Discover the rugged beauty of the Victorian High Country at Nunniong Plains Gate, a serene free camping destination located in the expansive Nunniong State Forest. This magnificent sub-alpine region offers a genuine escape into nature, perfectly suited for self-sufficient campers, families, and 4WD enthusiasts looking to explore one of Victoria’s most scenic landscapes. Situated near the historic Moscow Villa and the grasslands of Bentley Plain, Nunniong Plains serves as an ideal base for a wide array of outdoor pursuits.
The area is characterised by its vast, open grasslands and heathlands, framed by old-growth forests that are home to diverse flora and fauna. During your stay, you can immerse yourself in activities such as bushwalking, with numerous tracks winding through the forest, or try your hand at fishing in the clear headwaters of the nearby Tambo and Timbarra Rivers. The region is steeped in history, with relics like the Washington Winch offering a glimpse into the area’s pastoral and logging past.
Camping at Nunniong Plains Gate is a back-to-basics experience. It operates as a dispersed free camping area, meaning you can find your own spot within the state forest guidelines. While this offers incredible freedom and privacy, it also means you must be fully self-contained. There are no bins, no potable water, and toilets are only available at the nearby designated campgrounds of Bentley Plain and Moscow Villa. Visitors must bring all their own supplies, including drinking water and firewood, and commit to leaving no trace by packing out all rubbish.
Access is via gravel roads which are generally manageable for 2WD vehicles in dry conditions, but a 4WD is highly recommended, especially after rain or during the cooler months. Be aware that roads in the area are subject to seasonal closures, typically between June and October, so always check the Parks Victoria website before you travel. For those prepared to be self-sufficient, Nunniong Plains Gate is a remarkable destination offering peace, stunning landscapes, and a true High Country adventure.
Nunniong Plains Gate – VIC Location Map
Nunniong Plains Gate Camping
- Address: Nunniong, VIC 3896
- GPS Coordinates: -37.1422, 147.9573
Site Features and Amenities
- Location: Nunniong State Forest, Victorian High Country.
- Site Suitable For: Self-sufficient campers, tents, camper trailers, and 4WD vehicles. Caravans possible with caution in dry conditions.
- Road Access: 2WD accessible gravel road (e.g., Nunniong Road) in dry conditions. 4WD is recommended, especially in wet weather. Roads are subject to seasonal closures (typically June-October).
- Site Surface: Grass, dirt.
- Camping Permitted: Yes, free dispersed camping permitted.
- Maximum Overnight Stays: 28 consecutive days.
- Picnic Tables: Available at nearby designated campgrounds (e.g., Bentley Plain, Moscow Villa).
- Potable Water: No. You must bring all your own drinking water.
- Mobile Phone Coverage: Extremely limited to non-existent. Do not rely on it for communication.
- TV Reception: Unlikely.
- Onsite Public Toilets: Non-flush (long-drop) toilets are available at the nearby Bentley Plain and Moscow Villa campgrounds.
- Rubbish Bins: No. You must take all rubbish home with you (Leave No Trace).
- Open Fires: Permitted, subject to seasonal fire restrictions (e.g., Total Fire Bans). Bring your own firewood. Do not cut down standing trees.
- Generator Use: Permitted, but please be mindful of other campers and noise.
- Number of Sites Available: Unmarked, dispersed sites throughout the forest area.
- Essentials to Bring: Drinking water, firewood, food, rubbish bags, portable toilet (if camping away from designated toilets), warm/wet weather gear, emergency communication (e.g., PLB or satellite phone).
- Pet Friendly: Yes, dogs are permitted on-leash in Victorian state forests.
- Fishing: Yes, permitted in the nearby Tambo and Timbarra Rivers.
- Short Walks: Yes, numerous bushwalking tracks and 4WD tracks in the area.
Local Amenities
- Local Pubs:
- Golden Age Hotel: Omeo (~45-50 km)
- Hilltop Hotel: Omeo (~45-50 km)
- Swifts Creek Hotel: Swifts Creek (~60-70 km)
- Places to Eat:
- Pub meals available in Omeo and Swifts Creek.
- Cafes and a bakery are available in Omeo (~45-50 km).
- A bakery is available in Swifts Creek (~60-70 km).
- Local Attractions:
- Moscow Villa Historical Site (nearby)
- Bentley Plain (nearby)
- Washington Winch Historical Site (nearby)
- Alpine National Park (adjacent)
- Nearest Caravan Parks:
- Omeo Holiday Park: Omeo (~45-50 km)
- Swifts Creek Caravan and Tourist Park: Swifts Creek (~60-70 km)
- Next Free Camps:
- Bentley Plain Campground (nearby)
- Moscow Villa (nearby)
- The Pipes (nearby)
- Timbarra Bridge Camping Area
- Nearest Dump Points:
- Omeo Public Dump Point (at Omeo Holiday Park): Omeo (~45-50 km)
- Nearest Petrol Station:
- Omeo Ski Hire & Service Station (24-hour self-serve fuel available): Omeo (~45-50 km)
- Petrol available in Swifts Creek (~60-70 km)
- Drinking Water Resupply:
- No public taps. Purchase bottled water from supermarkets in Omeo or Swifts Creek.
- Public Toilets (Town):
- 173 Day Ave, Omeo (~45-50 km)
Seasonal Weather Forecast: Nunniong Plains
- Summer (Dec-Feb): Expect balmy days with average maximums between 24-26°C, cooling down significantly at night to 8-9°C.
- Winter (Jun-Aug): Very cold. Days are chilly with average maximums of 10-12°C, and nights are typically freezing, averaging 0°C or below. Snowfall is possible.
- General Conditions: As a sub-alpine area, weather can change rapidly. The region generally experiences cooler temperatures, more wind, and more cloudy days than lowland Victoria. Always be prepared for cold and wet conditions, even in summer.
