For a truly authentic and secluded bush camping adventure, Wannon Crossing Campground offers a magnificent free campsite deep within the southern Grampians (Gariwerd) National Park. This beautiful, rustic spot is nestled on the banks of the Wannon River, providing a peaceful and picturesque setting for self-sufficient travellers. It’s a classic Australian bush camp, surrounded by towering native forest and the tranquil sounds of nature. The campground is a haven for those looking to escape the crowds and immerse themselves in the rugged beauty of the Grampians. The spacious, unmarked sites are scattered amongst the trees, offering excellent privacy and a genuine sense of being in the wilderness. It is an ideal destination for keen anglers, avid bushwalkers, and anyone simply wishing to unwind by a campfire under a brilliant starry sky.
The Wannon River is the heart of this campground’s appeal, a beautiful waterway that is perfect for a refreshing swim, a leisurely kayak, or casting a line for Brown Trout and Redfin. The surrounding area is rich with wildlife, and it’s not uncommon to see kangaroos, wallabies, and emus wandering near the campsites, especially in the early morning and late afternoon. As a free, back-to-basics campground, it champions self-reliance. While it feels a world away, the charming and historic towns of Cavendish and Dunkeld are within a reasonable driving distance for supplies. The campground also serves as an excellent, though remote, base for exploring the southern section of the Grampians National Park, including the stunning Jimmy Creek area and the nearby Wannon and Nigretta Falls. For a memorable, budget-free escape that captures the wild spirit of the Grampians, Wannon Crossing Campground is a top-tier choice for the adventurous camper.
Wannon Crossing Campground – VIC Location Map
Wannon Crossing Campground
- Address: Billywing Rd, Mafeking VIC 3379 (within Grampians National Park)
- GPS: -37.43382020406218, 142.47546273996366
- Website: This is a free campground within a National Park. Information is available on the Parks Victoria website.
Site Details
- Location: Secluded bush camp on the Wannon River in the Grampians National Park.
- Site Suitable For: Tents, Camper Trailers, and off-road Caravans/Motorhomes.
- Road Access: Unsealed dirt road (Billywing Rd). Can be rough, corrugated, and slippery when wet. 4WD is often recommended.
- Site Surface: Natural dirt and grass.
- Camping Permitted: Yes, free camping.
- Maximum Overnight Stays: Please observe Parks Victoria guidelines.
- Facilities: Non-flush toilets, picnic tables, wood fire pits. No showers or power.
- Potable Water: No. You must bring all your own drinking water.
- Mobile Phone Coverage: Extremely limited to non-existent.
- TV Reception: Unlikely.
- Onsite Public Toilets: Yes, non-flush (pit) toilets.
- Rubbish Bins: No. This is a strict carry-in, carry-out site.
- Open Fires: Permitted in designated fire pits only, subject to seasonal fire restrictions. BYO firewood.
- Generator Use: Permitted, but please be highly considerate of the natural environment and other campers.
- Number of Sites Available: Unmarked sites in a large, open area.
- Essentials to Bring: Drinking water, firewood, toilet paper, rubbish bags, shovel, insect repellent.
- Pet Friendly: No. Pets are not permitted in the Grampians National Park.
Activities
- Fishing: Fishing for Brown Trout and Redfin in the Wannon River.
- Short Walks: Excellent area for bushwalking and exploring the surrounding forest.
- Kayaking: The river is suitable for a paddle when water levels are adequate.
Local Amenities
- Local Pubs:
- Cavendish Hotel (Cavendish) – Approx. 25 km
- Bunyip Hotel (Cavendish) – Approx. 25 km
- Royal Mail Hotel (Dunkeld) – Approx. 40 km
- Places to Eat:
- Cavendish Hotel & The Bunyip Hotel (Bistros) – Approx. 25 km
- The Bridge Cafe (Cavendish) – Approx. 25 km
- Local Attractions:
- Wannon Falls – Approx. 35 km
- Nigretta Falls – Approx. 40 km
- Dunkeld township (southern gateway to the Grampians) – Approx. 40 km
- Nearest Caravan Parks:
- Cavendish Recreation Reserve – Approx. 25 km
- Dunkeld Caravan Park – Approx. 40 km
- Next Free Camps:
- Buandik Campground (Grampians NP) – Approx. 15 km
- Cherry Pool (Rocklands Reservoir) – Approx. 30 km
- Nearest Dump Points:
- Cavendish Public Dump Point – Approx. 25 km
- Nearest Petrol Station:
- Cavendish – Approx. 25 km
- Drinking Water Resupply:
- Available in Cavendish or Dunkeld.
- Public Toilets:
- Available onsite (non-flush).
Seasonal Weather Forecast
- Summer (Dec-Feb): Warm to hot and generally dry, averaging 14-29°C. High fire danger season.
- Autumn (Mar-May): Mild, sunny days and cool nights, ideal for hiking, averaging 8-22°C.
- Winter (Jun-Aug): Cold and can be wet, with frequent frosts, averaging 3-13°C.
- Spring (Sep-Nov): Cool to mild, the best time for wildflowers and waterfalls, but weather can be changeable. Averaging 6-20°C.
