Nestled in the state forest just a stone’s throw from the southern shores of Lake Eildon, Taylors Camping Ground 1 offers an accessible and authentic bush camping experience for families, anglers, and 4WD tourers. Located off Walshs Road, this informal campground provides the perfect blend of convenience and nature, allowing for easy vehicle access while still feeling a world away from the hustle and bustle. It’s an ideal base for those who want to explore the land-based activities around Eildon, with the lake’s boat ramps and the charming Eildon township just a short drive away.

The campground is a classic state forest setup, featuring a series of natural clearings amongst the towering gum trees. It’s a spacious and relatively flat area, making it suitable for a wide range of setups, from simple tents and swags to off-road camper trailers and caravans. The atmosphere is relaxed and family-friendly, with plenty of room for kids to run around and explore. While you’re not directly on the water’s edge, the proximity to the lake is a major drawcard. A quick drive will have you at a boat ramp ready to launch for a day of fishing, water skiing, or simply cruising the magnificent waterway.

As a primitive state forest campground, there are no facilities, so campers must be completely self-sufficient. This means bringing all your own drinking water, a portable toilet, and rubbish bags to take everything home with you. This ‘leave no trace’ approach is vital for preserving the natural beauty of the area for all to enjoy. For those looking for an easy weekend getaway that combines the adventure of bush camping with the endless recreational possibilities of Lake Eildon, Taylors Camping Ground 1 is a fantastic and convenient choice.

Campsite Information

• Location: State Forest near the southern end of Lake Eildon, accessed via Walshs Road.
• Site Suitable For: Tents, swags, camper trailers, off-road caravans, and motorhomes.
• Road Access: Good. Generally 2WD accessible on unsealed gravel roads, though conditions can deteriorate after rain. AWD or 4WD is recommended.
• Site Surface: Dirt and grass.
• Camping Permitted: Yes, free, dispersed camping is permitted.
• Maximum Overnight Stays: No specified limit.
• Facilities: None. This is a primitive, self-sufficient campsite.
• Potable Water: No. You must bring all your own drinking water.
• Mobile Phone Coverage: Patchy to non-existent. May get some signal on higher ground.
• TV Reception: Unlikely.
• Onsite Public Toilets: No. A portable toilet and waste disposal system are essential.
• Rubbish Bins: No. A strict carry-in, carry-out policy applies.
• Open Fires: Permitted subject to local fire restrictions and Total Fire Bans. Use existing fire pits and ensure fires are fully extinguished.
• Generator Use: Permitted, but be considerate of other campers.
• Number of Sites Available: Numerous informal clearings of various sizes.
• Essentials to Bring: All water and food, portable toilet, rubbish bags, firewood, first-aid kit.
• Pet Friendly: Yes, dogs are permitted on-leash in Victorian State Forests.

Local Area & Amenities (Distances from Eildon township)

• Fishing: Excellent in nearby Lake Eildon and the Goulburn River. A Victorian Fishing Licence is required.
• Short Walks: Explore the numerous forest tracks in the surrounding area on foot or by mountain bike.
• Nearest Town for Supplies: Eildon (~10-15 km).
• Local Pubs:
  • Golden Trout Hotel (Eildon): ~12 km
  • Eildon General Store & Licensed Cafe (Eildon): ~12 km
  • Eildon Boat Club (check for public access): ~15 km
• Places to Eat:
  • Eildon township has a bakery, cafes, and several takeaway options.
• Local Attractions:
  • Eildon Pondage and Dam Wall.
  • Jerusalem Creek and Fraser National Park areas.
  • Snobs Creek Falls and fish hatchery.
• Nearest Caravan Parks:
  • Eildon Pondage Holiday Park.
  • Blue Gums Caravan Park Eildon.
• Next Free Camps: Many other free camps are located throughout the surrounding state forest, such as along the Goulburn River.
• Nearest Dump Points:
  • A public dump point is available in Eildon township.
• Nearest Petrol Station: Eildon township.
• Drinking Water Resupply: Fill all containers in Eildon township before heading to camp.
• Public Toilets: Located at public areas in Eildon, such as the boat ramps and visitor centre.

Seasonal Weather Forecast

• Summer (Dec-Feb): Hot and generally dry, perfect for accessing the lake. High fire danger. Average temperatures: 15°C to 31°C.
• Autumn (Mar-May): Mild, sunny days and cool nights. Ideal weather for camping and exploring. Average temperatures: 8°C to 23°C.
• Winter (Jun-Aug): Cold and often damp, with frosty mornings. Tracks can become slippery. Average temperatures: 3°C to 14°C.
• Spring (Sep-Nov): Cool to mild with variable weather. The forest is lush and green. Average temperatures: 7°C to 21°C.