Mount Alexander Regional Park, known as Leanganook to the Dja Dja Wurrung people, is a prominent granite landmark rising high above the surrounding Goldfields landscape. Located just minutes from the town of Harcourt, this park is a beloved destination for its magnificent views, striking granite tors, and exceptional, free camping facilities, making it a perfect base for exploring the region.
The park’s main hub for visitors is the **Leanganook Camping Area**, a spacious and remarkably well-equipped free campground. In a rare treat for a bush camp, this site features **flushing toilets**, picnic tables, shelter, and designated fireplaces. This makes it an incredibly popular and accessible option for families, first-time campers, and those walking the Goldfields Track, which passes directly through the park. The campground provides a fantastic base for setting off on foot to explore the park’s highlights.
From the campground, it’s a pleasant 3km return walk to Dog Rocks, a massive granite outcrop perfect for scrambling and enjoying the scenery. A longer, more challenging hike can take you to Lang’s Lookout, which offers breathtaking panoramic views across the Harcourt valley, famous for its apple orchards and cideries. The park is also a popular spot for rock climbing, birdwatching, and simply enjoying a picnic at one of the several designated areas.
While the facilities are excellent, campers must still be self-sufficient. There is no potable (drinking) water available, so you must bring your own. All rubbish must be taken with you, as no bins are provided. Open fires are only allowed in the provided fireplaces and are subject to seasonal fire restrictions. Unlike many national parks, **dogs are permitted on a leash** within the park and campground, making it a great option for those travelling with their pets.
Mount Alexander Regional Park (Parks Victoria) – VIC Location Map
Mount Alexander Regional Park (Leanganook Camping Area)
- Address: Mount Alexander Rd, Harcourt North VIC 3453
- GPS Coordinates: -36.99771, 144.30538 (Note: This GPS coordinate is for the Dog Rocks area; the Leanganook Camping Area is nearby, follow signage in the park)
Site Features
- Site suitable for: Tents, camper trailers, and small-to-medium caravans (access is via 2WD gravel road).
- Road access: 2WD accessible gravel road.
- Site surface: Dirt/gravel clearings.
- Camping permitted: Yes, free camping is permitted at the designated Leanganook Camping Area. No bookings required.
- Maximum overnight stays: Check local signage for limits.
- Picnic tables: Yes, plus a picnic shelter.
- Potable water: No. You must bring all your own drinking water.
- Mobile phone coverage: Patchy. Generally better at higher elevations (lookouts) and poor in the campground.
- TV reception: No.
- Onsite public toilets: **Yes, flushing toilets** are available.
- Rubbish bins: No. You must take all rubbish with you (Leave No Trace).
- Open fires: Permitted in designated fireplaces only. Subject to seasonal fire restrictions (Total Fire Bans). BYO firewood.
- Generator use: Not specified (discouraged to maintain park tranquility).
- Number of sites available: Not specified; multiple sites in a large, unpowered area.
- Essentials to bring: **Drinking water, rubbish bags,** firewood, toilet paper (just in case).
- Pet friendly: **Yes. Dogs are allowed but must be on a leash.**
- Fishing: No.
- Short walks: Yes, excellent walks to Dog Rocks (3km return) and Lang’s Lookout (9km return) directly from the campground. The Goldfields Track also runs through the park.
Local Amenities
Local Pubs
- Harcourt Hotel: Approximately 5-10km away in Harcourt.
- The Bridge Hotel Castlemaine: Approximately 15-20km away in Castlemaine.
- Red Hill Hotel: Approximately 10-15km away in Chewton.
Places to Eat
- Harcourt Produce and General Store: Excellent cafe, wine, and local produce (approx. 5-10km).
- Harcourt Ciders / Breweries: Several local cideries offer tastings and food (approx. 5-10km).
- Castlemaine: A very wide selection of cafes, restaurants, and bakeries (approx. 15-20km).
Local Attractions
- Dog’s Rocks: Granite tors and views (onsite).
- Lang’s Lookout: Panoramic views (onsite).
- Goldfields Track: Major hiking/cycling track (onsite).
- Harcourt Apple & Cider Region: Explore local cideries (approx. 5-10km).
- Castlemaine Diggings National Heritage Park: (approx. 15-20km).
Nearest Caravan Parks
- Harcourt Valley Holiday Park: Approximately 5-10km away.
- BIG4 Castlemaine Gardens Holiday Park: Approximately 15-20km away.
Next Free Camps
- Butts Camping Area: Located in Maldon (approx. 20-25km).
Nearest Dump Points
- Harcourt RV Dump Station: Located on Bridge Street, Harcourt, beside the swimming pool (approx. 5-10km).
Nearest Petrol Station
- BP Harcourt: Located at 34 High Street, Harcourt (approx. 5-10km).
Drinking Water Resupply
- Harcourt / Castlemaine: Public taps available for water container refills in town parks.
Nearest Public Toilets
- Onsite: Flushing toilets are available at Leanganook Camping Area.
- Harcourt: Public toilets available in town (approx. 5-10km).
Seasonal Weather Forecast
- Summer (December – February): Warm to hot, with average highs around 28-30°C. Days can be very hot and dry. High fire danger.
- Autumn (March – May): Mild and often clear, with average highs cooling from 26°C to 17°C. A great time for hiking.
- Winter (June – August): Cold, with average highs around 12-14°C. Nights are very cold, with frosts common.
- Spring (September – November): Mild days with average highs rising from 17°C to 24°C. The park is often green with wildflowers.