For the self-sufficient adventurer with a capable 4WD, Eustace Creek Campground offers a truly remote bush camping experience on the pristine shores of Lake Dartmouth. Tucked away on the eastern side of the lake, this is not a destination for the casual traveller; it’s a reward for those willing to navigate the challenging Eustace Gap Track. The campground is a primitive, informal clearing where Eustace Creek meets the vast expanse of the lake, providing stunning water views and a profound sense of isolation. This is the essence of High Country camping: rugged, beautiful, and completely off-grid. There are no designated sites, allowing campers to find their own secluded spot among the trees.
The primary appeal of Eustace Creek lies in its unparalleled access to Lake Dartmouth, a waterway famed for its trophy-sized trout. It’s an angler’s paradise, and the remote location means you’ll often have large stretches of water to yourself. It’s an ideal spot to launch a small boat, kayak, or canoe to explore hidden inlets and prime fishing spots. As a true bush camp, there are absolutely no facilities—no toilets, no tables, and no bins. Visitors must be entirely self-contained and adhere strictly to ‘leave no trace’ principles, packing out everything they bring in. The journey itself is part of the adventure, with the 4WD track offering scenic views and a decent challenge. For those properly equipped to handle the isolation and rough access, Eustace Creek Campground is a spectacular destination that showcases the untamed beauty of the Victorian High Country.
Eustace Creek Campground – VIC Location Map
Eustace Creek Campground
- Address: Eustace Gap Track, Dartmouth VIC 3701
- GPS Coordinates: -36.62856, 147.63882
- Location: A remote, undeveloped camping area on the eastern shore of Lake Dartmouth.
- Site Suitable For: Tents, swags, and rugged off-road camper trailers only. Not suitable for caravans or 2WD vehicles.
- Road Access: 4WD ONLY. Access is via the steep and potentially challenging Eustace Gap Track. Vehicle must have high clearance.
- Site Surface: Natural dirt and grass.
- Camping Permitted: Yes.
- Maximum Overnight Stays: No specified limit.
- Number of Powered Sites: 0.
- Number of Un-powered Sites: Several informal, unmarked sites.
Facilities
- Picnic Tables: No.
- Potable Water: No. You must bring all your own water or have a reliable filtration/treatment system for lake water.
- Mobile Phone Coverage: None. A satellite communication device is highly recommended.
- TV Reception: No.
- Onsite Public Toilets: No. You must be fully self-contained with a portable toilet.
- Rubbish Bins: No. All rubbish must be carried out.
- Open Fires: May be permitted depending on conditions. Check local fire regulations and Total Fire Ban status. Use existing fire pits where possible.
- Generator Use: Permitted, but be mindful of the tranquil environment.
- Number of Sites Available: Not individually marked.
Activities & Important Information
- Essentials to Bring: All water and food supplies, portable toilet, recovery gear for your 4WD, firewood, boat/kayak, and robust rubbish bags.
- Pet Friendly: Yes, dogs on a leash are generally permitted in State Forests.
- Fishing: World-class trout fishing in Lake Dartmouth. A Victorian fishing licence is required.
- Short Walks: Explore the shoreline and surrounding bushland at your leisure.
Local Amenities
The nearest town for any supplies is Dartmouth, a significant 4WD journey away.
Pubs & Places to Eat
- Dartmouth Pub (The Dart): Located in Dartmouth, approximately a 15-20 km slow 4WD trip away.
Local Attractions
- Lake Dartmouth: The main attraction for boating, fishing, and scenery.
- Dartmouth Dam Wall: An impressive structure to visit before or after your trip.
- 4WD Tracks: The area is crisscrossed with numerous tracks for further exploration.
Camping & Services
- Nearest Caravan Parks: Dartmouth Pub & Caravan Park (in Dartmouth).
- Next Free Camps: Other remote camps around the lake (many are boat-access only) or back on the Omeo Hwy like Snowy Creek Campground.
- Nearest Dump Points: Tallangatta or Omeo.
- Nearest Petrol Station: Dartmouth (limited fuel and hours).
- Drinking Water Resupply: Dartmouth.
- Nearest Public Toilets (Flush): Located in Dartmouth township.
Seasonal Weather Forecast
Note: Weather in the High Country is notoriously unpredictable. Tracks can become impassable after rain. Be prepared for all conditions.
- Summer (Dec-Feb): Warm to hot days, but can still be cool at night. The risk of bushfires is very high.
- Autumn (Mar-May): Often considered the best time to visit, with stable, clear weather. Nights are cold.
- Winter (Jun-Aug): Very cold. Access is likely to be impossible due to snow, ice, and track conditions. Not recommended.
- Spring (Sep-Nov): Cool and variable. Tracks can be very wet and boggy from snowmelt and rain. Proceed with extreme caution.