Minnehaha Falls Campground: Free Camping by a Waterfall in South Gippsland

Tucked away in the lush green hills of South Gippsland, Minnehaha Falls offers one of Victoria’s most picturesque and beloved free camping experiences. This stunning spot, located in the small locality of Hiawatha near Yarram, is a true natural treasure. The campground is set on a beautiful grassy flat right next to the Albert River, with the main attraction being the magnificent waterfall itself, which cascades over a 5-metre rock face into a deep, clear swimming hole below. It’s an incredibly popular destination on warm weekends, where visitors can enjoy sliding down the smooth rock face of the falls into the refreshing pool, or simply relax on the surrounding lawns.

The campground provides a rustic, back-to-basics bush experience perfect for self-sufficient travellers. While there are basic non-flushing toilets, campers must bring their own drinking water and take all their rubbish home with them to preserve the pristine environment. The sites are undesignated, offering plenty of space for tents and small camper trailers to find a spot with a view. The area is proudly pet-friendly, making it a fantastic getaway for the whole family. The access via the unsealed Albert River Road is generally suitable for 2WD vehicles in dry weather. For those seeking an unforgettable free camping adventure that combines the thrill of a natural water slide with the tranquility of a forest setting, Minnehaha Falls is an unmissable Gippsland gem.

Campground Information

• Name: Minnehaha Falls Campground
• Address: Albert River Road, Hiawatha, Victoria 3971, Australia
• GPS Coordinates: -38.5198,146.4648
• Website: Managed by Wellington Shire Council (no direct website).

Features & Rules

• Location: Scenic bush setting on the Albert River, directly adjacent to Minnehaha Falls.
• Site Suitable For: Tents and small camper trailers.
• Road Access: Unsealed road, generally 2WD accessible in dry weather.
• Site Surface: Grass and natural earth.
• Camping Permitted: Yes, free camping is permitted.
• Maximum Overnight Stays: No specified limit, but short stays are encouraged.
• Facilities: Non-flushing toilets and fire pits.
• Potable Water: No. You must bring your own drinking water.
• Mobile Phone Coverage: Very limited to non-existent.
• Onsite Public Toilets: Yes, basic non-flushing toilets are available.
• Rubbish Bins: No. All rubbish must be taken with you.
• Open Fires: Permitted in existing fire pits, subject to seasonal fire bans.
• Generator Use: Permitted, with consideration for other campers.
• Number of Sites Available: Several undesignated, unpowered sites.
• Essentials to Bring: Drinking water, firewood, rubbish bags, and toilet paper.
• Pet Friendly: Yes, dogs are permitted on a leash.
• Fishing: Possible in the Albert River.
• Short Walks: A short track leads to the top of the falls.

Local Amenities & Attractions

• Local Pubs:
  • Yarram Club Hotel (Yarram) – approx. 25 km
  • Commercial Hotel (Yarram) – approx. 25 km
• Places to Eat:
  • Various cafes, bakeries, and takeaways in Yarram – approx. 25 km
• Local Attractions:
  • Minnehaha Falls & Swimming Hole – on-site
  • Tarra Bulga National Park – approx. 35 km
  • Historic town of Yarram – approx. 25 km

Nearby Parks & Services

• Nearest Caravan Parks:
  • Yarram Holiday Park – approx. 25 km
• Nearest Alternate Free Camps:
  • White Woman’s Waterhole (Won Wron) – approx. 30 km
• Nearest Dump Points:
  • Yarram Holiday Park (check for public access/fee) – approx. 25 km
• Nearest Petrol Station: Yarram – approx. 25 km.
• Nearest Drinking Water Resupply: Public taps in Yarram – approx. 25 km.
• Nearest Public Toilets: On-site (basic). Flushing toilets in Yarram.

Seasonal Weather Forecast

• Summer (Dec-Feb): Warm and generally pleasant, perfect for swimming. Average maximum temperatures are around 24°C.
• Autumn (Mar-May): Mild, sunny days and cool nights. A beautiful time to visit. Average maximums range from 16°C to 22°C.
• Winter (Jun-Aug): Cool and often wet, with cold nights. The waterfall is at its most powerful. Average maximums are around 13°C to 14°C.
• Spring (Sep-Nov): Mild and becoming warmer, with the surrounding forest lush and green. Average maximums range from 16°C to 20°C.