Discover a tranquil and convenient free camping spot right on the doorstep of one of Victoria’s most enchanting cool temperate rainforests at the Tarra Valley Road Tourist Rest Point. This simple yet beautiful rest area offers self-sufficient campers an incredible opportunity to stay overnight in the heart of the magnificent Tarra-Bulga National Park. The campground is a small, peaceful clearing set alongside the picturesque Tarra River, surrounded by a breathtaking forest of towering Mountain Ash trees and lush, ancient tree ferns. It’s the perfect back-to-basics escape for nature lovers, hikers, and anyone wanting to immerse themselves in the magical atmosphere of this unique part of Gippsland.
The main appeal of this location is its unparalleled access to the wonders of the national park. The campground serves as the perfect base for exploring the area’s famous attractions. A short walk or drive from your campsite will take you to the stunning Cyathea Falls and the famous Corrigan Suspension Bridge, which offers a spectacular perspective as it sways gently above the fern-filled gully below. The air is fresh, clean, and filled with the sounds of the forest and its abundant birdlife, including the distinctive calls of the lyrebird. While the facilities are minimal, reflecting its status as a simple rest stop, this is a key part of its charm for those looking to connect with nature. Its location on the main tourist road makes it easily accessible, yet it feels a world away from the hustle and bustle. For a memorable and budget-free adventure into a primeval world of giant ferns and cascading waterfalls, the Tarra Valley Rest Point is an unbeatable choice.
Tarra Valley Road Tourist Rest Point – VIC Location Map
Tarra Valley Road Tourist Rest Point
- Address: Tarra Valley Rd, Tarra Valley VIC 3971
- GPS: -38.476563, 146.598906
- Website: This is a public rest area adjacent to a National Park. Information is available on the Parks Victoria website.
Site Details
- Location: Roadside rest area within the Tarra-Bulga National Park.
- Site Suitable For: Tents, Swags, and small Campervans. Not suitable for caravans or large motorhomes due to limited space and turning circle.
- Road Access: Sealed but narrow and very windy road (Tarra Valley Rd).
- Site Surface: Gravel and dirt.
- Camping Permitted: Yes, informal overnight stays are tolerated.
- Maximum Overnight Stays: Strictly 24 hours.
- Facilities: Non-flush toilets, picnic tables. No power or showers.
- Potable Water: No. You must bring your own drinking water.
- Mobile Phone Coverage: Very poor 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: Strictly not permitted in the national park. Fuel stoves only.
- Generator Use: Not permitted.
- Number of Sites Available: Very small area, suitable for only 2-3 small setups.
- Essentials to Bring: Drinking water, rubbish bags, toilet paper, waterproof gear.
- Pet Friendly: No. Pets are not permitted in Tarra-Bulga National Park.
Activities
- Fishing: Not applicable.
- Short Walks: This is a premier hiking destination with direct access to the trails for Cyathea Falls and the Corrigan Suspension Bridge.
- Wildlife Watching: A great spot to listen for lyrebirds and see other rainforest fauna.
Local Amenities
- Local Pubs:
- Tarra Valley Hotel – Approx. 5 km
- The Royal Standard Hotel (Toora) – Approx. 30 km
- The Club Hotel (Yarram) – Approx. 30 km
- Places to Eat:
- Tarra-Bulga Guest House & Cafe – Approx. 2 km
- Tarra Valley Hotel (Bistro) – Approx. 5 km
- Numerous cafes and bakeries in Yarram – Approx. 30 km
- Local Attractions:
- Tarra-Bulga National Park Visitor Centre – Approx. 2 km
- Corrigan Suspension Bridge – Within walking distance
- Cyathea Falls – Within walking distance
- Historic town of Yarram – Approx. 30 km
- Nearest Caravan Parks:
- Tarra Valley Caravan Park “Fernholme” – Approx. 5 km
- Yarram Holiday Park – Approx. 30 km
- Next Free Camps:
- White Woman’s Waterhole (Won Wron State Forest) – Approx. 40 km
- Nearest Dump Points:
- Yarram Public Dump Point – Approx. 30 km
- Nearest Petrol Station:
- Yarram has multiple options – Approx. 30 km
- Drinking Water Resupply:
- Public Toilets:
- Available onsite (non-flush).
Seasonal Weather Forecast
- Summer (Dec-Feb): Mild to warm and can be humid in the rainforest, averaging 14-26°C.
- Autumn (Mar-May): Cool and often calm, the best time for photography with misty mornings, averaging 9-21°C.
- Winter (Jun-Aug): Cold and wet, the peak season for flowing waterfalls and lush green ferns. Averaging 5-14°C.
- Spring (Sep-Nov): Cool and crisp, with frequent showers bringing the forest to life. Averaging 8-19°C.
