Welcome to Flat Rock Camp Site 1, a hidden gem for nature lovers situated on the northern shores of Lake Lonsdale in Western Victoria. Nestled just a short distance from the historic township of Stawell and the gateway to the world-renowned Grampians National Park (Gariwerd), this campground offers a quintessential Australian bush camping experience. Lake Lonsdale is a large, shallow reservoir that serves as a vital environmental resource and a premier recreational hub for those seeking a tranquil escape from the faster pace of metropolitan life. Flat Rock Site 1 is particularly favoured by those who appreciate a quieter, more secluded atmosphere compared to the larger adjoining camping zones, providing a front-row seat to spectacular sunrises over the water and a clear view of the distant mountain ranges.
The camping experience at Lake Lonsdale is defined by its simplicity and the raw beauty of the Wimmera landscape. As a basic bush campground, Flat Rock Site 1 encourages self-sufficiency, making it a popular choice for experienced caravanners, 4WD enthusiasts, and those looking to disconnect for a weekend. The site is surrounded by native eucalypts that provide dappled shade throughout the day, while the sandy shorelines offer easy access for swimming, kayaking, and seasonal water sports. Because the lake is reliant on natural inflows, its character changes with the seasons—shifting from a vast aquatic playground in wetter years to a serene wetland environment that attracts a diverse array of birdlife and native wildlife, including kangaroos, emus, and wallabies, during the drier spells.
For those wishing to explore the wider region, Flat Rock Site 1 serves as an ideal base. Within a short drive, visitors can access the challenging hiking trails of the Grampians, visit local wineries, or explore the rich gold-mining heritage of Stawell. We promote a “leave no trace” philosophy to ensure the preservation of this unique environment for future generations. Whether you are here for a weekend of fishing for Redfin and Trout, or simply to relax by a campfire under a brilliant canopy of stars, Flat Rock Camp Site 1 provides the space and serenity required for a restorative outdoor journey. We invite you to experience the fresh country air and the quiet majesty of Lake Lonsdale on your next Victorian touring adventure. We look forward to seeing you at the lake soon.
Flat Rock Camp Site 1 – VIC Location Map
Flat Rock Camp Site 1 (Lake Lonsdale)
- Address: Sandbar Rd, Lake Lonsdale VIC 3381, Australia
- GPS Coordinates: -37.00769, 142.61696
Interactive Location Map
Site Information
- Location: Northern shore of Lake Lonsdale, accessed via Sandbar Road from the Western Highway.
- Site Suitable For: Big Rigs, Caravans, Motorhomes, Camper Trailers, and Tent Camping.
- Road Access: Sealed to Sandbar Road, followed by unsealed dirt/gravel tracks; 2WD accessible in dry weather.
- Site Surface: Natural ground consisting of sandy soil and grass under mature trees.
Facilities & Features
- Basic bush camping with limited designated fireplaces.
- Public pit toilets located at the North Boat Ramp (approx. 1km walk/drive).
- Boat ramp access nearby for water skiing and fishing.
- Skip bins are occasionally provided seasonally; please take all rubbish home.
- Generators permitted (must be within 10m of your own tent/rig).
- Fallen timber collection permitted for fire use within the reserve.
Essentials to Bring
- Drinking water (none available on-site).
- Solar panels or fully charged batteries (no power available).
- Self-contained toilet/shower facilities preferred.
- Levelling blocks for certain lakeside uneven patches.
Pet Friendly Features
- Dogs are permitted (strictly on-lead at all times within the reserve).
- Ample lakeside areas for walking your companion.
- Please clean up after your pets to maintain the natural environment.
Recreation & Nature
- Fishing: Good fishing for Redfin and Trout when water levels are sufficient.
- Short Walks: Shoreline walks along the lake edge and sandy bars.
Local Amenities
Nearby Pubs
- Diamond House Heritage Restaurant (Stawell) – Approx. 15km
- Royal Hotel Stawell – Approx. 16km
- Halls Gap Hotel – Approx. 22km
Places to Eat
- Stawell Town Centre Bakeries – Approx. 15km
- Halls Gap Cafes and Restaurants – Approx. 20km
- Gold Reef Chinese Restaurant (Stawell) – Approx. 16km
Local Attractions
- Grampians National Park (Gariwerd) – Approx. 20km
- Halls Gap Zoo – Approx. 20km
- Stawell Gift Hall of Fame – Approx. 16km
- Bunjil’s Shelter (Aboriginal Rock Art) – Approx. 35km
- Mount William Summit (Lookout) – Approx. 40km
Travel Services
- Caravan Parks: Breeze Holiday Parks – Grampians (approx. 9.5km); NRMA Halls Gap (approx. 10km).
- Free Camps: Flat Rock Camp Site 2 (adjacent); Diggers Rest Camping Areas (nearby).
- Dump Points: Stawell Public Dump Point (approx. 15km); Halls Gap Public Dump Point (approx. 20km).
- Petrol Stations: BP Stawell – Approx. 15km; Shell Stawell – Approx. 16km.
- Drinking Water: Stawell Public Taps/Parks – Approx. 15km.
- Public Toilets: Lake Lonsdale North Boat Ramp – Approx. 1km; Stawell CBD – Approx. 16km.
Seasonal Weather Forecast: Lake Lonsdale
- Summer (Dec-Feb): Warm to hot days (Avg 27°C – 32°C). High evaporation rates mean water levels can recede quickly.
- Autumn (Mar-May): Pleasant days (Avg 16°C – 23°C) and crisp nights. Excellent for fishing and birdwatching.
- Winter (Jun-Aug): Cool and often wet (Avg 10°C – 14°C). Ground can become soft; 4WD access is recommended.
- Spring (Sep-Nov): Fresh and green with blooming wildflowers. Average highs of 17°C – 24°C.