Slaty Creek Campground No 2 - The Ultimate Free Camping Guide in Creswick, Victoria
Slaty Creek Campground No 2 offers a quintessential Australian bush camping experience nestled within the lush landscapes of the Creswick Regional Park. Located just a short drive from the historic goldfields township of Creswick, this free campsite is an ideal retreat for those looking to disconnect and immerse themselves in nature. The area is famous for its towering Manna Gums, vibrant birdlife, and the quiet trickle of Slaty Creek, which provides a serene backdrop for weekend adventurers and long-term travellers alike.
As one of three distinct camping areas along Slaty Creek Road, Site No 2 is favoured for its secluded atmosphere. Unlike more formal caravan parks, this location provides a raw and authentic connection to the Victorian Goldfields. Visitors often spend their days gold panning in the creek bed, exploring the extensive network of walking tracks, or simply relaxing by a campfire. The site serves as an excellent base for exploring the broader Hepburn Shire, including the nearby spa country of Daylesford and the botanical beauty of Ballarat.
To ensure a successful stay at Slaty Creek Campground No 2, campers should note the following key features:
- Secluded bush setting with natural shade provided by native Eucalypts.
- Proximity to Slaty Creek, which is seasonal and typically flows best during winter and spring.
- Direct access to the Goldfields Track, perfect for mountain biking and hiking enthusiasts.
- Abundant wildlife spotting opportunities, including kangaroos, wallabies, and various parrot species.
- Historical significance as a former gold mining hub, with many relics still visible in the surrounding forest.
- First-come, first-served policy with no booking fees or permits required for standard camping.
Whether you are a solo traveller in a campervan or a family looking for a weekend escape, Slaty Creek Campground No 2 provides the space and tranquillity needed to recharge. Remember to practice "Leave No Trace" principles to help preserve this beautiful public land for future generations.
Slaty Creek Campground No 2
- Address: Slaty Creek Rd, Cabbage Tree (Creswick) VIC 3364
- Website: Parks Victoria - Creswick Regional Park
- GPS Coordinates: -37.464664181441925, 143.90551505644515
Location & Access
- Location: Situated within Creswick Regional Park, approximately 5km from Creswick town centre.
- Site Suitable For: Tents, Camper Trailers, and small to medium Vans. (Not recommended for very large caravans or long rigs due to tight turn-arounds).
- Road Access: Unsealed gravel road (Slaty Creek Rd). Can be potholed after heavy rain; 2WD accessible with care, but 4WD preferred during wet periods.
- Site Surface: Dirt and grass, mostly level but can become muddy during winter.
Facilities & Preparation
- Available Facilities: Wood fire BBQs (BYO wood), picnic tables, and established fire pits. (Note: Toilet is located at Site No 1, a short walk/drive away).
- Essentials to Bring: All drinking water, firewood, rubbish bags (take all waste with you), and a first aid kit.
- Pet Friendly: Yes, dogs are permitted but must be kept on a leash at all times.
- Fishing: Available at nearby St Georges Lake (approx. 4km away).
- Short Walks: Slaty Creek Loop, St Georges Lake Loop, and various tracks throughout Koala Park.
Local Amenities & Distance
Local Pubs
- The American Creswick - ~5.2 km
- Farmers Arms Hotel - ~5.5 km
- Cumberland Hotel (Smeaton) - ~14 km
Places to Eat
- Le Peche Gourmand (French Bakery) - ~5.1 km
- Creswick Country Bakery - ~5.3 km
- Smokeytown Cafe - ~5.2 km
Local Attractions
- St Georges Lake - ~4.1 km
- Creswick Woollen Mills - ~5.8 km
- Blue Waters (Scenic swimming/walking) - ~4.5 km
- Calembeen Park (Chinese Heritage & Lakes) - ~6.1 km
- Creswick Museum & Historic Town Hall - ~5.4 km
Nearest Caravan Parks
- Creswick Holiday Park - ~5.2 km
- RACV Goldfields Resort - ~4.8 km
Nearest Free Camps
- Slaty Creek Campground No 1 - ~1.2 km
- Slaty Creek Campground No 3 - ~0.8 km
Nearest Dump Points
- Creswick Holiday Park (12 Cushing Ave) - ~5.3 km
- Bailey Street Public Dump Point (Clunes) - ~21 km
Nearest Petrol Stations
- BP Creswick (Albert St) - ~5.4 km
- United Petroleum Creswick - ~5.6 km
Drinking Water Resupply
- Creswick Public Park / Visitor Centre Area - ~5.4 km
- Creswick Holiday Park (Fee may apply for non-guests) - ~5.2 km
Public Toilets
- Slaty Creek Site No 1 (Pit Toilet) - ~1.2 km
- Creswick Visitor Information Centre - ~5.4 km
Seasonal Weather Forecast
- Summer (Dec-Feb): Warm to hot (25°C - 35°C). High fire danger period; check CFA ratings daily. Creek may dry up.
- Autumn (Mar-May): Mild and pleasant (15°C - 22°C). Crisp mornings and beautiful changing leaf colours in Creswick.
- Winter (Jun-Aug): Cold and damp (8°C - 13°C). Frequent rain; creek flows well. Overnight frosts common (down to 0°C).
- Spring (Sep-Nov): Cool to mild (14°C - 20°C). Wildflower season. Best time for hiking and birdwatching.
