Mount Franklin Reserve Camping | Free Camping in a Volcano Crater Near Daylesford

For a truly unique and memorable Australian camping experience, set up camp inside the crater of an extinct volcano at Mount Franklin Reserve. This magnificent and popular free campground offers a spectacular natural setting, conveniently located right in the heart of Victoria’s famous spa country, just a short drive from the bustling towns of Daylesford and Hepburn Springs. The reserve is a geological marvel, with the campground nestled on the flat floor of the crater, surrounded by a dense canopy of conifers and native trees that line the crater rim. This creates a wonderfully sheltered and picturesque environment, making it a favourite for families, couples, and travellers seeking a budget-friendly base to explore the region.

The reserve provides a classic, back-to-basics bush camping experience. The unpowered sites are spread across a large, grassy area, allowing campers to find their own perfect spot under the shade of the towering trees. While facilities are simple, they are well-maintained, adding to the charm for those looking for an authentic escape. The main activity within the reserve is the scenic walk to the summit of the crater rim, which rewards hikers with breathtaking panoramic views across the surrounding plains and volcanic cones of the Central Highlands. The reserve is also an ideal launchpad for discovering the wider region’s attractions. Indulge in the mineral springs and spa treatments of Hepburn, browse the eclectic shops and acclaimed restaurants of Daylesford, or explore the historic gold rush towns of Castlemaine and Maldon. For a free camp that delivers an unforgettable location, natural beauty, and proximity to world-class attractions, Mount Franklin Reserve is an absolute must-visit destination.

Campground Information

• Name: Mount Franklin Reserve
• Address: 4 Powells Ln, Mount Franklin VIC 3461

Location Coordinates

• GPS: -37.2690, 144.1530

Website

• Website: This is a free campground managed by Parks Victoria. Information can be found on the Parks Victoria website.

Location Map

Site Details

• Location: Inside the crater of an extinct volcano, in a state reserve.
• Site Suitable For: Caravans, Motorhomes, Camper Trailers, Tents. Access road can be narrow.
• Road Access: Sealed road to the entrance, then a narrow gravel road into the crater.
• Site Surface: Grass and dirt. Can get boggy after rain.
• Camping Permitted: Yes, free camping.
• Maximum Overnight Stays: Please observe Parks Victoria guidelines.
• Facilities: Non-flush toilets, picnic tables, wood BBQs/fire pits.
• Potable Water: No. You must bring your own drinking water.
• Mobile Phone Coverage: Patchy. Service is better on the crater rim.
• Onsite Public Toilets: Yes, non-flush (pit) toilets.
• Rubbish Bins: No. This is a carry-in, carry-out site.
• Open Fires: Permitted in designated fire pits only, subject to seasonal fire restrictions. BYO firewood.
• Generator Use: Permitted during designated hours. Be considerate of other campers.
• Number of Sites Available: Unmarked sites, can accommodate a large number of campers.
• Essentials to Bring: Drinking water, firewood, toilet paper, rubbish bags.
• Pet Friendly: Yes, pets are permitted on a lead.

Activities

• Fishing: Not applicable.
• Short Walks: Excellent walk to the summit/crater rim for panoramic views.
• Picnicking: A popular day-use area with beautiful picnic spots.

Local Amenities

• Local Pubs:
  • Farmers Arms Hotel (Daylesford) – Approx. 10 km
  • The Daylesford Hotel – Approx. 10 km
  • The Old Hepburn Hotel (Hepburn Springs) – Approx. 12 km
• Places to Eat:
  • Extensive range of world-class cafes, bakeries, and restaurants in Daylesford – Approx. 10 km
• Local Attractions:
  • Daylesford Town Centre & Lake Daylesford – Approx. 10 km
  • Hepburn Bathhouse & Spa – Approx. 12 km
  • Lavandula Swiss Italian Farm – Approx. 10 km
  • The Convent Gallery Daylesford – Approx. 10 km
• Nearest Caravan Parks:
  • Daylesford Holiday Park – Approx. 10 km
  • Jubilee Lake Holiday Park (Daylesford) – Approx. 12 km
• Next Free Camps:
  • Warburtons Bridge Campground (Glenluce) – Approx. 15 km
  • Vaughan Mineral Springs (day use, limited camping) – Approx. 18 km
• Nearest Dump Points:
  • Daylesford Public Dump Point (at Victoria Park) – Approx. 10 km
• Nearest Petrol Station:
  • Daylesford – Approx. 10 km
• Drinking Water Resupply:
  • Available at the Daylesford Visitor Information Centre.
• Public Toilets:
  • Available onsite (non-flush). Full facilities in Daylesford.

Seasonal Weather Forecast

• Summer (Dec-Feb): Warm and generally pleasant, with cool evenings, averaging 12-26°C.
• Autumn (Mar-May): Mild, sunny days and cool nights, famous for stunning autumn foliage, averaging 7-20°C.
• Winter (Jun-Aug): Cold and crisp, with frequent frosts and occasional light snow, averaging 2-10°C.
• Spring (Sep-Nov): Cool to mild with colourful gardens, but weather can be very changeable, averaging 5-17°C.