Ambler Lane Campground, Greendale VIC
For the self-sufficient camper seeking a true escape into the forest, Ambler Lane Campground is a fantastic free camping destination deep within the Wombat State Forest. This is a primitive, back-to-basics bush camp that offers a profound sense of peace and isolation, perfect for those looking to genuinely disconnect. The campground is a small, secluded clearing, nestled amongst the towering gum trees and dense undergrowth of the forest. It’s an intimate setting, ideal for tents, swags, and rugged camper trailers, where the only sounds you’ll hear are the crackle of your campfire and the rich chorus of the local birdlife, including kookaburras and lyrebirds.
The appeal of Ambler Lane lies in its utter simplicity. There are no facilities here—no toilets, no showers, no rubbish bins, and no tap water. This requires all visitors to be completely self-contained and to practice a strict ‘leave no trace’ ethic, carrying out every single item they bring in. This commitment ensures the site remains a pristine piece of wilderness for all to enjoy. The campground is also pet-friendly, allowing dogs to join the adventure on a leash. The opportunity to have a campfire in the provided pits is a major highlight, creating a classic and cosy bush camping experience under a canopy of brilliant stars, far from any city lights.
Its remote feel belies its convenient location. Ambler Lane is a superb base for exploring the surrounding forest’s network of 4WD tracks, mountain bike trails, and walking paths. The historic gold rush town of Blackwood is just a short, scenic drive away, offering a great pub meal and a glimpse into the region’s past. For a free, peaceful, and authentic forest stay, Ambler Lane Campground is a true gem for the well-prepared adventurer.
Site Information
- Location: In a secluded part of the Wombat State Forest, near Blackwood.
- Site Suitable For: Tents, Swags, Off-road Camper Trailers.
- Road Access: Unsealed forest tracks. A high-clearance 2WD may be suitable in dry conditions, but a 4WD is recommended as tracks can be slippery and rutted.
- Site Surface: Dirt and grass.
- Camping Permitted: Yes, free, informal camping.
- Maximum Overnight Stays: Unspecified, but short stays are expected.
- Number of Powered Sites: None.
- Number of Un-powered Sites: A small clearing with room for a handful of setups.
Facilities
- Facilities: None. This is a primitive bush camp.
- Picnic Tables: No.
- Potable Water: No. You must bring all your own water.
- Mobile Phone Coverage: None.
- TV Reception: None.
- Onsite Public Toilets: No. You must have your own toilet and take all waste with you.
- Ullage: No.
- Rubbish Bins: No. All rubbish must be taken with you.
- Open Fires: Permitted in existing fire pits, subject to seasonal fire restrictions and total fire bans.
- Generator Use: Permitted, but be very considerate of the quiet environment.
Essentials & Activities
- Essentials to Bring: Absolutely everything, including water, toilet, shower, power, food, rubbish bags, and firewood.
- Pet Friendly: Yes, dogs are permitted on a leash.
- Fishing: Not applicable.
- Short Walks: Excellent for bushwalking and exploring the surrounding forest.
Local Amenities
- Local Pubs:
- The Blackwood Hotel (approx. 10 km)
- Radio Springs Hotel, Lyonville (approx. 20 km)
- The Cosmopolitan Hotel, Trentham (approx. 25 km)
- Places to Eat: The Blackwood Hotel, or cafes and bakeries in Trentham and Ballan.
- Local Attractions:
- The historic gold rush town of Blackwood
- Lerderderg Heritage River Walk
- Garden of St Erth
- Wombat State Forest 4WD tracks
- Nearest Caravan Parks:
- Blackwood Mineral Springs Holiday Park (approx. 10 km)
- Firth Park Campground (low-cost, bookable)
- Next Free Camps: This is a primary free camp for the area. Other small, informal sites exist throughout the forest.
- Nearest Dump Points: Public dump points are available in Ballan and Daylesford.
- Nearest Petrol Station: Ballan (approx. 25 km) or Trentham (approx. 25 km).
- Drinking Water Resupply: Ballan or Trentham.
- Public Toilets: The nearest are in the town of Blackwood.
Seasonal Weather Forecast
- Summer (Dec – Feb): Warm to hot, but generally cooler than Melbourne due to the forest canopy and altitude. High fire danger period. Temperatures average 12°C to 26°C.
- Autumn (Mar – May): A beautiful season with mild, sunny days and cool nights. The forest colours are spectacular. Temperatures average 7°C to 20°C.
- Winter (Jun – Aug): Cold and often wet. Nights are very cold with heavy frosts. Light snow is possible. Forest tracks can be very slippery. Temperatures range from 1°C to 11°C.
- Spring (Sep – Nov): A lovely season as the forest comes alive with wildflowers. Days are cool and pleasant, nights are chilly. Temperatures average 5°C to 18°C.