Grannys Flat Campground: Free Riverside Camping in the Historic Howqua Hills

Nestled in the heart of the Victorian High Country, Grannys Flat is a magnificent free campground that perfectly captures the spirit of the region. Located in the Howqua Hills Historic Area, this spacious reserve is set on stunning grassy flats right beside the crystal-clear Howqua River. It’s a place steeped in the history of gold miners and mountain cattlemen, offering a truly authentic bush experience just a short drive from the charming town of Jamieson. The campground is incredibly popular with families, fishing enthusiasts, and 4WD adventurers, providing a beautiful and serene base to explore the surrounding state forest and Alpine National Park. The large, open areas offer plenty of room for all types of camping setups, from tents to caravans, with many spots offering direct access and views of the beautiful river.

The Howqua River is the centrepiece of a stay at Grannys Flat, with its clear, cool waters providing the perfect spot for a summer swim, a leisurely kayak, or trying to catch a prized High Country trout. The campground is well-serviced for a free site, with non-flushing toilets and numerous fire pits available for use. As a State Forest campground, it is proudly pet-friendly, allowing you to bring your dog along for the adventure. The access track from the Jamieson-Licola Road is unsealed and features some steep sections, making it more suited to 4WDs and high-clearance vehicles, which helps preserve its sense of seclusion. For a memorable holiday that combines breathtaking scenery, rich Australian history, and fantastic recreational opportunities, Grannys Flat is one of the High Country’s premier free camping destinations.

Campground Information

• Name: Grannys Flat Campground
• Address: Jamieson-Licola Road, Howqua Hills, Victoria 3723, Australia
• GPS Coordinates: -37.290409,146.211594
• Website: Managed by Parks Victoria (no direct website for the campground).

Features & Rules

• Location: Large, grassy flats on the Howqua River in the Victorian High Country.
• Site Suitable For: Tents, camper trailers, and off-road caravans.
• Road Access: Unsealed track with steep sections. 4WD or high-clearance 2WD recommended.
• Site Surface: Grass and natural earth.
• Camping Permitted: Yes, free camping is permitted. No bookings required.
• Maximum Overnight Stays: Up to 28 days.
• Facilities: Non-flushing toilets, picnic tables, and fire pits.
• Potable Water: No. You must bring your own drinking water or treat river water.
• Mobile Phone Coverage: 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 provided fire pits, subject to seasonal fire bans.
• Generator Use: Permitted, with consideration for other campers.
• Number of Sites Available: Numerous undesignated, unpowered sites.
• Essentials to Bring: Drinking water, firewood, rubbish bags, and toilet paper.
• Pet Friendly: Yes, dogs are permitted on a leash.
• Fishing: Excellent trout fishing in the Howqua River.
• Short Walks: Informal walks along the river and access to 4WD tracks.

Local Amenities & Attractions

• Local Pubs:
  • Courthouse Hotel (Jamieson) – approx. 8 km
  • Jamieson Brewery and Grill – approx. 8 km
  • Kevington Hotel – approx. 20 km
• Places to Eat:
  • Various cafes and eateries in Jamieson – approx. 8 km
• Local Attractions:
  • Howqua River & 4WD Tracks
  • Historic town of Jamieson – approx. 8 km
  • Lake Eildon National Park

Nearby Parks & Services

• Nearest Caravan Parks:
  • Jamieson Caravan Park – approx. 8 km
  • Howqua Valley Holiday Park – approx. 25 km
• Nearest Alternate Free Camps:
  • Other flats along the Howqua River (e.g., Sheepyard Flat, Frys Flat).
• Nearest Dump Points:
  • Mansfield Public Dump Point (near Visitor Information Centre) – approx. 50 km
• Nearest Petrol Station: Jamieson – approx. 8 km.
• Nearest Drinking Water Resupply: Public taps in Jamieson – approx. 8 km.
• Nearest Public Toilets: On-site (basic). Flushing toilets in Jamieson.

Seasonal Weather Forecast

• Summer (Dec-Feb): Warm to hot days with cool mountain nights. Perfect for swimming. Average maximum temperatures in nearby Mansfield are around 28°C.
• Autumn (Mar-May): Mild, sunny days and crisp nights with stunning autumn colours. Average maximums range from 16°C to 25°C.
• Winter (Jun-Aug): Cold, with frosty nights and potential for snow on surrounding peaks. Roads can become slippery or impassable. Average maximums are around 12°C to 14°C.
• Spring (Sep-Nov): Cool and becoming milder. The river can be high from snowmelt. Average maximums range from 16°C to 23°C.