Wannon Falls Camping: A Stunning Roadside Stop in the Western District
The recreation area is thoughtfully equipped for visitors, making it an ideal stopover or a destination for a relaxing weekend. Facilities include well-maintained public toilets, free electric barbecues, undercover picnic tables, and ample rubbish bins, ensuring a comfortable and convenient stay. A cantilevered viewing platform extends out over the gorge, offering breathtaking, uninterrupted views of the falls and the surrounding landscape. For those wanting to stretch their legs, a walking track leads down into the valley, providing a different perspective from the base of the falls. The area is rich in both natural beauty and Indigenous history, creating a peaceful and engaging atmosphere.
Its prime location makes Wannon Falls a fantastic base for exploring the attractions of the Southern Grampians region. The equally impressive Nigretta Falls are just a few minutes’ drive away, and the town of Hamilton, with its beautiful botanic gardens, art gallery, and full range of services, is conveniently close. Whether you’re breaking up a long journey, seeking a beautiful spot for a picnic, or looking for a tranquil and free place to camp for the night, the Wannon Falls Recreation Area delivers an outstanding experience. It’s a perfect example of regional tourism at its finest, blending dramatic natural scenery with excellent visitor amenities.
Address: Wannon-Nigretta Road, Wannon, Victoria, 3303, Australia
GPS Coordinates: -37.67451165916155, 141.84700104772367
Website: Southern Grampians Shire Council
Camp Location Map
Campsite Features & Information
- Location: Western District of Victoria, approximately 20 km west of Hamilton.
- Site Suitable For: All vehicles, including tents, swags, campervans, motorhomes, and large caravans.
- Road Access: Excellent. Sealed road right to the entrance. 2WD accessible.
- Site Surface: Grass and some gravel areas.
- Camping Permitted: Yes, free camping is permitted in the designated area.
- Maximum Overnight Stays: Generally 24-48 hours. Please obey any local signage.
- Facilities: Electric BBQs, picnic tables, undercover shelters.
- Potable Water: Yes, a tap is generally available. It’s always wise to boil water or use your own supply for drinking.
- Mobile Phone Coverage: Good coverage for major providers (Telstra, Optus).
- TV Reception: Good.
- Onsite Public Toilets: Yes, flushing toilets.
- Rubbish Bins: Yes.
- Open Fires: Not permitted. Use the provided electric BBQs.
- Generator Use: Not permitted.
- Number of Sites Available: Large open area with numerous unmarked sites. Can get busy.
- Essentials to Bring: While services are close, it’s always good to have basic camping gear and food supplies.
- Pet Friendly: Yes, pets are permitted on a leash.
- Fishing: Possible in the Wannon River, subject to local regulations (Victorian fishing license required).
- Short Walks: Yes, tracks to the viewing platform and down to the base of the falls.
Local Amenities & Attractions
- Local Pubs:
- The Grand Central Hotel, Hamilton: Approx. 20 km
- The Cally Hotel, Hamilton: Approx. 20 km
- The Argyle Arms Hotel, Hamilton: Approx. 20 km
- Places to Eat:
- Hamilton offers a wide range of cafes, bakeries, pubs, and restaurants: Approx. 20 km
- Local Attractions:
- Nigretta Falls Scenic Reserve: Approx. 9 km
- Hamilton Botanic Gardens: Approx. 20 km
- Hamilton Gallery: Approx. 20 km
- Ansett Transport Museum, Hamilton: Approx. 20 km
- Nearest Caravan Parks:
- Lake Hamilton Motor Village & Caravan Park: Approx. 18 km
- Hamilton Caravan Park: Approx. 21 km
- Next Free Camps:
- Nigretta Falls Scenic Reserve (day use, no camping)
- Greenwald rest area (further west on Princes Hwy): Approx 70km
- Nearest Dump Points:
- Hamilton Showgrounds: Approx. 22 km
- Coleraine Showgrounds: Approx 25km
- Nearest Petrol Station:
- Multiple service stations in Hamilton: Approx. 20 km
- Drinking Water Resupply:
- Onsite tap available, or in Hamilton.
- Nearest Public Toilets (Offsite):
- Multiple public toilets in Hamilton.
Seasonal Weather Forecast
- Summer (Dec-Feb): Days are typically warm to hot, with cooler evenings. The falls may have lower flow unless there has been recent rain. Prime season for bushfire awareness.
- Autumn (Mar-May): Pleasant, mild days and cool nights. A great time to visit as the landscape is often green.
- Winter (Jun-Aug): Cool to cold and often wet. The falls are at their most spectacular during this time due to higher rainfall.
- Spring (Sep-Nov): Mild days with a mix of sunshine and showers. The surrounding countryside is vibrant and green.