Camping at Budj Bim is an opportunity to stay in a place of immense natural beauty and profound cultural significance. Located in the Mount Eccles section of the Budj Bim National Park, this campground is nestled within a landscape that has been recognised by UNESCO as a World Heritage site for its remarkable Indigenous history. The park protects the ancient and sophisticated aquaculture systems developed by the Gunditjmara people over thousands of years. This rich heritage provides a powerful and unique backdrop to a stunning natural setting, dominated by the dormant volcano of Mount Eccles and the beautiful, crater-filled Lake Surprise.
The campground itself is a serene and well-equipped Parks Victoria facility, set in a picturesque clearing surrounded by Manna Gum forest. It’s a haven for wildlife, with koalas, kangaroos, wallabies, and emus being common and delightful visitors to the campground. The sites are well-spaced, offering a good degree of privacy for tents, camper trailers, and caravans. Unlike many national park camps, Budj Bim offers excellent amenities, including flushing toilets, hot showers, and a basic laundry, making for a very comfortable bush camping experience. Each site also features a dedicated fireplace, perfect for relaxing around a campfire after a day of exploration.
The location is a paradise for hikers and nature lovers. A network of walking tracks starts directly from the campground, leading you around the crater rim of Lake Surprise, through lava canals, and to scenic lookouts with panoramic views over the volcanic plains. You can explore a lava cave and learn about the powerful connection between the Gunditjmara people and this dynamic landscape. Its relative seclusion ensures a peaceful stay, while the nearby town of Macarthur provides access to basic supplies and a classic country pub. For a truly memorable and meaningful camping adventure, Budj Bim is a must-visit destination. Bookings are essential.
Budj Bim Campground – VIC Location Map
Budj Bim Campground
- Address: Budj Bim National Park, Macarthur VIC 3286
- Website: Parks Victoria
- GPS Coordinates: -38.05657, 141.92348
Site Information
- Location: In the Mount Eccles section of the World Heritage listed Budj Bim National Park.
- Site Suitable For: Tents, Camper Trailers, Caravans, and Motorhomes.
- Road Access: Sealed road access to the campground entrance.
- Site Surface: Level gravel/crusher dust pads for each site.
- Camping Permitted: Yes, powered and unpowered sites available. Online booking in advance is mandatory.
- Maximum Overnight Stays: Check the Parks Victoria website for current limits.
- Number of Powered Sites: Yes, a limited number of powered sites are available.
- Number of Un-powered Sites: Yes, unpowered sites are also available.
Facilities
- Facilities: Modern amenity block with flushing toilets, hot showers, and basic laundry facilities. Gas barbecues.
- Picnic Tables: Yes, shared tables are available in the day-use area.
- Potable Water: Yes, treated water is available but boiling before consumption is recommended.
- Mobile Phone Coverage: Very limited to non-existent.
- TV Reception: Poor to none.
- Onsite Public Toilets: Yes.
- Ullage: No dump point. Nearest is in Macarthur or Heywood.
- Rubbish Bins: No. All rubbish must be taken with you.
- Open Fires: Permitted in designated fireplaces only, subject to seasonal fire restrictions. Bring your own firewood.
- Generator Use: Prohibited.
Essentials & Activities
- Essentials to Bring: All food and supplies, rubbish bags, firewood, hiking boots, camera for wildlife.
- Pet Friendly: No. Domestic animals are not permitted in the National Park.
- Fishing: Fishing is not a primary activity at Lake Surprise.
- Short Walks: Excellent walking trails start at the campground, including the Lake Surprise Circuit and Lava Cave walks.
Local Amenities
- Local Pubs:
- Macarthur Hotel (approx. 15 km)
- Heywood Hotel (approx. 40 km)
- The Caledonian Inn, Port Fairy (approx. 50 km)
- Places to Eat: Macarthur has a pub and a general store/cafe. A wider range is available in Port Fairy or Hamilton.
- Local Attractions:
- Lake Surprise & Volcanic Crater
- Budj Bim Cultural Landscape tours
- The nearby towns of Port Fairy and Hamilton
- Grampians National Park (Gariwerd) (approx. 1.5 hour drive)
- Nearest Caravan Parks:
- Macarthur Caravan Park
- Heywood Caravan Park
- Next Free Camps: Fitzroy River Camping at Tyrendarra, Annya State Forest Campground.
- Nearest Dump Points: Public dump points are available in Macarthur and Heywood.
- Nearest Petrol Station: Available in Macarthur (check hours).
- Drinking Water Resupply: Available onsite (treatment recommended).
- Public Toilets: Available onsite.
Seasonal Weather Forecast
- Summer (Dec – Feb): Warm and generally dry, but can be prone to cool changes. High bushfire risk period. Temperatures average 12°C to 26°C.
- Autumn (Mar – May): A beautiful time to visit, with mild, sunny days and cool nights. The forest is often at its best. Temperatures average 8°C to 21°C.
- Winter (Jun – Aug): Cold and often wet. Days are cool and can be windy and overcast. Nights are very cold with frequent frosts. Temperatures range from 4°C to 14°C.
- Spring (Sep – Nov): A lovely season as the park comes alive with wildflowers. The weather is cool and can be variable. Temperatures average 7°C to 20°C.