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Shaw Creek Billabong
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Shaw Creek Billabong, Snowy River National Park

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Shaw Creek Billabong, Snowy River National Park

★★★☆☆ (4.9/5) – For the truly self-sufficient 4WD explorer.
Shaw Creek Billabong is a primitive bush campsite for the dedicated 4WD adventurer seeking a true wilderness experience in the vast and remote Snowy River National Park. This is not a destination for the casual weekend camper; it’s an isolated spot that rewards those with the right vehicle and a spirit of complete self-sufficiency. Access is via a network of challenging 4WD tracks, such as Varneys Track, which are often steep, rocky, and subject to seasonal closures and weather conditions. The campsite itself is a small, natural clearing beside a tranquil billabong on Shaw Creek, deep within the rugged forested landscape. It offers profound solitude and an authentic connection to one of Victoria’s wildest and most spectacular national parks.This campground is the definition of basic. There are absolutely no facilities on-site – no toilets, no water, no picnic tables, and no bins. Visitors must be meticulously prepared, bringing everything they need, including a portable toilet system, all drinking water, and the means to carry out every piece of rubbish to leave no trace. As it is situated within a national park, strict regulations apply: pets and generators are not permitted, preserving the natural peace and protecting the native fauna. Fires may be permitted in line with park rules, but fuel stoves are a more reliable and often mandatory option, especially during high-risk seasons. The reward for this level of preparation is an unparalleled sense of remoteness. The area is a haven for experienced bushwalkers, wildlife photographers, and those simply looking to escape civilisation entirely. For the well-equipped explorer, Shaw Creek Billabong is a gateway to the untamed heart of the Snowy River region.

  • Name and Address: Shaw Creek Billabong, Varneys Track, Snowy River National Park, Wulgulmerang, VIC 3885, Australia
  • GPS Coordinates: -37.456868856462826, 146.7418205261499
  • Website: Parks Victoria – Snowy River National Park

Campground Information & Features

  • Location: Remote area of Snowy River National Park, accessed via 4WD tracks.
  • Site Suitable For: Tents and swags only.
  • Road Access: 4WD only. Tracks are difficult and subject to seasonal closures (June-October).
  • Site Surface: Natural forest clearing.
  • Camping Permitted: Yes, free dispersed camping.
  • Maximum Overnight Stays: Standard national park regulations apply.
  • Facilities: None.
  • Potable Water: No. Bring all your own water. Creek water must be treated.
  • Mobile Phone Coverage: None. A satellite communication device is essential.
  • Onsite Public Toilets: No. A portable toilet system is mandatory.
  • Rubbish Bins: No. All rubbish must be carried out.
  • Open Fires: Prohibited. Fuel stoves must be used.
  • Generator Use: Prohibited in the National Park.
  • Number of Sites Available: Small clearing suitable for 1-2 small parties.
  • Essentials to Bring: All water, portable toilet, fuel stove, vehicle recovery gear, detailed maps, PLB/sat phone, first-aid kit.
  • Pet Friendly: No. Pets are not permitted in Snowy River National Park.
  • Fishing: Possible in nearby creeks for experienced anglers.
  • Short Walks: This is a base for remote, unmarked bushwalking for experienced hikers only.

Nearby Amenities & Attractions (All are very distant)

  • Local Pubs:
    • Buchan Caves Hotel (Buchan) – Approx. 60 km (via slow tracks and main roads)
    • Delegate Hotel (Delegate, NSW) – Approx. 70 km
    • Bonang Hotel (Bonang) – Approx. 40 km
  • Places to Eat:
    • Buchan (Pub, General Store) – Approx. 60 km
    • Orbost (Various options) – Approx. 100 km
  • Local Attractions:
    • Snowy River National Park’s remote wilderness
    • Little River Gorge
    • McKillops Bridge
  • Nearest Caravan Parks:
    • Buchan Caves Reserve (Camping with fees) – Approx. 60 km
    • Orbost Caravan Park – Approx. 100 km
  • Next Free Camps:
    • Jacksons Crossing – Approx. 30 km (4WD only)
    • Waratah Flat – Approx. 40 km (4WD only)
  • Nearest Dump Points:
    • Wulgulmerang Recreation Reserve – Approx. 25 km
    • Buchan – Approx. 60 km
  • Nearest Petrol Station:
    • Buchan – Approx. 60 km
    • Orbost – Approx. 100 km
  • Drinking Water Resupply:
    • Buchan or Orbost are the last reliable towns. You must be self-sufficient.
  • Nearest Public Toilets (offsite):
    • Wulgulmerang Recreation Reserve – Approx. 25 km

Seasonal Weather Forecast: Wulgulmerang / Snowy River High Plains

  • Summer (Dec-Feb): Weather is highly variable. Days can be hot, but conditions can change to cold and wet rapidly. High fire danger.
  • Autumn (Mar-May): Often the most stable and pleasant season for exploring the high country. Expect mild days and cold nights.
  • Winter (Jun-Aug): Inaccessible. Tracks are closed due to deep snow, ice, and hazardous conditions.
  • Spring (Sep-Nov): Tracks typically remain closed until late November. The area is subject to cold, wet, and snowy conditions.

 

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