk to the hotel
Boundary Not
controlled
Firewood Limited
Bookings No: pot
luck
Warnings Beware of
floods
Visit 14/03/03
Ref 878
Site description
Riverside sites on a flood-plain reserve. Some shade from a single row of River Red Gums. Grassed (slashed)
and level. No facilities. Toilets by the hall, north-east of the Loddon, on Panmure St
21. Castlemain: Jessie Kennedy Reserve

Type Road Rest Area, Roadside  
Situated by the Midland Hwy [A300] 6k south of Castlemain, signed on the right
Privacy Poor, limited scope to escape observation from adjacent hwy
VicRoads 59 D3 Hema
39 C11 Access Sealed
Road Size 3+
Suit: 
Facilities: 
Boundary Not
controlled
Firewood Limited
Site description
A reasonably large,
grassed, level area by
a pleasant creek
valley. Some shade
from a couple of large
Manna Gums. Jessie
Kennedy was the first
European born in the
area.

Visit 14/03/03
Ref 1011
22. Vaughan Mineral Springs: Caravan Park

Type State Park, Caravan Park  
Situated in the Loddon Rv gorge, south of Castlemaine, north of Daylesford.
Access from Castlemaine [B180] : South 8k on the Midland Hwy [A300] almost to Yapeen, left (east) 1k to
Strathloddon, right (south) 4k on the Vaughan Springs Rd to Vaughan Springs, cross the Fryers Cr bridge 300m
on the Drummond Rd up to the top of the hill, right (round the Chinese cemetery) down to the park (signposted),
through the day area to caravan park.
Also off the Calder Hwy [A79] at Taradale , west 19k on the Fryerstown Rd.
VicRoads 59 E4 Hema 39 C11 Access Sealed Road Size 14 Height 270
Privacy Good, well off main roads, at road end; but crowded at peak periods
Site description
Located in a secluded ravine by the upper Loddon River is a well developed picnic area and caravan park
shaded by exotics, surrounded by steep rocky slopes. The caravan park, generally staffed at weekends and
peak holidays, is small and rather cramped with only half the sites shaded. Little grass. Laundry, no BBQs.
Caretaker may be hard to find.
The free camping area near the park entry is now signed "No Camping"
Suit:  
Facilities: 

Activities
Boundary Specific
sites
Fees $14 p/n
Bookings Advised
Warnings Some low
branches - high rigs
take care. Dry and hot
in summer
Contact ParksVic
5473 4282
Visit 13/03/03 Ref 648
23. Warburton Bridge Reserve

Type Reserve, Bush camp  
On grassy flats by the Loddon Rv, south of Castlemaine, north of Daylesford, west of Malmsbury.
Access from Castlemaine [B180] : South 8k on the Midland Hwy [A300] almost to Yapeen, left (east) 1k to
Strathloddon, right (south) 4k on the Vaughan Springs Rd to Vaughan Springs, continue east 1.5k on the
Drummond-Vaughan Rd to the Fryerstown Rd junction, right (south) 1.8k on the Drummond Rd, on the left just
south of the Loddon River bridge.
Also off the Calder Hwy [A79] at Malmsbury, south 4k on the Daylesford Rd [C316], right (west) 16.5k on the
Drummond-Vaughan Rd.
Privacy Poor: Most of the reserve is very open to the road, except for 2 sites around the hill at the back.
VicRoads 59 E4
Hema 39 C12
Access Sealed Road
Size 20+ Height 290
Suit: 
Facilities: 
Activities
Boundary Not
controlled
Firewood Limited
Warnings Bring
drinking water and
firewood. Grass may
be boggy when wet.
Contact DSE
Visit 13/10/00
Ref 649
Site description
Bush camping on the banks of the Loddon River. Most of the reserve is a cleared level paddock, well grassed
but open to the road and shaded by one fir tree. Grass may be boggy when wet. Backed by a steep lightly treed
ridge and facing a state forest (Yellow Box and Long-leaved (Bundy) Box) across the gurgling stream. Popular
at peak periods
At the rear of the site the gravelled access track winds round the base of the ridge to a secluded nook with
space for 2 or 3rigs, shaded by the ridge. This can be a pleasant, small bush camp (rates 4)
24. Harcourt: Ellerys

Type Road Rest Area, Roadside  
On the Calder Hwy [A79] 10k south of Harcourt, 111k north of Melbourne, west side of hwy
Privacy Reasonable, possible to achieve visual seclusion from adjacent highway
VicRoads 59 F3 Hema
39 E12
Access Sealed Road
Size 5+
Suit: 
Facilities: 
Boundary Not
controlled
Firewood Limited
Visit 14/03/03
Ref 1010
Site description
A large, extended gravelled area, mostly gently sloping but with a couple of level areas. Afternoon shade from
Peppermint and Manna Gum. Overlooks open forest and scrub. Some rubbish. BBQ burnt out.
Marked as a Parking area on VicRoads maps but signed as a Rest area.
25. Harcourt: Faraday

Type Road Rest Area, Roadside  
On the eastern side of the Calder Hwy [A79] 7k south of Harcourt, 114k north of Melbourne.
VicRoads 59 F2 Hema 39 C12 Access Sealed Road Size 2+ Height 410
Privacy Very poor: open to adjacent busy highway. Overlooked by house.
Site description
A broad open level area on the hill top adjacent to the highway. Shade from one large cypress and a few
Peppermint. Views across open paddocks.
Suit: 
Facilities: 
Firewood Limited

Visit 14/03/03
Ref 187
26. Mt Alexander Regional Park: Koala Park

Located south of Bendigo, east of Harcourt.
Access From Bendigo: South 36k on the Calder Hwy [A79] to Faraday, left (east) 3k on the Sutton Grange Road,
left (north) (signposted) 2k up the Mt Alexander Tourist Rd (narrow, winding, sealed) past the old Koala Park,
left 200m (signposted) (gravel) to the Koala Park.
Privacy Good: Well of main roads, at the end of a tourist cul-de-sac; some day visitors.
VicRoads 59 F2 Hema
39 C12
Other MacroMap
"Bendigo Naturally-
Rural"
Access Sealed Road
Size 4+ Height 640
Suit: 
Facilities: 
Activities Koala
spotting, lookouts
Boundary Parking
fence
Firewood Available
Warnings Cold in winter
(snow) Contact Parks
Vic CFA District N. West
Visit 12/10/00 Ref 162
Site description
An attractive, green, ridge top site well shaded and wind protected by white trunked Manna (Ribbony) Gum
forest with an understory of scattered wattles and good grass cover over blue-gray granite. The cul-de-sac
circuit road has a few small fenced parking areas, some with BBQ and/or bench. Dispersed bush camping is
encouraged on the grassed saddle beyond the day area.
Potentially cold in winter (ice and snow not unusual). Also know as Leanganoo
27. Harcourt: The Oaks
Type Private land, Bush camp  
Situated below Mt Alexander, south of Bendigo, east of Harcourt.
Access from Harcourt (30k south of Bendigo) on the Calder Hwy [A79]: East 1.5k (opposite milk bar) up Market
St. Cross Danns Rd, continue east 0.5 on Picnic Rd (gravel) to sign warning against christmas tree removal and
three-way road junction, sharp left (north) about 0.4k to the Oak plantation, right 200m to bush camp area.
Privacy Very good, well off main roads at track end
VicRoads 59 F2 Hema
39 C12
Access Conventional
Size 8+ Height 420
Suit: 
Facilities: 
Activities
Boundary Not
controlled
Firewood Available

Visit 13/03/03
Ref 161
Site description
A very pleasant site on the lower slopes of Mt Alexander. Features an oak plantation planted 1900 (some
dispersed bush camping possible) and a level, grassed area by a small creek (intermittent)), well shaded by
mature furs and pines with a few Yellow and Manna Gums and one BBQ. Surrounding pine plantations have
been cleared but are regrowing. Plentiful bird life, including kookaburras. Also known as "The Pines"
28. Heathcote-Graytown NP: Dargile Plantation

Type National Park, Camp Ground  
Located east of Bendigo, just north of Heathcote in Ironbark forest.
Access from Bendigo [A79]: North-east 2k on the Midland Hwy [A300], right (east) 44k on the McIvor Hwy
[B280] just into Heathcote, left (east) 5k on Chauncey St which becomes the Heathcote-Costerfield Rd past the
showground, left (north) 4k on Plantation Rd (2.5 gravel), left (west) at a large picnic ground sign 0.6k down
Plantation Tk (good gravel).
Privacy Reasonable: Open to a regularly used country road. Recent shrub plantings will take a few years to
screen the site.
Site description
A reasonably pleasant camp, if it is not crowded or the weather is not too hot. The camp consists of a sandy
clearing with an adjacent large gravelled car park which slopes and has limited shade. Recently re-developed,
the facilities (large shelter with 4 BBQs, tank, 5 benches, 2 BBQs, composting toilet) are good. Exposed to
regular traffic on Plantation Tk although recent plantings may eventually improve privacy. Popular horse riding
camp - flies.
Surrounded by a White Ironbark forest with an understory of wattle, brush and wildflowers. There is a wide
variety and quantity of small birds, plus flies. Wildflowers in spring. An unusual feature is a flourishing grove of
Sandalwood (NSW rainforest).
Informal bush camping is possible nearby, south down the adjacent track. Bush camping may be restricted as
the area develops as a National Park.
VicRoads 45 D7 Hema 39 B13 Other MacroMap " Bendigo Naturally - Rural"
Access Conventional Size 4+ Height 240
Suit: 
Facilities:
 
Activities 
Two walking trails
(2.5k & 5.5k, 1hr &
2.5hr return)
Boundary Parking
fence
Firewood Available
Warnings May be hot,
dry and dusty in
summer
Contact DSE Bendigo
(03) 5430 4444
Visit 6/10/00 Ref 652
Loddon River below

Bridgewater
4.2 Pyrenees

1 Landsborough
2 Moonambel Mountain Creek 4.4
3 Avoca Avoca River 2.8
4 Pyrenees State Forest Number 2 Creek Waterfalls 4.2
5 Pyrenees State Forest Glenpatrick picnic ground 4.2
6 Glenpatrick Reserve 3.5
7 Elmhurst 3.6
8 Mt Buangor State Park Ferntree 4.4
9 Mt Buangor State Park Middle Creek 4.2
11~17 Mt Cole State Forest
1. Landsborough
Type Private land, Caravan Park
In Landsborough village, northeast of Ararat, east of Stawell
Signposted behind hotel on Burke St [C241]
VicRoads 57 D2 Hema 39 C8 Access Sealed Road Height 240
Contact Landsborough Hotel (03) 5356 9320 CFA District N. West Visit not yet Ref 746
2. Moonambel: Mountain Creek

Type State Forest, Picnic Ground  
On the edge of Moonambel village, north east of Avoca.
Access from the Moonambel Hotel on the Stawell-Avoca Rd [C221]: North 200m on Greens Lane (gravel) over
creek.
Privacy Reasonable: Well off local through road, a couple of village houses nearby
VicRoads 42 G9
Hema 39 C9
Access Sealed Road
Size 4 Height 270
Suit 
Facilities:

Boundary Parking
fence
Firewood Limited
Activities tour
vineyards
Warnings Large rigs
may have difficulty
turning if others are
parked.
Contact DSE
Maryborough
(03)5461 1055 CFA
District S. West Visit
20/11/01 Ref 179
Site description
A very attractive grassed picnic ground with a level gravelled parking area, shaded by River Red and Yellow
Gums, by the intermittent Mountain Creek. Near village store, vineyards and friendly country hotel.
3. Avoca : Avoca River

Type Road Rest Area, Informal/unofficial  
On the Sunraysia Hwy [B220] 3k north of Avoca, access river flats from the signposted rest area just north of
Vale Bridge
Site description
Roadside bush camping. The Rest Area is signposted 'no camping' but a track leads down to the level river
flats where thick grass is occasionally slashed. Good shade and some privacy provided by River Red and
Yellow gums. River flow is seasonal - flooded or dry.
There is another rest area about 4k further north, well off the highway but fully exposed under open Yellow
gums.
Privacy Poor: Partially secluded from but near a highway
VicRoads 57 J2
Hema 39 C9
Access Dry weather
only
Size 4+
Suit: 
Facilities:  
Boundary Not
controlled
Firewood Available
CFA District S. West
Visit 20/11/01
Ref 178
4. Pyrenees State Forest : Number 2 Creek Waterfalls

Type State Forest, Camp Ground  
Situated in a gully on the edge of the forest, west of Avoca.
Access from Avoca: West 300m on the Pyrenees Hwy [B180] across the Avoca Rv, right [north] 0.5k on
Faraday St which turns left around the recreation reserve to become Vinoca Rd, west 12k past vineyards to the
end of Vinoca Rd (as Waterfalls Track) (last 3k gravel).
Privacy Good: At road end, although exposed to day visitors.
VicRoads 57 G3
Hema 39 C9
Access Conventional
Size 3+ Height 380
Suit: 
Facilities:

Boundary Not
controlled
Firewood Available
Activities
Wineries. Mt Avoca
(730m) 2k 1.5h up the
Pyrenees Walking
Track
Contact DSE
Maryborough
(03)5461 1055
Visit 20/11/01 Ref 627
Site description
An attractive secluded gully surrounded by steep forested hills looking out on rolling farmland.
The grassed clearing is shaded by Yellow Gum, Yellow Box and wattles, backed by Stringybark Messmate and
Red Ironbark with little understory on the rocky slopes. The small gravel car park slopes a little. Tank tap
signed ‘not for drinking’. The waterfall a few metres upstream is seasonal.
5. Pyrenees State Forest : Glenpatrick
Type State Forest, Picnic Ground  
Situated just north of Glenpatrick, south of Mt Avoca, north of Elmhurst.
Access from Elmhurst [B180]: north 10.7k on the Glenpatrick Rd (last 1.2k gravel) (300m after crossing the
cement ford).
Privacy Good: overlooked by a very low use forestry road, near road end
VicRoads 57 G4
Hema 39 C9
Access Conventional
Size 2+
Suit: 
Facilities:

Activities
Boundary Not
controlled
Firewood Available
Warnings Creek
intermittent - bring
drinking water
Contact DSE
Maryborough
(03)5461 1055
Visit 15/05/03
Ref 638
Site description
A small, green, creek side flat well shaded by tall Manna Gums and surrounded by well forested steep slopes.
The adjacent bubbling Glenpatrick Cr can be dry in summer. Facilities include a BBQ and 2 benches on level,
short grass. Caravans and large rigs probably restricted to the high level car park. Nearby is an historic stone
hut (roofless).
6. Glenpatrick : Reserve
Type Reserve,
Recreation Reserve
 
Situated at
Glenpatrick, south of
Mt Avoca, north of
Elmhurst.
VicRoads 57 G4
Hema 39 C9
Access Sealed Road
Size 15+
Suit: 
Facilities:
Boundary Not
controlled
Firewood Limited
Access from Elmhurst [B180]: north 9k on the Glenpatrick Rd, on the left.
Privacy Reasonable: well off but overlooked by a very low use country road.
Site description
Glenpatrick is a small scattered settlement near the head of a secluded valley.
The pleasant historic reserve is now only used for social gatherings (no pitch, no goal posts, no boundary
fence) and is surrounded by massive pines. The whole area is well grassed (slashed) and level. The large
shelter (with fireplace) and WC are mud brick. Old BBQs are broken. Read the sign on the old white shed. White
cockatoos are common.
CFA District N. West Visit 15/03/03 Ref 637
7. Elmhurst : Reserve
Type Reserve, Recreation Reserve  
Situated on the southern edge of Elmhurst, off the Pyrenees Hwy [B180] between Ararat and Avoca.
Signposted opposite the general store, about 700m south
Privacy Good: on town edge, secluded by vegetation; except on sports days
VicRoads 57 E4
Hema 38 C8
Access Sealed Road
Size 10+ Height 290
Suit: 
Facilities:


Boundary Not
controlled
Firewood Limited
Fees $5 per night
Bookings Possible
Contact PO/Store
(03) 5354 8264
Visit 15/03/03
Ref 887
Site description
A pleasant country recreation reserve with ample shade provided by rows of pines and a few oaks over mown,
level grass. Electric BBQ 20c. Wood BBQs all appear broken.
Call at PO/Store for fees(?$5), keys, negotiate shower access.
8. Mt Buangor State Park : Ferntree

Type State Park, Camp Ground  
Situated in a forested gully, west of Ballarat, east of the Grampians.
Access from Ballarat: West 58k on the Western Fwy & Hwy [M8 & A8] (to 12k west of Beaufort), right (north) 9k
on the Ferntree Gully Rd (gravel) (to 400m past bridge and Bailes) picnic ground, right 500m up the signposted
circuit road. Sites signposted off the "out" road
VicRoads 57 E7 Hema 39 D8 Other FCV "Mount Cole State Forest" Access Conventional Size 5 Height 500
Privacy Very good: At end of tourist road, sites well spaced, expect day visitors to the falls.
Suit:  Facilities:
Activities The nature trail to the water fall is
wheel chair accessible.
Boundary Specific sites

Firewood Available
Bookings Advised
Contact Parks Vic
Visit 21/11/01
Ref 619
Site description
A very pleasant, green, attractive camp.
Each of the 5 well dispersed sites has a table, BBQ
and pit fireplace, small level parking and are well
shaded by large Messmate and Blue Gums: wet
sclerophyll forest similar to the Dandenongs.
Access from the camp sites to the toilets and water
tap is steep.
9. Mt Buangor State Park : Middle Creek

Situated on a wooded plain, west of Ballarat, east of the Grampians.
Access from Ballarat: West 58k on the Western Fwy & Hwy [M8 & A8] (to 12k west of Beaufort), right (north)
7km on the Ferntree Gully Rd (good gravel), about 400m past the Park entrance turn left 500m down the Jimmy
Smith Rd (signposted), left 200m on a signposted access road.
Privacy Good: Well off main roads, internal privacy aided by the large size of the camp.
Site description
A pleasant, spacious, grassed, level woodland area near Middle Creek. Reasonable shade from Manna Gums,
River Red Gums and wattles. Backed by forested hills and Mt Cole, facing some farm paddocks. Sites are well
spaced with vegetation between. Fires only in fireplaces (11) - sharing necessary at peak periods. Kangaroos,
wallabies, kookaburras, cockatoos and magpies are common.
A good wet weather camp site on granitic soil, first used by Major Mitchell in 1836.
VicRoads 57 E7
Hema 39 D9
Other FCV "Mt Cole
State Forest"
Access Conventional
Size 25+ Height 405
Suit: 
Facilities:


Activities  
Boundary Not
controlled
Firewood Limited
Contact Parks Vic
Visit 23/11/01
Ref 618
Pyrenees State Forest

No 2 Creek Waterfall camp
Mt Buangor State Park: Ferntree camp

4.3.1 Mt Cole State Forest

11 Mt Cole State Forest Warrak Camp 3.5
12 Mt Cole State Forest Chinaman 3.9
12 Mt Cole State Forest Mugwamp 3.9
13 Mt Cole State Forest The Glut 4.2
14 Mt Cole State Forest Richards 4.5
15 Mt Cole State Forest Ditchfield 4.0
16 Mt Cole State Forest Smiths Bridge 3.4
17 Mt Cole State Forest Fortes 3.7
10. Mt Cole State Forest : Chinaman
Situated near the north-western edge of the Forest, east of Ararat, north-west of Ballarat.
Access from Ararat: East 20k on Warrak Rd (starts as Grano St) to Warrak, continue east 4.6k on the Mt Cole
Rd (half gravel), at Y junction continue east (left) 0.6k on Chinaman Rd. (Signpost obscured; if you see the
cemetery you have passed Chinaman Rd by 200m).
Privacy Good: Well off main roads but site layout designed for car/tent camping forces most to park together
VicRoads 57 E6
Hema 39 D8
Other FCV "Mt Cole
State Forest"
Access Conventional
Size 6+ Height 420
Suit: 
Facilities: :
Activities
Walk to Ben Nevis
(830m) 5k 3hr 1 way
Boundary Parking
fence
Firewood Available
Site description
A pleasant camp tucked into a forested creek valley below the Mt Cole plateau, surrounded by lush Yellow Gum
and Brown stringybark with a wattle understory.
The layout is best suited to car camping: a large fenced grassed area with a single large, gravelled parking
area. Some dispersed fireplace/table sites on the slope down to the creek and dam. Level bush camping is
possible to the south. Facilities include 4 fireplaces and tables, pit toilets, tank water and a stone hut complete
with fireplace. White cockatoos, kookaburras and wrens are common.
A pleasant forested camp popular with trail-bike riders. A good cold weather camp well off main roads.
Contact DSE Beaufort (03) 5349 2404 CFA District N. West Visit 2/09/00 Ref 624
11. Mt Cole State Forest : Warrak Camp

Type State Forest, Informal/unofficial  
Situated near the north-western edge of the Forest, east of Ararat, north-west of Ballarat.
Access from Ararat: East 20k on Warrak Rd (starts as Grano St) to Warrak, continue east 4.6k on Mt Cole Rd
(half gravel), keep right at the Chinaman Rd Y junction to 400m past cemetery, left on an unmaintained
gravelled track 100m across a small gully, left a few metres on the low ridge.
Site description
A small bush camp on a low ridge by the bubbling Buckingham Creek. A small grassed clearing, apparently an
old hut site, well shaded by Yellow Gums and mature wattles and surrounded by lush tall wet sclerophyll forest.
White cockatoos, kookaburras and wrens are common.
The Warrak Camp Picnic Area just up the ridge no longer exists.
Privacy Good: Largely secluded from the forestry road by trees
VicRoads 57 E6
Hema 38 D8 Other
FCV "Mt Cole State
Forest" Access
Height 420
Suit: 
Facilities:  
Activities 
Boundary Not
controlled
Firewood Available
Bookings No: pot
luck
Contact DSE
Beaufort (03) 5349
2404
Visit 2/09/00 Ref 736
12. Mt Cole State Forest : Mugwamp

Situated high up on the Mt Cole plateau, west of Ballarat, off the Mt Cole Rd.
Access from Ballarat: West 44k on the Western Fwy & Hwy [M8 & A8] to Beaufort, right (north) 9k on the
Beaufort-Amphitheatre Rd to Raglin, left (north-west) 1.5k on the Beaufort-Elmhurst Rd, at the Y junction
continue directly on (west) 16k up the Mt Cole Rd (gravel), left (west) 1k on the Mugwamp Track to junction with
Dawson Rock Rd and bridge.
Privacy Reasonable: By a very low use forestry road
VicRoads 57 E6 Hema 39 D9 Other FCV "Mt Cole State Forest" Access Conventional Size 2 Height 920
Suit: Facilities: :  Activities Hang-gliding off nearby Mt Buangor

Boundary Parking fence Firewood Available Bookings No: pot luck
Site description
A small isolated site high on the Mt Cole plateau tucked into the headwaters of the Middle Cr surrounded by
dense forest and bush.
Features a stone hut and small grassed clearing (fenced) but has limited level parking. Wallabies are common,
birds (kookaburras, wrens, etc) plentiful.
Warnings Cold and damp in winter
Contact DSE Beaufort (03) 5349 2404 CFA District S. West Visit 1998 Ref 623
13. Mt Cole State Forest : The Glut

Type State Forest, Camp Ground  
Situated near the southern edge of the Forest, west of Ballarat, off the Beaufort-Elmhurst Rd
Beaufort-Amphitheatre Rd to Raglin, left (north-west) 8.2k on the Beaufort-Elmhurst Rd, keep left (north-west)
3.1k at the Y junction up The Glut Rd (gravel), 1.6k past Richards near the Tunbridges Tk junction.
Privacy Reasonable: by a very low use forestry road

Site description
An attractive grassed clearing (sloping) on a low ridge above Long Gully Creek. Well shaded by Stringybark
with a wattle understory. The small, level parking area is adjacent to facilities (new). Wallabies are common,
birds (kookaburras, wrens, etc) plentiful. Surrounded by lush tall wet sclerophyll forested slopes and fern gully.
VicRoads 57 F6
Hema 39 D9
Other FCV "Mt Cole
State Forest"
Access Conventional
Size 2+ Height 450
Suit: 
Facilities:
 
Activities Three
walking trails. The Glut
scenic reserve is just up
the road
Boundary Parking fence
Firewood Available
Contact DSE Beaufort

(03) 5349 2404 CFA
District S. West
Visit 22/11/01 Ref 795
14. Mt Cole State Forest : Richards

Type State Forest, Camp Ground  
Situated on the southern edge of the Forest, west of Ballarat, off the Beaufort-Elmhurst Rd
Beaufort-Amphitheatre Rd to Raglin, left (north-west) 8.2k on the Beaufort-Elmhurst Rd, keep left (north-west)
1.5k at the Y junction up The Glut Rd (gravel), just after entering the Forest turn left 0.5k on a good gravel
narrow track.
Privacy Very good: at track end well off roads
VicRoads 57 F6
Hema 39 D9 Other FCV "Mt
Cole State Forest"
Access Conventional Size
2+ Height 440
Suit:  Facilities:
 
Activities falls and
Dickman cave upstream
Firewood Available
Contact DSE Beaufort (03)
5349 2404
CFA District S. West Visit
22/11/01
Ref 621
Site description
A very attractive green
camp located by the small
Hill Creek. The large
grassed level camp site is surrounded and shaded by blackwoods and tree ferns and features a large hut and
new facilities, backed by steep hills and Mountain Ash forest. Wallabies are common, birds (kookaburras,
wrens, etc) plentiful.
The level turning circuit is separated from the camp by the creek - designed for tent camping.
15. Mt Cole State Forest : Ditchfield
Type State Forest, Camp Ground  
Situated near the southern edge of the Forest, west of Ballarat, off the Mt Cole Rd.
Beaufort-Amphitheatre Rd to Raglin, left (north-west) 1.5k on the Beaufort-Elmhurst Rd, at the Y junction
continue directly on (west) 10k up the Mt Cole Rd (gravel) (to about 1.5k past Ditchfield Picnic Ground), right
(north) 1k down the Camp Rd, on the left
Privacy Reasonable: Open to a low use forestry road
VicRoads 57 F7
Hema 39 D9
Other FCV "Mt Cole
State Forest"
Access Conventional
Size 3+ Height 690
Suit: 
Facilities:

Activities 
(downstream to falls
and cave)
Boundary Parking
fence
Firewood Available
Bookings No: pot
luck
Contact DSE
Beaufort (03) 5349
2404
Visit 22/11/01 Ref 622
Site description
A pleasant lushly forested site on a level spur half way up to the Mt Cole plateau by the headwaters of Hill
Creek. Well shaded by tall Stringybark and Mountain Ash. Most facilities are new. The parking areas are
constrained and limited. Features a large hut and level, grassed clearing. Wallabies are common, birds
(kookaburras, wrens, etc) plentiful.
16. Mt Cole State Forest : Smiths Bridge

Type State Forest, Picnic Ground  
Situated near the southern edge of the Forest, west of Ballarat, off the Beaufort-Elmhurst Rd
Beaufort-Amphitheatre Rd to Raglin, left (north-west) 9.5k on the Beaufort-Elmhurst Rd (1.3k gravel), on the left
600m after entering the Forest.
Privacy Poor: Open to an occasionally used through road
Site description
A pleasant, large, level grassed site (fenced) shaded by large Manna Gums, backed by forest and facing pine
plantations, by First Creek. Wallabies are common, birds (kookaburras, wrens, etc) plentiful.
VicRoads 57 F6
Hema 38 D9
Other FCV "Mt Cole
State Forest" Access
Conventional
Size 5+ Height 410
Suit: 
Facilities:

Activities 
Boundary Parking

fence
Firewood Available
Bookings No: pot
luck
Contact DSE
Beaufort (03) 5349
2404
CFA District N. West Visit 22/11/01 Ref 796
17. Mt Cole State Forest : Fortes

Situated on the eastern edge of the Forest, west of Ballarat, off the Beaufort-Amphitheatre Rd.
Access from Ballarat: West 44k on the Western Fwy & Hwy [M8 & A8] to Beaufort, right (north) 14.5k on the
Beaufort-Amphitheatre Rd (bypass Raglan, 2k through Chute), left (north-west) 3.3k up the Fortes Rd (gravel),
camp on left 1k after entering the Forest, at the F3 Rd junction.
Privacy Reasonable: most of the site is open to low use forestry roads
VicRoads 57 G6
Hema 39 D9
Other FCV "Mt Cole
State Forest"
Access Conventional
Size 3+ Height 520
Suit: : 
Facilities:

Activities  
Boundary Not
controlled
Firewood Available
Contact DSE Beaufort

(03) 5349 2404
Visit 22/11/01 Ref 620
Site description
A pleasant, well grassed clearing (sloping) with scattered exotics (an old house site) shaded by cypress pines.
Surrounded by a mature pine forest on the lower slopes of Mt Lonarch.
There is limited level parking. Facilities are showing signs of age and limited maintenance.
An old mining area. Also known as Beaufort Plantation within the Mt Lonarch State Forest
4.3 Ballarat

1 Lexton Rest Area 3.2
2 Mount Beckworth Manna Gums 3.8
3 Mount Beckworth Cork Oaks 2.8
4 Mount Beckworth The Dam 3.5
5 Creswick Regional Park Slaty Creek No 1 3.9
8 Bungaree Weigbridge Rest Area 1.9
9 Smythesdale Gardens 2.5
10 Scarsdale Woady Yaloak Rv 4.1
11 Scarsdale Rest Area 3.2
12 Devils Kitchen 2.3
13 Pitfield Streamside Reserve J.C. Stretch Memorial Park 2.9
14 Enfield State Park Surface Point 3.9
15 Blue Bridge Rest Area 3.2
16 Lal Lal Iron Furnace 4.3
17 Lal Lal Lal Lal Falls 2.4
18 Brisbane Ranges NP Boar Gully 4.2
1 Lexton :- Rest Area
Type Road Rest Area, Roadside 
On the Sunraysia Hwy [B220] 4k south east of Lexton, 47k north west of Ballarat. Signposted
Privacy Reasonable: vegetation inhibits observation from nearby highway
VicRoads 58 A6
Hema 39 D9
Access Sealed Road
Size 4+ Height 380
Suit: 
Facilities: 
Boundary Not
controlled
Firewood Available
Visit 15/03/03 Ref 176
Site description
A reasonable rest area developed from a long strip of the old road, shaded by Manna Gum and Peppermint.
Most of the extended roadway slopes but there are a couple of level spots near the bench. Surrounded by bush
and rolling farmland.
2 Mount Beckworth :- Manna Gums

Type State Park, Camp Ground 
Situated 30k north west of Ballarat, 8k south west of Clunes.
VicRoads 58 D7
Hema 39 D10
Other Pamphlet
Access Dry weather
only
Size 3+ Height 410
Suit: 
Facilities: 
Activities Walk to
Mt Beckworth
Boundary Not
controlled
Firewood Available
Bookings No: pot
luck
Contact ParksVic
Creswick (03) 5345
1352
CFA District Central
Visit 14/03/03 Ref
1005
Access from Clunes [C291]: west 900m on the Maryborough Rd [C291], left (south) 4k on the Learmonth Rd
(starts as West St), right (west) 2k on Glendaruel Rd to its end, right (north) 1k on Kierces (Fenton) Rd (gravel),
left 1.3k on Mountain Creek Rd (2 tonne bridge limit, dry weather ford) to the Reserve. Left (south) 1.3k, on the
right.
Privacy Reasonable: just off a low-use tourist road
Site description
Situated on the slopes of Mt Beckworth (634m) in open forest.
The small site features a short circuit road, 2 tables, 1 BBQ and a large Manna Gum.
Best in spring. Can be hot and dry in summer. Rabbits common.
3 Mount Beckworth :- Cork Oaks

Type State Park, Camp Ground 
left 1.3k on Mountain Creek Rd (2 tonne bridge limit, dry weather ford) to the Reserve. Right (north) 3k (narrow,
some washouts), keep left (no sign) just after Bracken Gully picnic ground
Privacy Reasonable, track end well off main roads
VicRoads 58 D7
Hema 39 D10
Access Dry weather
Size 2 + Height 550
Suit: 
Facilities: 
Activities Walk to Mt
Beckworth
Boundary Not
controlled
Firewood Available
Contact ParksVic
Creswick (03) 5345
1352
Visit 14/03/03
Ref 1014
Site description
An open site situated on the steep slopes of Mt Beckworth (634m) surrounded by open forest.
Features a road circuit with 1 table & BBQ but without shade, near a couple of rows of cork trees. Site slopes
steeply. There is a small level area, partially shaded by wattle by the nearby creek bed. Best in spring. Rabbits
common.
4 Mount Beckworth :- The Dam

Type State Park, Camp Ground 
left 1.3k on Mountain Creek Rd (2 tonne bridge limit, dry weather ford) to the Reserve. Half right (north) 0.4k
Privacy Poor: roadside
Site description
An interesting site situated on the slopes of Mt Beckworth (634m) in open forest.
Features 3 dispersed sites, 2 with 1 table & BBQ but without shade on the edge of the shallow dam (dry in
March 2003), one with 5 tables, 1 BBQ and level shaded grass behind a fence - suites tent camping
Best in spring. Rabbits common.
VicRoads 58 D7
Hema 39 D10
Access Dry weather
only
Size 3+ Height 550
Suit: 
Facilities: 
Activities Walk
to Mt Beckworth
Boundary Parking
fence
Firewood Available
Bookings No: pot
luck
Contact ParksVic
Creswick (03) 5345
1352 CFA District
Central Visit 14/03/03
Ref 1013
5 Creswick Regional Park :- Slaty Creek No 1

Type State Park, Camp Ground 
Situated between Ballarat and Creswick.
Access from Ballarat [M8]: North 14k on the Midland Hwy [A300] nearly to Creswick, thence sharp right south-
east along the Bungaree (Melbourne) Rd [C291] 1.8k, right south 4k on Slaty Creek Rd (gravel, narrow
sections). (Slaty Cr Rd swings left just within view of the Camp Ground)
Privacy Reasonable: off main roads but expect day trippers
VicRoads 58 G9
Hema 39 E11
Other Victoria's
Great Outdoors, pg
52
Access Conventional
Size 4+ Height 440
Suit: 
Facilities: 

Activities 
Boundary Not
controlled
Firewood Available
Bookings No: pot
luck
Contact Parks Vic
(03) 5345 1352
Visit 17/03/03
Ref 295
Site description
Creek side camping in open forest and gold mining area. The vehicle camping area (1 bench 2 BBQs, 1 broken)
is on both sides of the road just across the creek (intermittent) from the day area (WC, shelter, 3 benches 2
BBQs (1 broken)). Reasonable shade from white trunked Manna Gums, Peppermints and willows over level
gravely flood banks, surrounded by low rolling forested hills.
Prolific bird life including kookaburras, magpies, rosellas and fantails.
Short term camping only. Prefer you bring firewood and drinking water.
Best in spring. Hot, dry and dusty in summer.

east along the Bungaree (Melbourne) Rd [C291] 1.8k, right south 4.3k on the Slaty Creek Rd (gravel, narrow
sections). 300m past the turn-off to Slaty Creek No 1 cross a cement ford and turn right 150m on an unsigned
gravel road
Privacy Good: track end, glimpse from overlooking low use tourist road.
VicRoads 58 G9
Hema 39 E11
Access Conventional
Size 4+ Height 440
Suit: 
Facilities: 
Activities 
Boundary Not
controlled
Firewood Available
Contact Parks Vic (03)
5345 1352
Visit 17/03/03
Ref 512
Site description
Level creek side camping in a narrow gully situated in open forest and gold mining area. Reasonable shade
from white trunked Manna Gums and Peppermints over level gravely flood banks extending up Mopoke Creek,
surrounded by low rolling forested hills.
More secluded than Slaty Cr No.1. Features 1 bench and 2 BBQs (1 broken)
Prolific bird life including kookaburras and fantails.
Short term camping only. Prefer you bring firewood and drinking water. Creek is dry in summer.

east along the Bungaree (Melbourne) Rd [C291] 1.8k, right south 5k on the Slaty Creek Rd (gravel, narrow
sections). Left 0.4k to another cement ford and the camp.
Privacy Good: observable from a very low use tourist road
VicRoads 58 G9
Hema 39 E11
Access Conventional
Size 3+ Height 450
Suit: 
Facilities: 
Activities 
Boundary Not
controlled
Firewood Available
Bookings No: pot
luck
Contact ParksVic,
Creswick (03) 5345
1352
Visit 17/03/03
Ref 862
Site description
Creek side camping in a gully situated in open forest and historic gold mining area. Reasonable shade from
white trunked Manna Gums and Peppermints over level gravely flood banks, partially grassed, surrounded by
low rolling forested hills. Features 2 benches and 2 BBQs (both broken). Short term camping only. Prefer you
bring firewood and drinking water. Creek is dry in summer.
Prolific bird life including kookaburras and fantails.
8 Bungaree Weigbridge
Type Road Rest Area, Roadside 
Situated on the southern side of the Western Freeway [M8] 15k east of Ballarat. Signposted. Only accessible to
traffic travelling from Melbourne to Ballarat.
Privacy Poor: within site and sound of the busy freeway and railway
VicRoads 77 B2
Hema 39 E11
Access Sealed Road
Size 6
Suit: 
Facilities:

Boundary Not
controlled
Firewood No
Bookings No: pot
luck
Visit 1/12/03
Ref 86
Site description
A level, sealed loop road with no shade or shrubs - very open. Well grassed (mown). Overlooks open paddocks
and distant Bungaree.
A poor rest area, but the only one between Melbourne and Ballarat.
9 Smysthesdale Gardens
Type Reserve, Picnic Ground 
Situated on the northern side of Smysthesdale (19k south west of Ballarat on the Glenelg Hwy [B160]), west
300m on Gardens Rd
Privacy Poor: overlooked by road and a couple of houses
VicRoads 76 C4, 260
H9 Hema 39 E10
Access Sealed Road
Size 8+ Height 180
Suit 
Facilities:

Boundary Not
controlled
Firewood No
Site description
A sloping, grassed
(mown) reserve
surrounded by mature
pines. Showers
locked. One BBQ
(broken).
Visit 2/12/03 Ref 1
10 Scarsdale: Woady Yaloak Rv

Type Reserve, Picnic Ground 
Situated west of Scarsdale by the Woady Yaloak Rv (Smythey Cr)
Access: From Ballarat 24k south west on the Glenelg Hwy to the Lismore Rd [C171] junction, right (west) 600m
on the Old Glenelg Hwy, on the right just before the bridge.
Privacy Reasonable: some sites secluded from the country road by vegetation.
Site description
Pleasant, level creek flats well shaded by
rows of mature pines. By the small Woady
Yaloak Rv (Smythey Cr) with a small pool
maintained by an old ford to provide a local
swimming hole. Backed by farm land and
pine plantations. 4 benches, 5 BBQs.
A little overgrown and neglected.
The Old Glenelg Hwy continues south 800m
to rejoin the Glenelg Hwy at the Rest Area.
VicRoads 76 C4
Hema 39 E10
Access Sealed Road
Size 4+ Height 15
Suit:  
Facilities: 
Activities:
Boundary Not
controlled
Firewood Limited
Bookings No: pot
luck

Visit 2/12/03
Ref 222
11 Scarsdale Rest Area

Type Road Rest Area, Roadside 
Just off the Glenelg Hwy [B160] 25k sou-west of Ballarat (near the 135km post)
Privacy Reasonable: well off the highway secluded by some bush, open to the Old Glenelg Hwy
VicRoads 76 C4
Hema 39 E10 Access
Sealed Road Size 4+
Height 172
Suit 
Facilities: 
Boundary Not
controlled
Firewood Available
Bookings No: pot
luck
Visit 2/12/03
Ref 172
Site description
A large level area surrounded by scrub situated in a shallow valley (creek usually dry) . Some sites shaded by
Peppermint and Messmate. A little overgrown and neglected, but reasonable for a rest area. The Old Glenelg
Hwy runs north 800m to the old bridge.
12 Devils Kitchen - Geological Reserve
Type Reserve, informal bush camp 
Situated south-west of Ballarat.
Access from Ballarat
[A8]: South-west 22k
on the Glenelg
[B160] Hwy to
Scarsdale, left
(south) 6k on the
Lismore Rd [C171],
right (west) 2.9k on
the Piggoreet-Linton
Rd. Left 400m on the
Devils Kitchen Lane
OR continue on down
200m to the river.
VicRoads 76 B5
Hema 39 F10 Access
Sealed Size 4+
Privacy: Poor - very
open
Suit: 
Facilities: 
Boundary Not
controlled
Firewood Limited
Bookings No: pot
luck
Site description
Two reserves in the
Woadly Yallock River
(small) gorge
surrounded by
volcanic cliffs.
The site at the end of
the lane is secluded
from traffic but rough
with only a couple of
level spots.
The reserve by the
road is grassed
(rarely slashed).
Both are open with
no shade. The river
may be dry.
Poor bush camping,
except for
geologists.
(There may be a picnic ground by the Woady Yallock River off Ryans Rd 5k south &/or in the Mt Erip State
Forest to the south west)
CFA District Central Visit 2/12/03 Ref 639
13 Pitfield Streamside Reserve :- J.C. Stretch Memorial Park
Type Reserve, Picnic Ground 
Situated south-west
of Ballarat by the
Rokewood-Skipton
Rd [C143] at the
Woadly Yalloak River
bridge
Privacy Poor:
overlooked by road
VicRoads 76 B6
Hema 39 F10 Access
Sealed Road Size 3+
Height 300
Suit 
Facilities: 
Boundary Not
controlled
Firewood Limited
Bookings No: pot
luck
Visit 19/03/03 Ref
872
Site description
A pleasant oasis in the flat lava-plain country. Located in a shallow ravine is a well grassed (mown) creek side
flat with some shade from Candlebark and Manna Gum. Three benches, a shelter with fireplace. Woadly
Yalloak River is a reliable water source but quality is suspect. Some rubbish.
14 Enfield State Park :- Surface Point

Type State Park, Camp Ground 
Situated south of Ballarat.
Access from Ballarat: South 29k on the Ballarat-Colac Rd [C146] past Enfield, right (west) 3.5k on Misery Creek
Rd (gravel). Short access road signed on the right.
Alternatively 4k east on the Berringa-Misery Creek Rd (gravel) off the Newtown-Berringa Rd.
Privacy Good: well
off main roads,
secluded from
Misery Creek Rd by
terrain
VicRoads 76 E6
Hema 39 F10
Access
Conventional
Size 3+ Height 310
Suit 
Facilities:
Activities:
Boundary Parking
fence
Firewood Available
Bookings No, pot
luck
Site description
A small, level, gravel, fenced car
park on the nose of a ridge just
above the picnic facilities and the
Misery Creek (often dry). The
picnic ground (5 tables, 2 BBQs)
slopes. Thin shade provided by
Messmate, Broad-leaved and
Narrow-leaved Peppermint, Manna
Gum and rare Yarra Gum with
some Silver wattle understory.
Surrounded by rolling forested
hills. Spring wildflowers including
grevillea and 31 varieties of
orchids. Kookaburras, currawong,
rosella, wrens, kangaroos, wallaby
and frogs are common with koala
present. A pleasant, quiet camp.
Remains of gold mining, including
shafts, water races and sluiced
areas.
Warnings Bring water. Can be cold in winter, hot in summer. Keep to tracks - beware of mine shafts.
Contact Parks Vic CFA District Central Visit 1/12/03 Ref 760
15 Blue Bridge: Rest Area

Type Road Rest Area, Roadside 
On the Midland Hwy [A300] 64k nor-west of Geelong, 33k sou-east of Ballarat.
Privacy Reasonable: 50m off the busy highway, some sites secluded by trees.
VicRoads 76 H5
Hema 39 F11
Access Sealed Road
Size 4+ Height 430
Suit 
Facilities: 
Boundary Not
controlled
Firewood Limited
Bookings No, pot
luck

Visit 3/12/03
Ref 175
Site description
An extended length of old highway, sealed and reasonably level. Shade from Messmate, Peppermint and
wattles.
16 Lal Lal:- Iron Furnace
Type Crown Reserve, Picnic Ground 
Situated south-east of Ballarat, north-west of Geelong:
Access from Ballarat: South-east 22k on the Midland Hwy [A300] to Clarendon (65k north-west of Geelong), left
(north-east) 4k on the Lal Lal Rd, continue over the railway line 0.8k on the Lal Lal-Harris Rd, right (east) 4.7k
on Ironmine Rd to its end. (The last 2k is gravel, the last 1k steep with switchbacks. Keep left at track junctions
on entering and leaving).
Privacy Good: road
end in remote forest,
expect day trippers
VicRoads 77 B4
Hema 39 E11 Access
Height 450
Suit: 
Facilities:

Boundary Parking
fence
Firewood Available
Bookings No,
Visit 3/12/03
Ref 535
Activities: Short, graded tracks (with explanation boards) to historic pig iron furnace ruin, iron mines and outlook over
Bengal Dam and Moorabool Rv valley.
Site description
A level, gravel, fenced car park in the centre of a 75 acre Special Purpose Reserve. Thin shade from
Peppermint and Messmate. 4 benches, 3 BBQs. Surrounded by steep forested slopes. Springtime displays pink
and white heaths, orchids and other wildflowers. A pleasant, quiet camp.
17 Lal Lal Falls

Type Local Government Reserve, Picnic Ground 
Situated south-east of
Ballarat, north-west of
Geelong:
Access from Ballarat:
South-east 22k on the
Midland Hwy [A300] to
Clarendon (65k north-west
of Geelong), left (north-
east) 4k on the Lal Lal Rd,
continue over the railway
line 3.1k on the Lal Lal-
Harris and Falls Rd (stay
on the bitumen), signed on
the left
Privacy Poor: adjacent and exposed to low use country
road.
VicRoads 77 B4 Hema 39 E11 Access Sealed Road Size
3+
Suit 
Facilities: 
Firewood Limited
Bookings No, pot luck
CFA District Central Visit 4/12/03 Ref 560
Site description
A level, gravelled, fenced car park just off the road and
adjacent to a large reserve, surrounded by open rolling
farmland. No shade to the car park. The reserve is well
grassed (roughly slashed) and surrounded by mature
pines. 5 tables and BBQs (burnt through).
The picturesque Lal Lal falls, 200m across the reserve,
are best after heavy rain.
18 Brisbane Ranges NP :- Boar Gully

Type National Park, Camp Ground  
Situated high on the Brisbane Ranges, south-east of Bacchus Marsh, south of Ballan.
Access from Ballan [M8]: South 8k on the Geelong-Ballan Rd [C141], left (east) 5.5k on the Brisbane Ranges
Rd. Just after the gravel starts and just inside the Park boundary (before the Thompsons Rd junction) turn
south down a signposted, narrow, gravelled, potholed track along the ridge line for 0.5k to its end.
Privacy Good: well off a low use country road surrounded by bush.
VicRoads 77 F6
Hema 36 D2
Access Conventional
Size 5+2 Height 430
Suit: 
Facilities:
Boundary Parking
fence
Firewood NO-BYO
Fees $9.20 pn
Bookings Required
Site description
Dispersed designated
parking areas along
the road end, located
in a saucer valley
near the NW edge of
the Brisbane National
Park. Site layout
suites car/tent
camping rather than
motorhomes. Parking
layout inhibits long
rigs.
Light shade through a
thin canopy is
provided to all sites,
most of which have a
pleasant outlook over
an old dam. The
surrounding low,
forested ridges
provide some wind
protection.
A pleasant, quiet
camp but potentially
hot and dry in
summer and cold in
winter.
Surrounding
vegetation is typical
of goldfields/quartz
soil: stunted Grey
Box, Peppermint and
Red Ironbark, with
minimal ground
vegetation except
grass trees, although
spring reveals the vast range of flora in the area. Kangaroos and wallabies are common, koalas may be
present. There is a wide range of birds. Yabbies are in the adjacent dam.
Activities Walking trails (2.5hr to Little River Picnic Ground), Yabbie fishing, bird watching, wildflowers
Warnings 2 sites (1&2) lack fire places.
Contact Parks Vic CFA District Central Visit 21/05/00 Ref 260

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Contents

4.1 Golden Triangle ........................................................................................................................................................ 3

Ref Site Sub Site Rating

2. Mt Korong Scenic Reserve

3. Ryan Cr : Rest Area

4. Kooyoora State Park : Melville Caves

7. Kara-Kara State Park : Teddington

9. Tarnagulla Historic Reserve

Activities: tennis, historic ruins. Yabbies in reservoir, reportedly

12. Talbot State Forest : Stony Creek

Ref Site Sub Site Rating

2. Greater Bendigo National Park: Mulga Dam

3. Runnymeade Highway Park

4. Goornong: Englishs Rd Reserve

CFA District N. East

CFA District N. East

6. Huntly:- Huntly-Epsom Lions Park

8. Greater Bendigo National Park: Shadbolt

9. Greater Bendigo National Park: Notley

10. Wellsford State Forest: Dodder

11. Wellsford State Forest: Mahers Dam

Contact DSE Bendigo

12. Wellsford State Forest: Gunyah

Facilities: Activities:  Nature study

Ref Site Sub Site Rating

14. Lockwood South: Happy Jacks Streamside Reserve

15. Bridgewater on Loddon: The Mill

16. Newbridge: River Reserve

17. Laanecoorie: River Reserve

18. Maldon Historic Reserve: Butts Reserve

Contact Parks Vic

19. Muckleford State Forest: Red White & Blue Mine

Warnings Potentially hot

20. Newstead: River Reserve

21. Castlemain: Jessie Kennedy Reserve

CFA District N. West

22. Vaughan Mineral Springs: Caravan Park

VicRoads 59 E4 Hema 39 C11 Access Sealed Road Size 14 Height 270

23. Warburton Bridge Reserve

24. Harcourt: Ellerys

25. Harcourt: Faraday

Privacy Very poor: open to adjacent busy highway. Overlooked by house.

CFA District N. West

26. Mt Alexander Regional Park: Koala Park

CFA District N. West

28. Heathcote-Graytown NP: Dargile Plantation

Loddon River below

Ref Site Sub Site Rating

2. Moonambel: Mountain Creek

3. Avoca : Avoca River

4. Pyrenees State Forest : Number 2 Creek Waterfalls

8. Mt Buangor State Park : Ferntree

Boundary Specific sites

9. Mt Buangor State Park : Middle Creek

Pyrenees State Forest

Mt Buangor State Park: Ferntree camp

Ref Site Sub Site Rating

11. Mt Cole State Forest : Warrak Camp

12. Mt Cole State Forest : Mugwamp

Suit: Facilities: :  Activities Hang-gliding off nearby Mt Buangor

13. Mt Cole State Forest : The Glut

Privacy Reasonable: by a very low use forestry road

Contact DSE Beaufort

14. Mt Cole State Forest : Richards