Hammond Rd North Campground, Wensleydale VIC
Deep within the beautiful and dense Otway Forest Park, the Hammond Road North Campground offers a genuine and secluded bush camping experience for the truly self-sufficient traveller. This is a classic, primitive free camp, perfect for those looking to escape the crowds and immerse themselves in the tranquillity of the forest. The campground consists of a small number of informal clearings tucked away amongst the towering gum trees and lush ferns, providing an intimate and peaceful setting. It’s a place where you can truly disconnect, with the only soundtrack being the rich symphony of the local birdlife, including the distinctive calls of kookaburras and black cockatoos.
The essence of camping at Hammond Road North is its complete simplicity. There are absolutely no facilities on site – no toilets, no water, no picnic tables, and no rubbish bins. This makes it strictly suitable for campers who are fully self-contained and equipped to be completely self-reliant. A ‘leave no trace’ philosophy is not just encouraged, it’s essential to preserve the pristine nature of this beautiful spot. A significant advantage for many is that, being located in a state forest, the campground is pet-friendly, allowing leashed dogs to join the adventure. The opportunity to have a small campfire in your own fire pit (when fire restrictions allow) adds to the authentic bush experience, making for magical evenings under the stars.
While it feels incredibly remote, the campground is a fantastic base for exploring the Otways. It’s close to a network of forest trails popular for 4WDing, trail biking, and bushwalking. The charming hinterland village of Deans Marsh is a short drive away, and the world-famous Great Ocean Road and the coastal town of Lorne are also easily accessible for a day trip. For a quiet, free, and authentic forest stay, Hammond Road North is a wonderful choice for the well-prepared camper.
Site Information
- Location: In the Otway Forest Park, inland between Deans Marsh and Lorne.
- Site Suitable For: Fully self-contained Tents, Swags, and Off-road Camper Trailers. Access is tight for caravans.
- Road Access: Unsealed forest road (Hammonds Rd). A high-clearance 2WD may be suitable in dry conditions, but a 4WD is recommended as the road can be slippery and rutted.
- Site Surface: Dirt and grass clearings.
- Camping Permitted: Yes, free, informal camping.
- Maximum Overnight Stays: Unspecified, but short stays are standard practice.
- Number of Powered Sites: None.
- Number of Un-powered Sites: Small area with a handful of undefined spots.
Facilities
- Facilities: None. This is a completely 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 your own fire pit, 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 tracks.
Local Amenities
- Local Pubs:
- Deans Marsh Hotel (approx. 15 km)
- Forrest Brewing Company (approx. 25 km)
- Lorne Hotel (approx. 30 km)
- Places to Eat: Deans Marsh has a general store/cafe. A full range of options in Lorne and Birregurra.
- Local Attractions:
- The Great Ocean Road
- Erskine Falls (near Lorne)
- Forrest Mountain Bike Trails
- Brae Restaurant, Birregurra
- Nearest Caravan Parks:
- Lorne Foreshore Caravan Park
- Stevensons Falls Campground (low-cost)
- Next Free Camps: Tanners Road Campground is another nearby option.
- Nearest Dump Points: Public dump points are available in Lorne and Winchelsea.
- Nearest Petrol Station: Available in Deans Marsh (check hours), Lorne, and Winchelsea.
- Drinking Water Resupply: Lorne or Winchelsea.
- Public Toilets: The nearest are in Deans Marsh.
Seasonal Weather Forecast
- Summer (Dec – Feb): Warm, but generally cooler than inland areas. The forest is dense and shaded. High bushfire risk period. Temperatures average 12°C to 24°C.
- Autumn (Mar – May): A beautiful time to visit as the forest is lush and fungi are abundant. Days are mild, nights are cool. Temperatures average 8°C to 19°C.
- Winter (Jun – Aug): Cold and very wet. The forest is often damp and misty. Tracks can be very boggy. Nights are cold. Temperatures range from 4°C to 13°C.
- Spring (Sep – Nov): A lovely season as the forest comes alive with wildflowers. The weather is cool and can be variable. Temperatures average 7°C to 18°C.