Ollies Jumpup: Free Riverside Camping in the Victorian High Country

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.

Campground Information

• Name: 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.