Dunkeld Rest Stop – Gateway to the Grampians Free Camping VIC

Perfectly positioned at the southern gateway to the magnificent Grampians National Park (Gariwerd), the Dunkeld Rest Stop is an essential stopover for travellers exploring one of Victoria’s most treasured natural landscapes. Located just a stone’s throw from the charming town of Dunkeld on the Glenelg Highway, this site offers a practical and convenient free camping option for those in self-contained vehicles. It serves as an ideal base for an early morning start on the nearby hiking trails or as a restful night’s sleep after a long day’s drive. While the facilities are basic, its strategic location is its greatest asset, placing the dramatic peaks of Mount Sturgeon and Mount Abrupt right on your doorstep.

The rest area is a simple, sealed drive-through bay, designed for easy access for caravans, motorhomes, and other recreational vehicles travelling in either direction. The surface is mostly bitumen, providing a level and stable ground for an overnight stay. There is adequate space for several vehicles, though it can be popular during peak seasons due to its proximity to the Grampians. Onsite, travellers will find essential amenities including public toilets and rubbish bins, catering for the basic needs of a short stay. It’s important to note that there is no potable water or power available, reinforcing the need for campers to be fully self-sufficient. The nearby town of Dunkeld, renowned for its famous Royal Mail Hotel and quaint cafes, is only a few minutes’ drive away, offering access to supplies, fuel, and excellent dining options. For those seeking a no-cost camp that prioritises location over luxury, the Dunkeld Rest Stop is an unbeatable choice.

Site Information

• Name: Dunkeld Rest Stop
• Address: Glenelg Highway, Dunkeld VIC 3294, Australia

• GPS Coordinates: -37.654191, 142.319730

• Website: Not available

Rest Area Details

• Location: On the Glenelg Highway, just west of Dunkeld.
• Site Suitable For: Self-contained caravans, RVs, and motorhomes.
• Road Access: Sealed highway.
• Site Surface: Bitumen / Asphalt.
• Camping Permitted: Yes, informal overnight stays permitted.
• Maximum Overnight Stays: 24 hours.
• Facilities: Basic amenities only.
• Potable Water: Not available.
• Mobile Phone Coverage: Good coverage for Telstra and Optus.
• TV Reception: Good.
• Onsite Public Toilets: No.
• Rubbish Bins: Yes.
• Open Fires: Strictly forbidden.
• Generator Use: Permitted, but please be considerate of others.
• Number of Sites Available: Unmarked, space for approximately 5-8 vehicles.
• Essentials to Bring: Drinking water and all camping supplies.
• Pet Friendly: Yes, pets must be leashed. Note: pets are not permitted in most of the Grampians National Park.
• Fishing: Not available onsite. Fishing opportunities in nearby rivers and lakes.
• Short Walks: Dunkeld Arboretum walk is nearby. Major hiking trails are a short drive away.

Local Amenities & Attractions

• Local Pubs:
  • Royal Mail Hotel, Dunkeld: Approx. 3 km
  • Commercial Hotel, Hamilton: Approx. 30 km
  • Bunyip Hotel, Cavendish: Approx. 25 km
• Places to Eat:
  • Dunkeld Old Bakery: Approx. 3 km
  • Izzy’s Cafe, Dunkeld: Approx. 3 km
• Local Attractions:
  • Grampians National Park (Southern Entry): Approx. 5 km
  • Mount Sturgeon and Mount Abrupt Hiking Trails: Approx. 6 km
  • Dunkeld Visitor Information Centre: Approx. 3 km
• Nearest Caravan Parks:
  • Dunkeld Caravan Park: Approx. 4 km
• Next Free Camps:
  • Wannon Falls Campground: Approx. 25 km
  • Lake Hamilton Foreshore: Approx. 30 km
• Nearest Dump Points:
  • Dunkeld Caravan Park (for guests, or fee may apply): Approx. 4 km
  • Hamilton Showgrounds Public Dump Point: Approx. 30 km
• Nearest Petrol Station:
  • United Petroleum, Dunkeld: Approx. 3 km
• Drinking Water Resupply:
  • Dunkeld Visitor Information Centre: Approx. 3 km (check availability)
• Public Toilets (offsite):
  • Parker Street, Dunkeld: Approx. 3 km

Seasonal Weather Forecast

• Summer (Dec-Feb): Warm to hot and generally dry. Average temperatures range from 13°C to 28°C. High fire danger risk.
• Autumn (Mar-May): Mild days and cool nights, perfect for hiking. Temperatures between 9°C and 22°C.
• Winter (Jun-Aug): Cold and often wet. Average temperatures of 5°C to 13°C. Frost is common and higher peaks can get snow.
• Spring (Sep-Nov): Cool to mild, known for spectacular wildflower displays. Temperatures average 8°C to 19°C.