Escape to the heart of the Victorian High Country at Ollies Jumpup, a spectacular free campground nestled on a sweeping bend of the Dargo River. This large, flat, and grassy reserve is a paradise for self-sufficient campers seeking an authentic bush experience. Surrounded by the rugged beauty of forested hills, Ollies Jumpup offers a serene and picturesque setting to unwind, explore, and reconnect with nature. It’s a popular spot for 4WD enthusiasts, families, and anglers, providing ample space for everything from tents and swags to off-road camper trailers and caravans. The river itself is a major drawcard, offering cool, clear water for a refreshing swim on a hot summer’s day and promising opportunities to catch trout and other freshwater species.
As a remote bush camp, preparation is key to a successful stay. The campground provides basic facilities, including non-flushing toilets, picnic tables, and established fire pits, but there is no drinking water or rubbish collection. Campers must be completely self-contained and follow the ‘leave no trace’ ethos by taking all their rubbish home. The access via the unsealed Upper Dargo Road is best suited for 4WD and high-clearance vehicles, especially after rain, which only adds to the sense of adventure and seclusion. Being pet-friendly, it’s a fantastic destination for the whole family to enjoy. Whether you’re setting up a basecamp to explore the legendary 4WD tracks of the Dargo region, seeking a peaceful spot for a weekend of fishing, or simply want to relax by a campfire under a sky full of stars, Ollies Jumpup delivers an unforgettable High Country adventure.
Ollies Jumpup Campground
- Address: Upper Dargo Road, Dargo, Victoria, Australia
- GPS Coordinates: -37.38509542925027, 147.27521975029578
- Website: Managed by Forest Fire Management Victoria (no direct website).
Features & Rules
- Location: Remote, riverside setting in the Dargo High Plains.
- Site Suitable For: Tents, camper trailers, and off-road caravans.
- Road Access: Unsealed road. 4WD or high-clearance vehicle recommended, especially in wet conditions.
- Site Surface: Large, flat grassy areas.
- Camping Permitted: Yes, in undesignated areas.
- Maximum Overnight Stays: No specified limit.
- Facilities: Non-flushing toilets, picnic tables, fire pits.
- Potable Water: No. You must bring your own drinking water or have a reliable filtration system for river water.
- Mobile Phone Coverage: Very limited to non-existent. Expect to be offline.
- Onsite Public Toilets: Yes, basic non-flushing toilets are available.
- Rubbish Bins: No. All rubbish must be taken with you.
- Open Fires: Permitted in provided fire pits, subject to seasonal fire bans.
- Generator Use: Permitted, with consideration for other campers.
- Number of Sites Available: Numerous undesignated, unpowered sites.
- Essentials to Bring: Drinking water, firewood, rubbish bags, toilet paper, and insect repellent.
- Pet Friendly: Yes, dogs are permitted but must be kept under control.
- Fishing: Yes, in the Dargo River.
- Short Walks: Informal walks along the river and surrounding bushland.
Local Amenities & Attractions
- Local Pubs:
- Dargo Hotel – approx. 15 km
- Places to Eat:
- Dargo Hotel – approx. 15 km
- Dargo General Store (offers takeaway) – approx. 15 km
- Local Attractions:
- Dargo High Plains Road scenic drive
- Numerous 4WD tracks (Blue Rag Range, Billy Goat Bluff etc.)
- Grant Historic Area
Nearby Parks & Services
- Nearest Caravan Parks:
- Dargo River Inn & Caravan Park – approx. 15 km
- Nearest Alternate Free Camps:
- Jimmy Iversons Campground – approx. 2 km
- Italian Flat Campground – approx. 5 km
- Nearest Dump Points:
- Bairnsdale Visitor Information Centre – approx. 100 km
- Nearest Petrol Station: Dargo General Store – approx. 15 km.
- Nearest Drinking Water Resupply: Dargo General Store (check availability) or Bairnsdale.
- Nearest Public Toilets: On-site (basic). Flushing toilets in Dargo township – approx. 15 km.
Seasonal Weather Forecast
- Summer (Dec-Feb): Warm to hot days, perfect for swimming in the river, with cooler nights. Average maximums are around 25°C to 28°C.
- Autumn (Mar-May): Mild, sunny days and crisp, cool nights. The autumn colours in the high country are spectacular. Average maximums range from 15°C to 24°C.
- Winter (Jun-Aug): Cold, with frosty nights and potential for snow on higher peaks. Roads can be closed. Average maximums are around 10°C to 13°C.
- Spring (Sep-Nov): Mild and becoming warmer. The river can be high from snowmelt. Average maximums range from 16°C to 22°C.
