Derrinallum Recreation Reserve – Camp at the Foot of Mount Elephant

Set against the dramatic backdrop of Mount Elephant, the Derrinallum Recreation Reserve offers travellers an outstanding low-cost camping experience in the heart of Victoria’s volcanic plains. This community-run facility is a testament to country hospitality, providing a spacious, grassy, and well-maintained area for caravans, motorhomes, and campers. For a small donation, visitors gain access to a suite of amenities that are rare for a budget-friendly site, making it a popular and highly-regarded stopover for those exploring the Great Ocean Road to Grampians touring route. The reserve’s key feature is its breathtaking view of Mount Elephant, a perfectly formed conical volcano that dominates the landscape and invites exploration.

The reserve is exceptionally well-equipped. Campers have access to a clean toilet and shower block, a public dump point, and potable water, covering all the essential needs for a comfortable stay. The large, open area ensures plenty of room for all vehicle sizes, from small campervans to the largest big rigs. Its location on the Hamilton Highway within the Derrinallum township means that supplies are never far away, with a local pub, general store, and cafe just a short walk from the campground. The main attraction, of course, is the walk to the summit of Mount Elephant, which offers panoramic 360-degree views of the surrounding volcanic lakes and plains – a truly unforgettable experience. With its blend of natural beauty, excellent facilities, and incredible value, the Derrinallum Recreation Reserve is a must-visit destination for any traveller in Western Victoria.

Site Information

• Name: Derrinallum Recreation Reserve
• Address: Hamilton Hwy, Derrinallum VIC 3325, Australia

• GPS Coordinates: -37.948753, 143.228553

• Website: Community managed. Information may be on the Corangamite Shire website.

Campground Details

• Location: In the town of Derrinallum on the Hamilton Highway, directly opposite Mount Elephant.
• Site Suitable For: All vehicle sizes, including big rigs, caravans, and motorhomes.
• Road Access: Sealed road access.
• Site Surface: Mostly flat grass.
• Camping Permitted: Yes, camping is permitted for a donation (honesty box available).
• Maximum Overnight Stays: Typically limited to 72 hours.
• Facilities: Toilets, showers (may require a key from the info centre), dump point, potable water.
• Potable Water: Yes, available on site.
• Mobile Phone Coverage: Good for Telstra, patchy for others.
• TV Reception: Good.
• Onsite Public Toilets: Yes.
• Rubbish Bins: Yes.
• Open Fires: Generally not permitted. Check local fire restrictions.
• Generator Use: Permitted with consideration for other campers.
• Number of Sites Available: Large, unmarked area with plenty of space.
• Essentials to Bring: Cash for donation, walking shoes for Mount Elephant.
• Pet Friendly: Yes, pets are welcome on a leash.
• Fishing: Nearby opportunities at Lake Tooliorook and other local lakes.
• Short Walks: The walk to the summit of Mount Elephant is a must-do.

Local Amenities & Attractions

• Local Pubs:
  • Derrinallum Hotel: Approx. 500 m
  • Lismore Hotel, Lismore: Approx. 15 km
  • Skipton Hotel, Skipton: Approx. 40 km
• Places to Eat:
  • Derrinallum Hotel (pub meals): Approx. 500 m
  • Local cafe and general store in town.
• Local Attractions:
  • Mount Elephant Walking Trail: Approx. 1 km
  • Lake Tooliorook (fishing and birdwatching): Approx. 10 km
  • The Stony Rises scenic drive
• Nearest Caravan Parks:
  • Lismore Caravan Park: Approx. 15 km
• Next Free Camps:
  • Lake Bolac Foreshore Camping Ground: Approx. 40 km
• Nearest Dump Points:
  • Located on-site at the reserve.
• Nearest Petrol Station:
  • Available in Derrinallum township.
• Drinking Water Resupply:
  • Available on-site.
• Public Toilets (offsite):
  • Located in the main street park.

Seasonal Weather Forecast

• Summer (Dec-Feb): Warm to hot and typically dry. Can be windy. Temperatures often in the high 20s to low 30s (°C).
• Autumn (Mar-May): Pleasant, with clear, sunny days and cool evenings. Ideal for hiking. Temperatures average 9°C to 23°C.
• Winter (Jun-Aug): Cold and often wet, with heavy morning frosts. Average temperatures range from 4°C to 14°C.
• Spring (Sep-Nov): Mild and sunny but can be very windy across the plains. A great time to see the green landscape. Temperatures average 7°C to 19°C.