Nestled at the foothills of Victoria’s highest peak, Mountain Creek Campground is a free, Parks Victoria-managed site that serves as the primary base camp for hikers preparing to conquer Mount Bogong. Located a short drive from the picturesque town of Mount Beauty in the Kiewa Valley, this campground is a hub of activity for adventurers, bushwalkers, and nature lovers. The site is spread across a large, open grassy area alongside Mountain Creek, offering a scenic and tranquil environment surrounded by the towering peaks of the Alpine National Park. Its easy 2WD access makes it a popular and accessible choice for a wide range of camping setups, from tents and swags to campervans and small caravans.
The main allure of Mountain Creek is its direct access to the Staircase and Eskdale Spur walking tracks, the two most popular routes to the summit of Mount Bogong. Hikers often arrive the day before their trek to acclimatise and get an early start. Beyond the epic Bogong climb, the area offers more leisurely pursuits. The gentle sound of the creek provides a soothing backdrop for a relaxing camp, and the nearby Fainter Falls offers a beautiful short walk. The campground itself is equipped with basic but well-maintained facilities, including non-flush toilets and shared fire pits. As it is situated within a national park, strict rules apply, particularly regarding pets and firewood collection. Campers must be self-sufficient, bringing their own drinking water and taking all rubbish home. For those seeking an alpine adventure, whether it’s a challenging summit attempt or a peaceful weekend in the mountains, Mountain Creek Campground is the perfect starting point.
Mountain Creek Campground – VIC Location Map
Mountain Creek Campground
- Address: Mountain Creek Road, Tawonga VIC 3699
- GPS Coordinates: -36.70024, 147.25221
- Location: A large, grassy campground at the trailhead for the Mount Bogong summit walks.
- Site Suitable For: Tents, swags, camper trailers, and small-to-medium-sized caravans and motorhomes.
- Road Access: Good. 2WD accessible via a well-maintained unsealed road.
- Site Surface: Mostly grass.
- Camping Permitted: Yes.
- Maximum Overnight Stays: Check Parks Victoria for current information.
- Number of Powered Sites: 0.
- Number of Un-powered Sites: Numerous unmarked sites are available.
Facilities
- Picnic Tables: Yes, some are available.
- Potable Water: No. You must bring your own or treat water from the creek.
- Mobile Phone Coverage: Very limited to non-existent.
- TV Reception: No.
- Onsite Public Toilets: Yes, non-flush pit toilets are provided.
- Rubbish Bins: No. This is a carry-in, carry-out facility.
- Open Fires: Permitted in designated fireplaces only, subject to fire restrictions. BYO firewood is essential as collection is not permitted.
- Generator Use: Permitted, but considerate use is encouraged.
- Number of Sites Available: Not individually marked, but it is a large area.
Activities & Important Information
- Essentials to Bring: Drinking water, firewood, hiking gear (including maps and safety equipment), and rubbish bags.
- Pet Friendly: No. Pets are not permitted as it is located within the Alpine National Park.
- Fishing: Possible in the nearby creek for small trout. A Victorian fishing licence is required.
- Short Walks: Fainter Falls is a pleasant walk nearby. The main attraction is the challenging full-day hike to the summit of Mount Bogong.
Local Amenities
The nearest town with comprehensive services is Mount Beauty, approximately 15-20 minutes away.
Pubs & Places to Eat
- Settlers Tavern: Approximately 15 km away in Tawonga South.
- West Peak Hotel: Approximately 17 km away in Mount Beauty.
- Crank Handle Brewery: Approximately 17 km away in Mount Beauty, offering craft beer and food.
Local Attractions
- Mount Bogong Summit Walk: The primary reason most people visit the area.
- Fainter Falls: A beautiful waterfall accessible via a short walking track.
- Kiewa Valley: A stunningly scenic valley perfect for a leisurely drive.
Camping & Services
- Nearest Caravan Parks: Mount Beauty Holiday Centre & Caravan Park (approx. 17 km).
- Next Free Camps: Other smaller rest areas are available in the region, but this is the main one for this area.
- Nearest Dump Points: Mount Beauty.
- Nearest Petrol Station: Mount Beauty.
- Drinking Water Resupply: Mount Beauty.
- Nearest Public Toilets (Flush): Available in the town of Mount Beauty.
Seasonal Weather Forecast
Note: This is an alpine environment. Weather is unpredictable and can change extremely quickly. Snow can fall at any time of year on the summit.
- Summer (Dec-Feb): The most popular time for hiking. Days can be warm, but conditions on the mountain can still be cold and windy.
- Autumn (Mar-May): Generally stable weather with cool days and cold nights. A beautiful time to visit as the valley foliage changes colour.
- Winter (Jun-Aug): Very cold. The campground may be accessible, but the mountain will be covered in snow and is only suitable for experienced and specially equipped alpine hikers/skiers.
- Spring (Sep-Nov): Conditions are variable and snow will still be present on the mountain’s upper slopes. The track can be wet and muddy.