For the dedicated long-distance bushwalker, Goghill Creek Camp represents a quintessential High Country stopover. Located directly on the renowned Australian Alps Walking Track (AAWT) in the remote Selwyn region, this is not a destination for the casual car camper but a welcome sanctuary for those travelling on foot. It is a primitive, hike-in-only site that offers a profound sense of solitude and immersion in the rugged beauty of the Alpine National Park. The campsite is a small, informal clearing nestled amongst the snow gums, offering a sheltered spot to pitch a tent and rest weary legs.
The experience at Goghill Creek Camp is defined by its isolation and simplicity. There are no facilities to speak of; this is pure, self-sufficient bush camping. The nearby Goghill Creek is the site’s lifeblood, providing a critical water source for hikers (all water must be treated before consumption). The appeal of staying here lies in the achievement of arriving under your own power and the tranquility that follows. After a long day on the trail, the simple act of setting up camp, filtering water, and cooking a meal takes on a meditative quality. The evenings are profoundly quiet, and the night sky, unpolluted by any artificial light, is simply breathtaking.
As an integral part of the AAWT, this campsite is a waypoint on an epic journey. It connects walkers trekking between sections like the Big River and the Omeo Highway. Planning is paramount for anyone intending to stay here. Hikers must be entirely self-reliant, carrying lightweight shelter, sleeping gear, food, navigation tools, and an emergency communication device like a PLB, as there is no mobile reception. Goghill Creek Camp is more than just a place to sleep; it’s a vital piece of the Australian alpine experience, rewarding the prepared adventurer with an unforgettable night in the wilderness.
Goghill Creek Camp – VIC Location Map
Goghill Creek Camp
Campsite Information
- Site Suitable For: Lightweight hiking tents and bivvies only.
- Road Access: None. This is a hike-in only campsite located on the Australian Alps Walking Track.
- Site Surface: Dirt and natural forest floor.
- Camping Permitted: Yes, free, dispersed camping is permitted.
- Maximum Overnight Stays: No specified limit.
- Facilities: None. This is a completely primitive wilderness campsite.
- Potable Water: No. Water is available from Goghill Creek but must be treated/filtered before drinking.
- Mobile Phone Coverage: None. An emergency communication device (PLB/Satellite Phone) is essential.
- TV Reception: None.
- Onsite Public Toilets: No. Hikers must be equipped with a trowel for digging catholes for human waste, well away from water sources.
- Rubbish Bins: No. A strict pack-in, pack-out policy applies to all waste, including food scraps.
- Open Fires: Strongly discouraged due to the sensitive alpine environment. Use fuel stoves for cooking. Check all fire restrictions.
- Generator Use: Not applicable.
- Number of Sites Available: Limited space for a few small hiking tents.
- Essentials to Bring: All hiking and camping gear, water filter, navigation equipment, PLB or satellite messenger, first-aid kit, trowel.
- Pet Friendly: No. Pets are not permitted in the Alpine National Park.
Local Area & Amenities (Distances from nearest road access)
- Fishing: Possible in nearby creeks for experienced anglers with appropriate gear. Victorian Fishing Licence required.
- Short Walks: This campsite is a waypoint on a multi-day hike.
- Nearest Road Access Points:
- Big River Road (to access Beveridges Campground trailhead)
- Omeo Highway (to access The Bend/Anglers Rest trailhead)
- Nearest Pubs (from road access):
- The Mitta Pub (Mitta Mitta): ~40 km from Big River Rd access.
- Blue Duck Inn (Anglers Rest): ~25 km from Omeo Hwy access.
- Places to Eat (from road access):
- Mitta Mitta General Store & Pub: ~40 km from Big River Rd access.
- Blue Duck Inn / Omeo: ~25-60 km from Omeo Hwy access.
- Nearest Towns (for pre/post hike supplies):
- Nearest Caravan Parks (for pre/post hike stay):
- Mitta Mitta Caravan Park
- Omeo Caravan Park
- Nearest Dump Points: Mitta Mitta or Omeo.
- Nearest Petrol Station: Mitta Mitta or Omeo.
- Drinking Water Resupply: Fill up all water supplies in the nearest town before starting your hike.
- Public Toilets: Located in towns like Mitta Mitta and Omeo.
Seasonal Weather Forecast
- Summer (Dec-Feb): Mild days, cool nights. Weather is highly unpredictable and can change rapidly. Be prepared for sun, wind, and rain. Average temperatures: 5°C to 22°C.
- Autumn (Mar-May): Cool, crisp days and cold nights. Generally more stable weather but can be very cold. Average temperatures: 0°C to 15°C.
- Winter (Jun-Aug): Extremely cold. The area will be covered in snow. This section of the track is for experienced ski-tourers and snowshoers only. Average temperatures: -5°C to 5°C.
- Spring (Sep-Nov): Cold and variable. Snowmelt can make tracks and creeks difficult to cross. Snow may persist into late spring. Average temperatures: -2°C to 12°C.
