Rocklands Caravan Park | Fishing & Boating on Rocklands Reservoir
For those seeking a genuine escape into the Victorian bush, Rocklands Caravan Park offers an unbeatable location on the banks of the sprawling Rocklands Reservoir. This is a classic, no-fuss holiday park that prioritises access to nature and world-class freshwater fishing over resort-style luxuries. Renowned amongst anglers and boating enthusiasts, the park provides the ultimate basecamp for exploring the vast waterways, which are famous for their healthy populations of redfin, yellowbelly, and trout. Situated on the western edge of the Grampians (Gariwerd) National Park, the rugged landscape provides a stunning backdrop for your adventures, whether you’re out on the water at sunrise or relaxing by a campfire under the brilliant night sky.
The park offers a range of simple yet comfortable accommodation options, including powered and unpowered sites suitable for everything from tents to large caravans. The main drawcard is its direct access to the water, with a boat ramp located conveniently nearby, making it effortless to launch your vessel for a day of fishing or water sports. The atmosphere is relaxed and friendly, reflecting the shared passion of its visitors for the great outdoors. While facilities are basic, they are well-maintained and provide all the essentials for a comfortable stay, including an amenities block and potable water. It’s a place where kids can ride their bikes freely and the family dog can join in the fun. If your idea of a perfect holiday involves disconnecting from technology, casting a line into serene waters, and enjoying the simple pleasures of a bush setting, Rocklands Caravan Park is your ideal destination.
Address: 1446 Rocklands Rd, Rocklands VIC 3401
GPS Coordinates: -37.23030070763711, 141.95962986430408
Park Information
- Location: Situated directly on the shoreline of Rocklands Reservoir, approximately 25km from Balmoral.
- Site suitable for: Tents, camper trailers, caravans, and motorhomes.
- Road access: Sealed road access via Rocklands Road.
- Site surface: A mix of dirt, gravel, and some grass. Natural bush setting.
- Camping permitted: Yes, paid camping with powered and unpowered sites available.
- Maximum overnight stays: Subject to booking and availability.
- Facilities: Amenities block with toilets and hot showers, kiosk (check opening hours), boat ramp nearby.
- Potable water: Yes, available on site.
- Mobile phone coverage: Very limited. Telstra offers the best chance of service in specific spots, but do not rely on it.
- TV reception: Poor to non-existent.
- Onsite public toilets: Yes, amenities block for paying guests.
- Rubbish bins: Yes, bins are provided.
- Open fires: Generally permitted in designated areas or fire pits, but strictly subject to seasonal fire bans. Bring your own firewood.
- Generator use: Permitted, but with consideration for other campers (check with management for time restrictions).
- Number of sites available: A good number of sites spread throughout the park.
- Essentials to bring: All fishing and boating gear, recovery equipment if venturing onto tracks, insect repellent, firewood, and all food/drink supplies as the nearest town is a drive away.
- Pet friendly: Yes, pets are welcome but must be kept under control.
- Fishing: Excellent. The main reason for visiting. Famous for redfin, yellowbelly, trout, and Murray cod. A Victorian fishing licence is required.
- Short walks: Bushwalking around the reservoir shoreline and exploring the nearby state forest and Grampians tracks.
Local Amenities & Attractions
- Local Pubs:
- Western Hotel, Balmoral (approx. 25 km)
- Derrinallum Hotel (further afield, but an option)
- Bunyip Hotel, Cavendish (approx. 45 km)
- Places to Eat:
- Limited to the local pubs. It’s best to be self-sufficient.
- Balmoral and Cavendish have basic supplies.
- Local Attractions:
- Rocklands Reservoir (fishing, boating, kayaking)
- Black Range State Park (hiking, Aboriginal rock art)
- Western side of the Grampians National Park
- Bailey’s Rocks
- Nearest Caravan Parks:
- There are no other caravan parks in the immediate vicinity. The next closest options are in Halls Gap or Horsham.
- Next Free Camps:
- Numerous free camping spots around the reservoir, such as Fergusons, Glendinning, and Henham campgrounds.
- Nearest Dump Points:
- Balmoral Recreation Reserve (approx. 25 km).
- Cavendish Recreation Reserve (approx. 45 km).
- Nearest Petrol Station:
- Balmoral (approx. 25 km).
- Drinking Water Resupply:
- Available on-site.
- Public Toilets (offsite):
- Located in the Balmoral township (approx. 25 km).
Seasonal Weather Forecast
- Summer (Dec-Feb): Hot and dry, ideal for water sports but carries a high risk of bushfires. Average temperatures range from 15°C to 32°C.
- Autumn (Mar-May): Warm days and cooler nights make for pleasant camping and prime fishing conditions. Average temperatures range from 9°C to 24°C.
- Winter (Jun-Aug): Cold and can be wet. A great time for targeting trout and enjoying big campfires. Average temperatures range from 4°C to 14°C.
- Spring (Sep-Nov): Mild and cool, with the surrounding bushland coming to life. A good time for fishing for yellowbelly. Average temperatures range from 7°C to 22°C.