Traralgon Creek CR1: Free, Pet-Friendly Camping in the Strzelecki Ranges

Escape into the lush, temperate rainforest of the Strzelecki Ranges at Traralgon Creek Campsite 1 (CR1), a fantastic free camping area for the self-sufficient adventurer. Located deep in the state forest south of Traralgon, this campground offers a genuine off-grid experience in a beautiful and remote setting. The campsite is a large, open, grassy area right beside the crystal-clear Traralgon Creek, surrounded by towering mountain ash and dense ferns. It’s a paradise for those looking to disconnect from the hustle and bustle and immerse themselves in the sounds of the forest and the gentle flow of the creek. The area is popular with 4WD enthusiasts and trail bike riders, who use it as a base to explore the extensive network of tracks that wind through the ranges.

This is a true bush camp with no facilities, meaning campers must be entirely self-contained. You will need to bring your own portable toilet, all your drinking water, and be prepared to take every piece of rubbish home with you. The reward for this level of preparation is a pristine, peaceful environment. The access via the winding, unsealed Traralgon Creek Road is scenic but can be challenging, especially after rain, making a 4WD or high-clearance vehicle the best option. As a State Forest campground, it is pet-friendly, allowing you to share the adventure with your dog. The creek itself is perfect for a refreshing dip on a warm day and offers opportunities for trout fishing. For a rugged, beautiful, and truly free camping experience, Traralgon Creek CR1 is an exceptional choice.

Campground Information

• Name: Traralgon Creek Campsite 1 (CR1)
• Address: Traralgon Creek Road, Traralgon South, Victoria 3844, Australia
• GPS Coordinates: -38.343486270747334, 146.5329412998773
• Website: Managed by Forest Fire Management Victoria (no direct website).

Features & Rules

• Location: Remote and scenic clearing beside Traralgon Creek in the Strzelecki State Forest.
• Site Suitable For: Tents, swags, and off-road camper trailers.
• Road Access: Winding, unsealed forest road. 4WD or high-clearance vehicle recommended.
• Site Surface: Natural grass and earth.
• Camping Permitted: Yes, free dispersed camping is permitted.
• Maximum Overnight Stays: No specified limit.
• Facilities: None. This is a completely self-sufficient campsite.
• Potable Water: No. You must bring your own drinking water.
• Mobile Phone Coverage: Non-existent.
• Onsite Public Toilets: No. A portable toilet is essential.
• Rubbish Bins: No. All rubbish must be taken with you.
• Open Fires: Permitted, subject to seasonal fire bans.
• Generator Use: Permitted, with consideration for other campers.
• Number of Sites Available: Several undesignated, unpowered sites.
• Essentials to Bring: Drinking water, portable toilet, firewood, rubbish bags, and all supplies.
• Pet Friendly: Yes, pets are permitted on a leash.
• Fishing: Possible in Traralgon Creek.
• Short Walks: Informal walks along the creek and through the forest.

Local Amenities & Attractions

• Local Pubs:
  • Royal Exchange Hotel (Traralgon) – approx. 20 km
  • Grand Junction Hotel (Traralgon) – approx. 20 km
  • The Star Hotel (Traralgon) – approx. 20 km
• Places to Eat:
  • A wide variety of restaurants, cafes, and takeaways in Traralgon – approx. 20 km
• Local Attractions:
  • Tarra Bulga National Park – nearby
  • Traralgon Railway Reservoir Conservation Reserve – approx. 20 km
  • Gippsland Plains Rail Trail

Nearby Parks & Services

• Nearest Caravan Parks:
  • BIG4 Traralgon Park Lane Holiday Park – approx. 25 km
  • Traralgon Lifestyle Village – approx. 25 km
• Nearest Alternate Free Camps:
  • Other dispersed sites within the Strzelecki State Forest.
• Nearest Dump Points:
  • BIG4 Traralgon Park Lane Holiday Park (check for public access/fee) – approx. 25 km
  • Morwell Recreation Reserve – approx. 30 km
• Nearest Petrol Station: Several options in Traralgon – approx. 20 km.
• Nearest Drinking Water Resupply: Public taps in Traralgon.
• Nearest Public Toilets: Traralgon town centre – approx. 20 km.

Seasonal Weather Forecast

• Summer (Dec-Feb): Warm and often humid, with cooler nights in the forest. Average maximum temperatures are around 26°C.
• Autumn (Mar-May): Mild, pleasant days and cool nights. The forest is particularly beautiful. Average maximums range from 16°C to 24°C.
• Winter (Jun-Aug): Cool and often wet, with cold nights. The access road can become slippery. Average maximums are around 13°C to 14°C.
• Spring (Sep-Nov): Mild and becoming warmer, with the forest lush and green. Average maximums range from 16°C to 22°C.