Perched on the edge of the Brisbane Ranges National Park, Bunjil’s Lookout offers one of the most spectacular free camping experiences in Victoria, boasting breathtaking panoramic views across the serene Moorabool Valley. This stunning location is more than just a place to camp; it’s a destination that connects you with the ancient landscapes and the deep cultural heritage of the Wadawurrung people, named for Bunjil, the eagle creator spirit. The campground itself is a basic but beautiful bush camp, providing a spacious, open area for self-contained travellers. It’s an ideal spot for those seeking a genuine escape into nature, where the primary attractions are the magnificent scenery, the abundant wildlife, and the incredible sense of peace and quiet.
This is a back-to-basics campground best suited for those who are fully self-sufficient. The reward for this preparedness is an unforgettable stay. By day, the lookout is a fantastic spot for picnics and birdwatching, with wedge-tailed eagles often seen soaring on the thermal updrafts. The area serves as a gateway to the numerous walking tracks of the Brisbane Ranges National Park, renowned for its stunning spring wildflower displays and rugged, rocky gorges. By night, far from city lights, the sky transforms into a celestial masterpiece, making it a perfect location for stargazing. While the campsite feels remote and secluded, it is conveniently located within a short drive of the charming towns of Meredith and Anakie, and less than an hour from Geelong. For travellers seeking a free camp with a million-dollar view and a true connection to the Australian bush, Bunjil’s Lookout is an unmissable destination.
Bunjil’s Lookout Free Camping – VIC Location Map
Bunjil’s Lookout Free Camping
- Address: 1795 Steiglitz Rd, Maude VIC 3331
- GPS: -37.949894082064965, 144.168147496661
- Website: This is a free campground area adjacent to the Brisbane Ranges National Park. Official information is available on the Parks Victoria website.
Site Details
- Location: Scenic lookout on the edge of the Brisbane Ranges National Park.
- Site Suitable For: Primarily self-contained Caravans, Motorhomes, and Camper Trailers.
- Road Access: Sealed road (Steiglitz Rd).
- Site Surface: Gravel and dirt. Can be uneven.
- Camping Permitted: Yes, free camping in designated areas.
- Maximum Overnight Stays: Please observe local signage; short stays are encouraged.
- Facilities: Non-flush toilets, picnic tables. No power or showers.
- Potable Water: No. You must bring your own drinking water.
- Mobile Phone Coverage: Generally good for Telstra due to the elevation; other carriers may be patchy.
- Onsite Public Toilets: Yes, non-flush (pit) toilets.
- Rubbish Bins: No. This is a strict carry-in, carry-out site.
- Open Fires: Not permitted. Use gas or liquid fuel stoves only.
- Generator Use: Permitted, but please be highly considerate of other campers due to the open nature of the site.
- Number of Sites Available: Unmarked, open area with space for 10-15 vans.
- Essentials to Bring: Drinking water, toilet paper, rubbish bags, levelling blocks.
- Pet Friendly: No. As it is part of the National Park, dogs and other pets are not permitted.
Activities
- Fishing: Not applicable.
- Short Walks: Direct access to walking tracks in the Brisbane Ranges National Park.
- Birdwatching & Photography: The lookout is a premier spot for both, with expansive views and eagles often sighted.
Local Amenities
- Local Pubs:
- Meredith Hotel (Meredith) – Approx. 18 km
- Anakie Hotel (Anakie) – Approx. 22 km
- Lal Lal Falls Hotel (Lal Lal) – Approx. 25 km
- Places to Eat:
- Meredith Hotel (Bistro) – Approx. 18 km
- Anakie General Store (Takeaway) – Approx. 22 km
- Local Attractions:
- Brisbane Ranges National Park – Adjacent
- Fairy Park (Anakie) – Approx. 25 km
- Steiglitz Historic Park – Approx. 15 km
- Dog Rocks Flora and Fauna Sanctuary – Approx. 28 km
- Nearest Caravan Parks:
- Meredith Caravan Park – Approx. 18 km
- Ballarat Goldfields Holiday Park (Ballarat) – Approx. 40 km
- Next Free Camps:
- Meredith Park Camping Ground (on the reservoir) – Approx. 20 km
- Smythesdale Gardens – Approx. 50 km
- Nearest Dump Points:
- Bannockburn Public Dump Point – Approx. 30 km
- Geelong Showgrounds Dump Point – Approx. 45 km
- Nearest Petrol Station:
- Meredith – Approx. 18 km
- Anakie – Approx. 22 km
- Drinking Water Resupply:
- Available in nearby towns like Meredith or Bannockburn.
- Public Toilets:
- Available onsite (non-flush). Full facilities in Meredith.
Seasonal Weather Forecast
- Summer (Dec-Feb): Warm to hot and very dry, averaging 14-29°C. Can be exposed and windy.
- Autumn (Mar-May): Mild, clear days and cool nights, ideal for walking, averaging 9-23°C.
- Winter (Jun-Aug): Cold and often windy, with frequent frosts, averaging 4-13°C.
- Spring (Sep-Nov): Cool to mild, the best time for wildflowers, but can be windy. Averaging 7-20°C.
