Raymond Creek Falls Campground, Snowy River National Park
Nestled deep within the rugged and spectacular landscapes of the Snowy River National Park in East Gippsland, Raymond Creek Falls Campground offers a serene escape for nature lovers and adventurers. This secluded, free camping area provides an authentic Australian bush experience, far from the hustle and bustle of city life. The journey to the campground itself is an adventure, traversing gravel roads that wind through magnificent forests, rewarding travellers with tranquillity and stunning natural beauty upon arrival. The campground is situated near the magnificent Raymond Creek Falls, a picturesque 20-metre waterfall that cascades over a uniquely coloured rock face into a deep, inviting pool below. A well-maintained walking track provides access to both a viewing platform and the base of the falls, making it a perfect spot for photography, a refreshing dip in the warmer months, or simply quiet contemplation.
The campground operates on a first-come, first-served basis and provides basic but essential facilities for a comfortable stay. It’s an ideal base for exploring the wider national park, with opportunities for four-wheel driving, bushwalking, and wildlife spotting. The sounds of the bush, from the call of native birds to the gentle rustle of leaves, create a peaceful soundtrack for your stay. As a remote campsite, it’s crucial for visitors to be self-sufficient, bringing all necessary supplies including drinking water, food, and fuel. This preparation ensures a safe and enjoyable experience in one of Victoria’s most impressive natural settings. Whether you’re setting up a tent for a weekend getaway or stopping over on a larger exploration of the region, Raymond Creek Falls Campground is a genuine gem for those seeking to connect with the wild heart of Australia.
Campground Details
- Name: Raymond Creek Falls Campground
- Address: 1125 Moorsford Road, Yalmy, VIC 3885, Australia
- GPS Coordinates: -37.48582451132564, 148.3084874556706
- Website: Parks Victoria Official Page
Campground Location Map
Features & Facilities
- Location: Located within Snowy River National Park, East Gippsland.
- Road Access: Accessible via unsealed gravel roads (Yalmy Road and Moorsford Road). Generally 2WD accessible, but conditions can vary. 4WD is recommended, especially after rain.
- Site Surface: Dirt and natural ground.
- Camping Permitted: Yes, free camping.
- Maximum Overnight Stays: No specified maximum, but long-term stays are discouraged.
- Facilities: Picnic tables, wood-fired BBQs.
- Potable Water: No. You must bring all your own drinking water.
- Mobile Phone Coverage: No. Coverage is extremely unlikely. Expect to be offline.
- Onsite Public Toilets: Yes, non-flush toilets are available.
- Rubbish Bins: No. This is a carry-in, carry-out site. Please take all your rubbish with you.
- Open Fires: Permitted in designated fire pits, subject to seasonal fire restrictions. Check Parks Victoria for current fire bans. Bring your own firewood.
- Generator Use: Permitted, but please be considerate of other campers regarding noise and fumes.
- Number of Sites Available: Approximately 6-8 unmarked sites.
- Essentials to Bring: Drinking water, food, firewood, rubbish bags, insect repellent, first-aid kit.
- Pet Friendly: No. Pets are not permitted in Snowy River National Park.
- Fishing: Possible in the nearby Snowy River, but not directly at the falls. A Victorian fishing licence is required.
- Short Walks: Yes, a 40-minute return walk to the base of Raymond Creek Falls.
Nearby Services & Attractions
Note: The campground is remote. The nearest town with comprehensive services is Orbost.
- Local Pubs (in Orbost): The Commonwealth Hotel (~45 km), The Orbost Club (~45 km), Marlo Hotel (in Marlo, ~60 km).
- Places to Eat (in Orbost): A range of cafes, bakeries, and takeaway shops are available (~45 km).
- Local Attractions: Raymond Creek Falls (on site), Snowy River National Park, McKillops Bridge (~90 km north), Tulloch Ard Gorge Lookout.
- Nearest Caravan Parks (in Orbost): Orbost Caravan Park (~45 km), Orbost Riverglen Caravan Park (~45 km).
- Next Free Camps: Balley Hooley Campground (~30 km), Hicks Camping Area (~50 km).
- Nearest Dump Points: Orbost Public Dump Point, 20 Forest Road, Orbost (~45 km).
- Nearest Petrol Station: Orbost (~45 km). Ensure you have sufficient fuel before heading to the campground.
- Drinking Water Resupply: Orbost Visitor Information Centre, 8 Clarke St, Orbost (~45 km).
- Nearest Public Toilets (offsite): Orbost (~45 km).
Seasonal Weather Forecast
- Summer (December – February): Days are typically warm to hot, but conditions can change rapidly. Nights can still be cool. High fire danger period.
- Autumn (March – May): Mild, clear, and stable days are common, making it an ideal time for bushwalking. Nights become colder.
- Winter (June – August): Cold and often wet. Nights are very cold with frequent frosts. Snowfall is possible at higher elevations in the park but less common at the campground itself.
- Spring (September – November): Cool to mild with variable weather. Wildflowers are in bloom, but it can be windy and wet.