Firth Park Campground, Trentham East VIC
Steeped in history and surrounded by the tranquil beauty of the Wombat State Forest, Firth Park Campground offers a fantastic back-to-nature escape for self-sufficient campers. This Parks Victoria campground is set on the site of a former forest nursery and sawmill from the 1940s, and remnants of this past, including a historic log hut, add a unique character to the site. It’s a beautifully serene spot, nestled in a clearing and surrounded by towering eucalypts. The campground is a large, open, and grassy area, providing plenty of space for tents, camper trailers, and small-to-medium caravans to spread out and enjoy the peaceful forest atmosphere.
This is a classic bush camp experience, ideal for those looking to disconnect and enjoy the simple pleasures of the outdoors. The facilities are basic but well-maintained, with non-flushing toilets and a number of wood-fired barbecues and communal fire pits that become a welcome hub on cool evenings. Campers must come fully prepared, bringing their own drinking water and taking all rubbish home with them, adhering to the ‘leave no trace’ principle that protects this pristine environment. The absence of modern distractions is a key part of its charm, encouraging visitors to relax, explore, and listen to the sounds of the abundant local wildlife, including kangaroos and a vast array of birdlife.
Firth Park’s location makes it a superb base for exploring the Macedon Ranges and Spa Country. It provides direct access to the network of forest tracks within the Wombat State Forest, which are popular for bushwalking, mountain biking, and 4WDing. The charming towns of Trentham, Blackwood, and Woodend are just a scenic drive away, offering artisan bakeries, historic pubs, and unique shops. For a peaceful, affordable, and historically rich forest getaway, Firth Park is a top-tier choice that requires booking in advance.
Site Information
- Location: In the Wombat State Forest, between Trentham and Woodend.
- Site Suitable For: Tents, Camper Trailers, Swags, small Caravans and Motorhomes.
- Road Access: Access is via unsealed forest roads. Generally 2WD accessible in dry weather, but can become slippery and boggy after rain.
- Site Surface: Large, level grass and dirt areas.
- Camping Permitted: Yes, unpowered sites only. Online booking in advance via the Parks Victoria website is mandatory.
- Maximum Overnight Stays: Check the Parks Victoria website for current limits.
- Number of Powered Sites: None.
- Number of Un-powered Sites: 15 un-designated sites available for booking.
Facilities
- Facilities: Non-flushing (pit) toilets, communal fire pits/wood BBQs. No showers.
- Picnic Tables: Yes.
- Potable Water: No. You must bring all your own drinking water.
- Mobile Phone Coverage: Very limited to non-existent.
- TV Reception: None.
- Onsite Public Toilets: Yes.
- Ullage: No dump point.
- Rubbish Bins: No. All rubbish must be taken with you.
- Open Fires: Permitted in designated fire pits only, subject to seasonal fire restrictions. Bring your own firewood.
- Generator Use: Prohibited.
Essentials & Activities
- Essentials to Bring: All food and drinking water, rubbish bags, firewood, hiking/biking gear.
- Pet Friendly: No. Dogs and other pets are not permitted in this campground.
- Fishing: Not applicable.
- Short Walks: Excellent access to the surrounding forest tracks for bushwalking.
Local Amenities
- Local Pubs:
- The Cosmopolitan Hotel, Trentham (approx. 10 km)
- The Blackwood Hotel (approx. 20 km)
- Holgate Brewhouse, Woodend (approx. 25 km)
- Places to Eat: A great range of bakeries, cafes, and pubs in nearby Trentham.
- Local Attractions:
- Trentham Falls
- The historic town of Blackwood
- Wombat Hill Botanic Gardens, Daylesford (approx. 30 km)
- Hanging Rock (approx. 40 km)
- Nearest Caravan Parks:
- Blackwood Mineral Springs Holiday Park
- Daylesford Holiday Park
- Next Free Camps: Very limited. Some free camping may be found in other parts of the wider state forest, check Parks Victoria for details.
- Nearest Dump Points: A public dump point is available in Daylesford.
- Nearest Petrol Station: Available in Trentham and Woodend.
- Drinking Water Resupply: Trentham or other local towns.
- Public Toilets: Available onsite.
Seasonal Weather Forecast
- Summer (Dec – Feb): Warm to hot, but generally cooler than Melbourne due to the altitude. Be prepared for changes in weather and check fire warnings. Temperatures average 12°C to 26°C.
- Autumn (Mar – May): A stunning season with beautiful autumn colours in the nearby towns. Days are mild and sunny, nights are cool. Temperatures average 7°C to 20°C.
- Winter (Jun – Aug): Cold. Days are often crisp and sunny, but can be foggy. Nights are very cold with heavy frosts. Light snowfall is possible. Temperatures range from 1°C to 11°C.
- Spring (Sep – Nov): A beautiful season as the forest comes alive with wildflowers. Days are cool and pleasant, nights are chilly. Temperatures average 5°C to 18°C.