Welcome to Diggers Rest Camp Site 2, a pristine bush camping destination located on the north-eastern shores of Lake Lonsdale, Victoria. Situated within the shadows of the magnificent Grampians National Park (Gariwerd), this site offers a more secluded alternative to the busier camping zones nearby. Lake Lonsdale is a large, shallow reservoir that plays a crucial role in the region’s water management while serving as a premier recreational hub for outdoor enthusiasts. Diggers Rest Camp Site 2 is particularly favoured by self-sufficient travellers who value quietude and a direct connection with the rugged Wimmera landscape, offering panoramic views across the water towards the distant mountain peaks.
The camping experience at Diggers Rest is defined by its raw, unrefined beauty. As a primitive campground, it provides a “back-to-basics” environment where the focus is on the natural surroundings rather than man-made amenities. The site is fringed by ancient red gums and wattles, providing dappled shade and a habitat for an extraordinary array of native birdlife, including pelicans, swans, and white-bellied sea eagles. Because Lake Lonsdale is an ephemeral water body, its character shifts dramatically with the rainfall—at full capacity, it is a vast aquatic playground for kayaking and seasonal fishing, while in drier times, the receding waters reveal expansive sandy bars and unique wetland ecosystems that are perfect for long, contemplative walks.
For those seeking adventure, the gateway to the Grampians is only a short drive away, offering world-class hiking trails, breathtaking lookouts, and ancient Aboriginal rock art sites. The nearby historic town of Stawell provides a glimpse into the region’s rich gold-mining heritage and offers all the necessary supplies for a long-term stay. We promote a “leave no trace” philosophy at Diggers Rest to ensure that this fragile environment remains unspoiled for future generations. Whether you are an experienced 4WD enthusiast looking for a quiet off-grid retreat or a caravanner seeking a peaceful stopover under the brilliant outback stars, Diggers Rest Camp Site 2 provides the space and serenity required to truly disconnect. We invite you to experience the fresh country air and the quiet majesty of Lake Lonsdale on your next Victorian adventure. We look forward to seeing you at the lake soon.
Diggers Rest Camp Site 2 – VIC Location Map
Diggers Rest Camp Site 2 (Lake Lonsdale)
- Address: Lake Lonsdale Rd, Lake Lonsdale VIC 3381, Australia
- GPS Coordinates: -37.00804, 142.62597
Interactive Location Map
Site Information
- Location: Located on the north-eastern shoreline of Lake Lonsdale, accessed via Lake Lonsdale Road.
- Site Suitable For: Big Rigs, Caravans, Motorhomes, Camper Trailers, and Tent Camping.
- Road Access: Unsealed dirt and gravel road access; 2WD accessible in dry conditions, 4WD recommended in wet weather.
- Site Surface: Natural ground with sandy soil, grass, and occasional leaf litter under eucalypts.
Facilities & Features
- Primitive bush camping with no formal marked sites.
- No power or running water available on-site.
- Limited fire pits (subject to seasonal fire restrictions).
- Public pit toilets located at the North Boat Ramp area (approx. 2.5km drive).
- Natural boat launching areas nearby (water level dependent).
- Generators permitted (please be mindful of other campers).
- Strictly “carry in, carry out” rubbish policy.
Essentials to Bring
- Full drinking water supply (none available on-site).
- Self-contained toilet and shower system (highly recommended).
- Solar charging equipment or batteries for off-grid power.
- Levelling ramps for lakeside parking.
- Firewood (collection of fallen timber is permitted within the reserve).
Pet Friendly Features
- Dogs are permitted but must remain on-lead at all times.
- Wide-open shoreline areas for scenic walks with your pets.
- Owners are responsible for the immediate removal of all pet waste.
Recreation & Nature
- Fishing: Known for Redfin and Trout when water levels are sufficient.
- Short Walks: Shoreline exploration along the sandy spits and through the fringe woodland.
Local Amenities
Nearby Pubs
- Royal Hotel Stawell – Approx. 16km
- Diamond House Heritage Restaurant (Stawell) – Approx. 15.5km
- Halls Gap Hotel – Approx. 25km
Places to Eat
- Stawell Town Centre Bakeries and Cafes – Approx. 16km
- Halls Gap Village Eateries – Approx. 23km
- Barney’s Bar & Bistro (Pomonal) – Approx. 14km
Local Attractions
- Grampians National Park (Gariwerd) – Approx. 23km
- Stawell Gift Hall of Fame – Approx. 16km
- Halls Gap Zoo – Approx. 21km
- Big Hill Lookout (Stawell) – Approx. 17km
- Mount William Lookout – Approx. 43km
Travel Services
- Caravan Parks: Breeze Holiday Parks – Grampians (approx. 12km); NRMA Halls Gap (approx. 23km).
- Free Camps: Flat Rock Camp Site 1 (adjacent); Diggers Rest Site 1 (nearby).
- Dump Points: Stawell Public Dump Point (approx. 16km); Halls Gap Public Dump Point (approx. 23km).
- Petrol Stations: BP Stawell – Approx. 16km; Shell Stawell – Approx. 17km.
- Drinking Water: Stawell Public Parks/Taps – Approx. 16km.
- Public Toilets: Lake Lonsdale North Boat Ramp – Approx. 2.5km; Stawell CBD – Approx. 16km.
Seasonal Weather Forecast: Lake Lonsdale
- Summer (Dec-Feb): Warm to very hot (Avg 27°C – 34°C). High fire danger periods may apply.
- Autumn (Mar-May): Very pleasant (Avg 17°C – 24°C). Crisp mornings and golden afternoon light.
- Winter (Jun-Aug): Cool and damp (Avg 11°C – 15°C). Nights can drop to near 0°C with frequent frosts.
- Spring (Sep-Nov): Mild and breezy (Avg 18°C – 25°C). Best for viewing wildflowers and local birdlife.