Discover the quiet charm of authentic bush camping at Harrops Hill Camp Ground, a free, informal camping area located in the state forest near Howes Creek. Situated along the unsealed Walshs Road, this site offers a fantastic back-to-basics experience for those looking to escape the crowds and immerse themselves in nature. It is an ideal spot for self-sufficient campers, 4WD enthusiasts, and anyone seeking a convenient base from which to explore the Howes Creek inlet of Lake Eildon and the surrounding high country.

The campground is comprised of several natural, relatively flat clearings dotted amongst the native eucalypt forest. This dispersed layout provides a good sense of privacy and space, making it suitable for everything from a solo swag to a family with an off-road camper trailer. The atmosphere is peaceful and relaxed, with the sounds of the bush providing a constant, calming soundtrack. While not directly on the lake, the Howes Creek boat ramp is just a short drive away, providing easy access for a day of fishing, kayaking, or water skiing. The surrounding network of forest tracks is also a major drawcard, offering excellent opportunities for 4WDing, trail biking, and bushwalking.

As a primitive state forest campground, Harrops Hill has no facilities. Visitors must be completely self-reliant, bringing in their own drinking water, a portable toilet, and the means to take all their rubbish home. This strict ‘leave no trace’ philosophy is essential to preserving the area’s natural beauty. Its proximity to the amenities of Bonnie Doon and Mansfield makes it a practical choice for a weekend getaway, offering a genuine sense of seclusion without requiring a long and arduous journey. For a no-fuss, free camping adventure, Harrops Hill is an excellent option.

Campsite Information

• Location: State Forest off Walshs Road, near the Howes Creek arm of Lake Eildon.
• Site Suitable For: Tents, swags, camper trailers, and off-road caravans.
• Road Access: Unsealed gravel road. Generally 2WD accessible in dry conditions, but AWD or 4WD is recommended as the road can become slippery and rough.
• Site Surface: Dirt and grass.
• Camping Permitted: Yes, free, dispersed camping is permitted.
• Maximum Overnight Stays: No specified limit.
• Facilities: None. This is a completely self-sufficient campsite.
• Potable Water: No. Bring all your own drinking water.
• Mobile Phone Coverage: Very patchy and unreliable. Do not depend on it.
• TV Reception: Unlikely.
• Onsite Public Toilets: No. A portable toilet and waste disposal system are essential.
• Rubbish Bins: No. A strict carry-in, carry-out policy is enforced.
• Open Fires: Permitted subject to local fire restrictions and Total Fire Bans. Use existing fire pits where possible.
• Generator Use: Permitted, but be considerate of fellow campers.
• Number of Sites Available: Numerous informal clearings of various sizes.
• Essentials to Bring: All water and food, portable toilet, rubbish bags, firewood, first-aid kit.
• Pet Friendly: Yes, dogs are permitted on-leash in Victorian State Forests.

Local Area & Amenities (Distances from Bonnie Doon)

• Fishing: Excellent in nearby Lake Eildon. The Howes Creek inlet is known for being a good fishing spot. A Victorian Fishing Licence is required.
• Short Walks: Explore the many forest tracks surrounding the campsite on foot.
• Nearest Town for Supplies: Bonnie Doon (~20 km) or Mansfield (~25 km).
• Local Pubs:
  • Bonnie Doon Hotel: ~20 km
  • The Mansfield Hotel (Mansfield): ~25 km
  • The Delatite Hotel (Mansfield): ~25 km
• Places to Eat:
  • Bonnie Doon has a hotel and local cafes.
  • Mansfield has a wide variety of bakeries, cafes, and restaurants.
• Local Attractions:
  • The famous Bonnie Doon Bridge.
  • The Great Victorian Rail Trail.
  • The regional town of Mansfield, the gateway to the High Country.
• Nearest Caravan Parks:
  • Lake Eildon Campground (Bonnie Doon).
  • Several options in Mansfield.
• Next Free Camps: Other informal sites in the surrounding State Forest, like along the Howqua River.
• Nearest Dump Points:
  • Mansfield Showgrounds has a public dump point.
• Nearest Petrol Station: Bonnie Doon or Mansfield.
• Drinking Water Resupply: Fill up all containers in Bonnie Doon or Mansfield before heading to camp.
• Public Toilets: Located at public reserves and boat ramps in Bonnie Doon and Howes Creek.

Seasonal Weather Forecast

• Summer (Dec-Feb): Hot and dry. Perfect for water activities but high fire danger. Average temperatures: 15°C to 33°C.
• Autumn (Mar-May): Warm days and cool nights. Ideal for camping and exploring the forest. Average temperatures: 8°C to 25°C.
• Winter (Jun-Aug): Cold and frosty, with potential for rain making tracks slippery. Average temperatures: 2°C to 14°C.
• Spring (Sep-Nov): Mild and pleasant, though weather can be unpredictable. The forest is green and vibrant. Average temperatures: 7°C to 22°C.