Perched high in the Victorian Alps at an elevation of over 1,300 metres, Connors Plain Campsite offers a genuine high-altitude wilderness experience for the well-prepared adventurer. Located within the magnificent Alpine National Park, this free campsite is set amidst the sprawling, sub-alpine grasslands of the Howitt Plains, characterised by twisted snow gums and panoramic views. Access is a key part of the adventure; the campsite is reached via the seasonally open Howitt Road, a journey that is strictly for 4WD vehicles, and even then, only recommended in dry conditions. This remoteness ensures that those who make the journey are rewarded with profound peace and seclusion, far from the hustle of more accessible campgrounds. It serves as an excellent, albeit basic, base camp for exploring some of the High Country’s most iconic features, including the Vallejo Gantner Hut, the Crosscut Saw, and Mount Howitt itself.
This is a primitive campsite in the truest sense, with no facilities provided. Campers must be entirely self-sufficient, carrying in every necessity, including all drinking water, a portable toilet, and fuel for cooking. As the campsite is within a national park, dogs are not permitted, and all rubbish must be scrupulously carried out to protect the fragile alpine ecosystem. The open, grassy plain offers several spots to set up a tent or an off-road camper trailer, but the site is exposed to the elements, and weather conditions can change with alarming speed. Even in summer, nights are cold, and visitors must be prepared for freezing temperatures. The area is a haven for hikers, with numerous trails leading into the heart of the park. For those seeking solitude, breathtaking alpine scenery, and a genuine challenge, Connors Plain Campsite is a remarkable destination that epitomises the rugged beauty of the Victorian High Country.
Connors Plain Campsite – VIC Location Map
Connors Plain Campsite
Campground Information & Features
- Location: High on the Howitt Plains in the Alpine National Park, off Howitt Road.
- Site Suitable For: Tents and off-road camper trailers.
- Road Access: 4WD only. Howitt Road is gravel, can be rough, and is subject to seasonal closures (typically closed from June to November). Check Parks Victoria for current road status.
- Site Surface: Natural grass and earth.
- Camping Permitted: Yes, free bush camping.
- Maximum Overnight Stays: Not specified, but short-term stays are expected.
- Facilities: None. Completely self-sufficient camping only.
- Potable Water: No. Bring all your own drinking water.
- Mobile Phone Coverage: None. A satellite communication device is highly recommended.
- Onsite Public Toilets: No. You must bring and use a portable toilet.
- Rubbish Bins: No. All rubbish must be carried out.
- Open Fires: Permitted in line with Alpine National Park regulations (fuel stoves preferred). Check for seasonal and Total Fire Bans. Do not collect local firewood.
- Generator Use: Not recommended due to the sensitive alpine environment and desire for tranquility.
- Number of Sites Available: Several undefined spots on the open plain.
- Essentials to Bring: All water, portable toilet, food, warm/wet weather clothing, vehicle recovery gear, satellite communicator, rubbish bags, first-aid kit.
- Pet Friendly: No. Pets are not permitted in the Alpine National Park.
- Fishing: Not available at the campsite; fishing is possible in nearby rivers like the Macalister and Wonnangatta, which require further travel.
- Short Walks: Excellent access to numerous high-plains hiking trails, including walks to Howitts Hut and Mount Howitt.
Nearby Amenities & Attractions (All Distant)
- Local Pubs:
- Dargo Hotel (Dargo) – Approx. 85 km (via 4WD tracks)
- Licola General Store (Licola) – Approx. 65 km (via 4WD tracks, sells alcohol)
- Kevington Hotel (Kevington) – Approx. 80 km (via 4WD tracks)
- Places to Eat:
- Dargo General Store (Dargo) – Approx. 85 km
- Licola General Store (Licola, basic supplies) – Approx. 65 km
- Mansfield (various options) – Approx. 120 km
- Local Attractions:
- Howitts Hut – Approx. 2 km
- Vallejo Gantner Hut / Crosscut Saw walking track access – Approx. 10 km
- Wonnangatta Valley – Significant 4WD trip from the plains
- Nearest Caravan Parks:
- Licola Caravan Park – Approx. 65 km
- Dargo River Inn & Tourist Park – Approx. 85 km
- Next Free Camps:
- Howitts Hut (basic shelter and camping area) – Approx. 2 km
- Various sites along the Wellington and Moroka Rivers (requires descent from plains)
- Nearest Dump Points:
- Mansfield Public Dump Point – Approx. 120 km
- Heyfield – Approx. 130 km
- Nearest Petrol Station:
- Licola (limited hours, may not always be available) – Approx. 65 km
- Dargo – Approx. 85 km
- Mansfield – Approx. 120 km
- Drinking Water Resupply:
- Water must be carried in. Nearest towns for reliable water are Mansfield, Heyfield, or Maffra.
- Nearest Public Toilets (offsite):
- Howitts Hut (basic long-drop) – Approx. 2 km
- Licola – Approx. 65 km
Seasonal Weather Forecast: Howitt Plains (High Alpine)
- Summer (Dec-Feb): Mild to warm days, but conditions are highly variable and can turn cold, wet, and windy without warning. Nights are cold. Temperatures range from 0°C to 25°C.
- Autumn (Mar-May): Cool, crisp days and cold to freezing nights. Generally stable weather but be prepared for early snowfalls from April onwards.
- Winter (Jun-Aug): The area is inaccessible. Roads are closed due to deep snow, and conditions are severe and dangerous with blizzards and sub-zero temperatures.
- Spring (Sep-Nov): Cold and unpredictable. The road typically remains closed until late spring. Snow can persist on the plains well into November.
