Freshwater Lake Camping, Grampians Peaks Trail Hike-in Campground

For the dedicated hiker and nature enthusiast, the Freshwater Lake overnight camping ground offers a truly special and immersive experience in the southern Grampians (Gariwerd) National Park. This is not a drive-in campground; it is a dedicated hike-in site, primarily serving as a key overnight stop on the world-class Grampians Peaks Trail. Its secluded location ensures a level of tranquility and connection to the wilderness that is hard to find. Nestled in a beautiful, remote valley, the campground is set near the edge of the seasonal Freshwater Lake, surrounded by rugged sandstone ranges and native bushland. The purpose-built timber platforms are designed for tent-based camping, minimising environmental impact and providing a comfortable, level base for a good night’s rest after a long day on the trail.

This campground is all about the journey and the destination. The experience of arriving on foot, surrounded by the raw beauty of the Grampians, is its main appeal. The area is a haven for wildlife, with kangaroos, wallabies, and a rich diversity of birdlife being common sights. The facilities, while basic, are modern and well-maintained for a hike-in site, including a shelter, non-flush toilets, and rainwater tanks. Being a key part of the Grampians Peaks Trail, booking is essential and ensures the site remains pristine and uncrowded. The campground’s location makes it a crucial link for those undertaking multi-day treks through the park’s southern section, connecting trails that lead towards the stunning peaks of Mt Abrupt and Mt Sturgeon near Dunkeld. For walkers seeking an authentic, remote, and beautifully designed overnight stop that embodies the spirit of the Grampians, the Freshwater Lake camping ground is an essential and rewarding experience.

Freshwater Lake Camping – VIC Location Map

Freshwater Lake overnight camping ground

• Address: 753 Victoria Valley Rd, Victoria Valley VIC 3294 (Note: This is the road access point, the campground itself is hike-in only)
• GPS: -37.585519791785465, 142.31867921885652
• Website: Parks Victoria – Grampians Peaks Trail Camping

Site Details

• Location: Secluded hike-in campground in the Grampians National Park.
• Site Suitable For: Tents only (on timber platforms). This is a walk-in only site.
• Road Access: Accessible via walking tracks as part of the Grampians Peaks Trail. The nearest vehicle access is at the Griffin Fireline Carpark.
• Site Surface: Raised timber tent platforms.
• Camping Permitted: Yes, bookings and fees are mandatory via the Parks Victoria website.
• Maximum Overnight Stays: Determined by Grampians Peaks Trail booking itinerary.
• Facilities: Communal shelter, non-flush toilets, untreated rainwater tanks, USB charging points. No showers.
• Potable Water: Untreated rainwater is available but should be purified before use. Always carry backup water.
• Mobile Phone Coverage: Extremely limited to non-existent. A personal locator beacon (PLB) is highly recommended.
• TV Reception: Not applicable.
• Onsite Public Toilets: Yes, non-flush toilets.
• Rubbish Bins: No. This is a strict carry-in, carry-out site.
• Open Fires: Prohibited. Fuel stoves only.
• Generator Use: Not permitted.
• Number of Sites Available: Limited number of tent platforms, booking is essential.
• Essentials to Bring: All hiking and camping gear, food, water purification system, first aid kit, PLB.
• Pet Friendly: No. Pets are not permitted in the Grampians National Park.

Activities

• Fishing: Not applicable.
• Short Walks: This is a key destination on the multi-day Grampians Peaks Trail.
• Wildlife Watching: Excellent opportunities to see native fauna in a remote setting.

Local Amenities

• Local Pubs:
  • Royal Mail Hotel (Dunkeld) – Approx. 25 km drive from nearest trailhead
  • Cavendish Hotel (Cavendish) – Approx. 30 km drive from nearest trailhead
• Places to Eat:
  • Dunkeld Old Bakery & Cafe – Approx. 25 km drive from nearest trailhead
  • Royal Mail Hotel (Bistro & Fine Dining) – Approx. 25 km drive from nearest trailhead
• Local Attractions:
  • Grampians Peaks Trail – Onsite
  • Mt Abrupt (Bainggug) and Mt Sturgeon (Wurgarri) – Southern Grampians
  • Wannon Falls & Nigretta Falls (near Cavendish)
• Nearest Caravan Parks:
  • Dunkeld Caravan Park – Approx. 25 km drive
  • Cavendish Recreation Reserve – Approx. 30 km drive
• Next Free Camps:
  • Wannon Crossing Campground – Approx. 15 km drive
  • Buandik Campground – Approx. 20 km drive
• Nearest Dump Points:
  • Dunkeld Public Dump Point – Approx. 25 km drive
• Nearest Petrol Station:
  • Dunkeld – Approx. 25 km drive
• Drinking Water Resupply:
  • Available in Dunkeld.
• Public Toilets:
  • Available onsite (non-flush). Full facilities in Dunkeld.

Seasonal Weather Forecast

• Summer (Dec-Feb): Warm to hot and dry, averaging 14-29°C. High fire danger season.
• Autumn (Mar-May): Mild, sunny days and cool nights, ideal for hiking, averaging 8-22°C.
• Winter (Jun-Aug): Cold and can be wet, with frequent frosts, averaging 3-13°C. Be prepared for alpine conditions.
• Spring (Sep-Nov): Cool to mild, the best time for wildflowers, but weather can be very changeable. Averaging 6-20°C.