Ollies Jumpup Camp Area: Remote Free Camping on the Dargo River

For those seeking a genuine off-grid adventure in the heart of the Victorian High Country, Ollies Jumpup offers a spectacular free camping experience on the banks of the iconic Dargo River. This remote and peaceful campground is a favourite among 4WD enthusiasts and self-sufficient campers who value solitude and a true connection with nature. Situated a scenic drive north of the Dargo township, the campground is a large, flat, and grassy area set on a beautiful bend in the river, surrounded by the steep, forested hills that define the region. The sense of being deep within the alpine wilderness is profound, with the sounds of the flowing river and native birdlife as your constant companions.

Ollies Jumpup is the perfect destination for those looking to get away from it all. The campground provides basic but welcome amenities, including a non-flush toilet, picnic tables, and established fire pits for an authentic campfire experience under the stars. The Dargo River itself is a major drawcard, offering pristine, clear waters perfect for swimming on a hot day, launching a kayak, or casting a line for trout. As it’s located in the state forest, it is a pet-friendly site, allowing dogs to join in on the high country adventure. Access is via the unsealed Upper Dargo Road, and a 4WD vehicle is highly recommended, particularly in wet conditions. Campers must be completely self-sufficient, bringing in all their own drinking water, firewood, and supplies, and are required to take all rubbish with them. For an unforgettable escape into one of Victoria’s most rugged and beautiful landscapes, Ollies Jumpup is an exceptional choice.

Campground Information

• Name: Ollies Jumpup Camp Area
• Address: Upper Dargo Road, Dargo, VIC 3862, Australia
• GPS Coordinates: Latitude: -37.3857, Longitude: 147.2779
• Website: Managed by Forest Fire Management Victoria (no dedicated site).

Features & Facilities

• Location: Remote riverside setting in the Dargo High Country.
• Site Suitable For: Tents, camper trailers, and off-road caravans.
• Road Access: Unsealed road. 4WD is highly recommended, especially in wet conditions.
• Site Surface: Grass and dirt.
• Camping Permitted: Yes, free camping.
• Maximum Overnight Stays: Standard state forest limits apply (typically up to 28 days).
• Facilities: Non-flush toilet, picnic tables, fire pits.
• Potable Water: No. Bring your own or treat river water.
• Mobile Phone Coverage: None. Emergency communication device is essential.
• Onsite Public Toilets: Yes, a long-drop toilet is available.
• Rubbish Bins: No. Carry-in, carry-out policy applies.
• Open Fires: Permitted in designated fire pits, subject to local fire restrictions.
• Generator Use: Permitted, with consideration for other campers.
• Number of Sites Available: Numerous unmarked, dispersed sites.
• Essentials to Bring: All drinking water, firewood, food, rubbish bags, and an emergency communication device.
• Pet Friendly: Yes, pets are permitted on a leash.
• Fishing: Yes, in the Dargo River.
• Short Walks: Informal tracks along the river and into the surrounding forest.

Local Amenities & Attractions

• Local Pubs:
  • Dargo Hotel – approx. 12 km
  • Dargo River Inn – approx. 14 km
• Places to Eat:
  • Dargo Hotel Bistro – approx. 12 km
  • Dargo General Store (takeaway) – approx. 12 km
• Local Attractions:
  • Dargo High Plains
  • Wonnangatta Valley (4WD access)
  • Historic gold mining areas
  • Grant Historic Area

Nearby Parks & Services

• Nearest Caravan Parks:
  • Dargo River Inn – approx. 14 km
  • Wonnangatta Caravan Park (check for operational status) – approx. 13 km
• Nearest Alternate Free Camps:
  • Italian Flat Campground
  • Meyers Flat Camp Area
  • 2 Mile Creek Reserve
• Nearest Dump Points:
  • Bairnsdale Public Dump Point – approx. 110 km
  • Omeo Caravan Park Public Dump Point – approx. 140 km
• Nearest Petrol Station: Dargo General Store – approx. 12 km.
• Nearest Drinking Water Resupply: Dargo.
• Nearest Public Toilets: Available onsite. Also in Dargo township.

Seasonal Weather Forecast

• Summer (Dec-Feb): Warm days perfect for river activities, with cool nights. Average maximums are around 25°C.
• Autumn (Mar-May): Mild days and crisp nights with beautiful autumn colours. Average maximums range from 14°C to 22°C.
• Winter (Jun-Aug): Cold days and very cold nights, with frequent frosts. Higher tracks may see snow. Average maximums are around 11°C.
• Spring (Sep-Nov): Cool to mild days as the country greens up. Average maximums range from 15°C to 20°C.