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Strachans Campground
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Strachans Campground – The Ultimate 4WD Escape in the Grampians

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.

Strachans Campground – VIC Location Map

Name: Strachans Campground
Address: Sawmill Track, Grampians VIC 3314
Website: www.parks.vic.gov.au
GPS Coordinates: -37.37595, 142.28212

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.

 

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