Strachans Campground: The Ultimate 4WD Escape in the Grampians

For the dedicated 4WD adventurer seeking true isolation, Strachans Campground is one of the Grampians’ most rewarding and remote destinations. This is not a campsite for the faint of heart; access is strictly for high-clearance 4WD vehicles via the challenging Sawmill Track, making the journey itself a significant part of the experience. The reward for navigating the rough terrain is a beautifully secluded clearing deep within the Victoria Valley, offering a profound sense of solitude and immersion in the untamed wilderness of the Grampians (Gariwerd) National Park.

This campground is the epitome of primitive, self-sufficient bush camping. With only the most basic of facilities, it demands that visitors bring everything they need and leave absolutely no trace. The campsite serves as a base for exploring the wild southern end of the park, with nearby tracks leading to incredible, seldom-seen vistas like Strachans Lookout. The area is a haven for wildlife, with emus, kangaroos, and wallabies often seen in the surrounding woodlands. Evenings here are magical, spent around a small campfire under a blanket of stars so clear and bright they seem within arm’s reach. Strachans Campground isn’t just a place to pitch a tent; it’s a destination for experienced adventurers who cherish the challenge of getting there and the unparalleled peace that comes with being truly off the grid.

Site Information

• Location: Victoria Valley, Southern Grampians (Gariwerd) National Park.
• Site Suitable For: Tents, swags, and rugged off-road camper trailers only.
• Road Access: Difficult 4WD access only via Sawmill Track. This track can be rough, steep, and slippery. Vehicle recovery gear is essential.
• Site Surface: Natural dirt and grass clearing.
• Camping Permitted: Yes, bookings required.
• Maximum Overnight Stays: No specified limit.
• Number of Powered Sites: 0
• Number of Un-powered Sites: A few informal, unmarked sites.
• Facilities: Non-flush (pit/composting) toilet.
• Picnic Tables: No.
• Potable Water: No. You must bring all your own water for drinking, cooking, and washing.
• Mobile Phone Coverage: No. Expect zero reception.
• TV Reception: No.
• Onsite Public Toilets: No
• Ullage / Dump Point: No.
• Drive Through Sites: No.
• Rubbish Bins: No. All rubbish must be carried out with you.
• Open Fires: Permitted in the designated communal fireplace only, subject to fire restrictions and Total Fire Ban days. Fuel stoves are recommended.
• Generator Use: Prohibited.
• Number of Sites Available: First come, first served.
• Essentials to Bring: All water and food, vehicle recovery gear, PLB or satellite messenger, first-aid kit, offline maps.
• Pet Friendly: No. Pets are not permitted in Grampians (Gariwerd) National Park.
• Fishing: No.
• Short Walks: Yes, to Strachans Lookout and along surrounding 4WD tracks.

Local Amenities

• Local Pubs: Cavendish Bunyip Hotel (~25km), Balmoral Hotel (~40km), Royal Mail Hotel, Dunkeld (~45km).
• Places to Eat: The Bunyip Hotel in Cavendish (~25km). More options in Dunkeld (~45km) and Hamilton (~50km).
• Local Attractions: Strachans Lookout, Victoria Valley scenic drive, Wannon Falls, Nigretta Falls.
• Nearest Caravan Parks: Cavendish Campground (free) is the closest option. Paid parks in Dunkeld (~45km).
• Next Free Camps: Cavendish Campground (~25km), Wannon Falls Campground (~35km).
• Nearest Dump Points: Cavendish (~25km).
• Nearest Petrol Station: Cavendish (~25km).
• Drinking Water Resupply: Cavendish (~25km) or Dunkeld (~45km).
• Nearest Public Toilets: Onsite. Also at Cavendish Campground (~25km).

Seasonal Weather Forecast

• Summer (Dec-Feb): Hot and dry with a very high bushfire risk. Tracks may be closed on extreme fire danger days.
• Autumn (Mar-May): Ideal conditions for 4WDing and hiking. Mild, sunny days and cool nights.
• Winter (Jun-Aug): Cold and wet. Tracks can become extremely slippery, boggy, and potentially impassable. For experienced winter drivers only.
• Spring (Sep-Nov): Cool to mild. A great time for wildflowers, but tracks may still be wet and challenging.