Jimmy Creek Campground: Your Gateway to the Southern Grampians

Nestled in a peaceful woodland setting at the southern gateway to the magnificent Grampians (Gariwerd) National Park, Jimmy Creek Campground is a haven for nature lovers and hikers. This well-appointed Parks Victoria campground offers a quintessential Aussie bush camping experience, surrounded by native forest and the dramatic, rugged peaks of the Serra Range. The spacious and clearly defined campsites are scattered amongst the trees, providing a good sense of privacy and immersion in the natural environment. It’s a place where the soundtrack is composed of birdsong, the rustle of leaves, and the gentle flow of the nearby creek.

The campground’s major drawcard is its strategic location for exploring the southern section of the park, an area renowned for its challenging and rewarding hiking trails. It’s the perfect base for tackling the summit of Mount Abrupt (Wurgarri) or The Piccaninny (Bainggug), both of which offer breathtaking panoramic views across the valley and the surrounding plains. Wildlife is abundant, with kangaroos, wallabies, and emus frequently spotted wandering through the grounds, and the vibrant birdlife provides endless entertainment. The facilities, including flushing toilets and communal fireplaces, elevate the comfort level, making it suitable for families and less experienced campers. Whether you’re planning an adventurous trek or simply seeking a tranquil retreat to relax and recharge, Jimmy Creek Campground provides an authentic and memorable Grampians experience.

Site Information

• Location: Southern Grampians (Gariwerd) National Park, on the main Grampians Road.
• Site Suitable For: Tents, swags, camper trailers, and small-to-medium sized caravans/campervans.
• Road Access: Sealed road access directly to the campground entrance.
• Site Surface: Compacted dirt and gravel sites.
• Camping Permitted: Yes, bookings are essential and must be made online via the Parks Victoria website.
• Maximum Overnight Stays: Check with Parks Victoria booking policy.
• Number of Powered Sites: 0
• Number of Un-powered Sites: 25 unpowered sites.
• Facilities: Flushing toilets, communal fireplaces, picnic tables.
• Picnic Tables: Yes, at each site.
• Potable Water: No. Water is available but is non-potable and must be treated before drinking.
• Mobile Phone Coverage: Limited and unreliable. A weak Telstra signal may be found in some spots.
• TV Reception: No.
• Onsite Public Toilets: Yes, flushing toilets.
• Ullage / Dump Point: No.
• Drive Through Sites: No designated drive-through sites.
• Rubbish Bins: No. All rubbish must be taken out with you.
• Open Fires: Permitted in designated fireplaces only, subject to fire restrictions and Total Fire Ban days. Bring your own firewood.
• Generator Use: Prohibited.
• Number of Sites Available: 25 bookable sites.
• Essentials to Bring: Drinking water or water treatment system, firewood, all food supplies, insect repellent.
• Pet Friendly: No. Pets are not permitted in Grampians (Gariwerd) National Park.
• Fishing: No.
• Short Walks: Yes, the campground has a creek-side walking track. It is also the trailhead for several major hikes.

Local Amenities

• Local Pubs: Royal Mail Hotel, Dunkeld (~30km), Halls Gap Hotel (~50km), Commercial Hotel, Cavendish (~45km).
• Places to Eat: Award-winning restaurants, cafes, and a bakery in Dunkeld (~30km). A wide variety of options in Halls Gap (~50km).
• Local Attractions: Mount Abrupt (Wurgarri) walk, The Piccaninny (Bainggug) walk, Serra Range, Wannon and Nigretta Falls (near Hamilton).
• Nearest Caravan Parks: Dunkeld Caravan Park (~30km), Halls Gap Lakeside Tourist Park (~50km).
• Next Free Camps: Wannon Falls Campground (~50km), various sites in nearby state forests.
• Nearest Dump Points: Dunkeld (~30km) or Halls Gap (~50km).
• Nearest Petrol Station: Dunkeld (~30km) or Halls Gap (~50km).
• Drinking Water Resupply: Dunkeld (~30km) or Halls Gap (~50km).
• Nearest Public Toilets: Onsite. Also in Dunkeld (~30km).

Seasonal Weather Forecast

• Summer (Dec-Feb): Warm to hot and dry. High risk of bushfires. Carry extra water on all walks.
• Autumn (Mar-May): Generally considered the best time for hiking. Mild, stable weather with sunny days and cool nights.
• Winter (Jun-Aug): Cold and often wet. Nights can be very cold with frost. Snow can occasionally fall on the highest peaks.
• Spring (Sep-Nov): Cool to mild. The park comes alive with spectacular wildflower displays. Weather can be windy and change quickly.