Nestled at the base of the magnificent Mount Noorat, one of the largest dry volcanic craters in Australia, the Noorat Recreation Reserve is a jewel in the crown of Victoria’s volcanic plains. This outstanding community-run campground offers travellers an incredibly well-equipped and scenic base for a small donation. The reserve provides a huge, flat, and beautifully maintained grassy area, perfect for caravans, motorhomes, and campers of all sizes. It’s a place rich in community spirit and natural wonder, where you can wake up to the stunning silhouette of the dormant volcano and enjoy a peaceful, friendly atmosphere.
The facilities at Noorat are far superior to what you would expect from a low-cost camp and are a testament to the town’s pride. Campers have access to numerous powered sites, a clean and modern amenities block with toilets and hot showers, a public dump point, and potable water. This level of service provides all the comforts needed for a relaxing stay. The historic town of Noorat itself, with its famous Neil Black Memorial Clocktower, is just a short stroll away. The key attraction is the invigorating walk to the summit of Mount Noorat, which rewards hikers with breathtaking 360-degree views across the vast volcanic landscape. The reserve is also perfectly positioned for exploring the major service town of Terang and is an easy day trip from the Great Ocean Road, making it an ideal stop on a wider tour of Western Victoria. For unparalleled value, excellent facilities, and a truly unique setting, the Noorat Recreation Reserve is a must-visit destination.
Noorat Recreation Reserve – VIC Location Map
Noorat Recreation Reserve
- Address: Morack St, Noorat VIC 3265, Australia
- GPS Coordinates: -38.191074, 142.936894
Campground Details
- Location: In the town of Noorat, at the base of Mount Noorat, near Terang.
- Site Suitable For: All vehicle types, including the largest motorhomes and caravans.
- Road Access: Sealed road access.
- Site Surface: Mostly flat grass.
- Camping Permitted: Yes, camping is by donation, payable via an honesty box.
- Maximum Overnight Stays: Flexible, but short to medium-term stays are standard.
- Facilities: Powered sites, toilets, hot showers, dump point.
- Potable Water: Yes, available on site.
- Mobile Phone Coverage: Good for all major carriers.
- TV Reception: Good.
- Onsite Public Toilets: Yes.
- Rubbish Bins: Yes.
- Open Fires: Generally not permitted. Please check local fire regulations.
- Generator Use: Permitted with consideration for others, though powered sites are available.
- Number of Sites Available: Very large, unmarked area with plenty of space.
- Essentials to Bring: Cash for donation, good walking shoes for the mountain climb.
- Pet Friendly: Yes, pets are welcome on a leash (but are not permitted on the Mount Noorat walking track).
- Fishing: Good fishing opportunities in nearby lakes like Lake Keilambete and Lake Bullen Merri.
- Short Walks: The walk to the summit of Mount Noorat is the premier attraction.
Local Amenities & Attractions
- Local Pubs:
- Mount Noorat Hotel: Approx. 1 km
- Commercial Hotel, Terang: Approx. 10 km
- Wheatsheaf Hotel, Terang: Approx. 10 km
- Places to Eat:
- The Bookworm & Brew, Terang: Approx. 10 km
- Terang Bakery: Approx. 10 km
- Pub meals available at all local hotels.
- Local Attractions:
- Mount Noorat Summit Walk: Approx. 1 km
- Terang Post Office & Historic Clock Tower: Approx. 10 km
- Lake Keilambete Lookout: Approx. 12 km
- Nearest Caravan Parks:
- Terang Caravan Park: Approx. 10 km
- Lake Purrumbete Holiday Park: Approx. 30 km
- Next Free Camps:
- Derrinallum Recreation Reserve: Approx. 45 km
- Nearest Dump Points:
- Located on-site at the reserve.
- Nearest Petrol Station:
- Multiple major stations in Terang: Approx. 10 km
- Drinking Water Resupply:
- Public Toilets (offsite):
- Located in the main street park in Terang.
Seasonal Weather Forecast
- Summer (Dec-Feb): Warm to hot and typically dry. Can be windy across the plains. Temperatures often in the high 20s (°C).
- Autumn (Mar-May): Pleasant, with clear, sunny days and cool evenings. Ideal for hiking. Temperatures average 9°C to 23°C.
- Winter (Jun-Aug): Cold and often wet, with heavy morning frosts. Average temperatures range from 5°C to 14°C.
- Spring (Sep-Nov): Mild and sunny but can be very windy. A great time to see the green landscape. Temperatures average 8°C to 19°C.
