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Gracie Lorimer camp area
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Gracie Lorimer Camp Area, Steiglitz Historic Park

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Gracie Lorimer Camp Area, Steiglitz Historic Park

★★★★★ (5.0/5) – Basic bush camp.
Step directly into the pages of Victoria’s gold rush history with a stay at the Gracie Lorimer Camp Area, a basic bush camp nestled within the fascinating Steiglitz Historic Park. This is not a campsite for those seeking creature comforts; it is a simple, walk-in site designed for self-sufficient hikers and history enthusiasts who want to immerse themselves in the tranquil yet storied landscape of this former gold-mining boomtown. The camp area is a small, cleared space in the bush, offering a peaceful setting for pitching a tent after a day of exploring. Its primary appeal lies in its location, providing a base from which to discover the remnants of Steiglitz, which once bustled with over 1500 residents, pubs, shops, and churches during the 1860s gold fever.Camping here is a true back-to-basics experience. There are absolutely no facilities on site – no toilets, no water, no picnic tables, and no bins. Visitors must carry in everything they need, including all water for drinking and cooking, and meticulously carry out all rubbish to preserve the park’s heritage and natural values. As it is located within a Historic Park, which adjoins the Brisbane Ranges National Park, strict regulations apply: pets and fires are not permitted. This means cooking must be done on a fuel stove. The campsite is best suited for overnight hikers tackling the park’s various trails, such as the Steiglitz Circuit Walk or sections of the long-distance Burchell Trail. Access is typically via a short walk from a nearby parking area. While basic, the Gracie Lorimer Camp Area offers an unparalleled opportunity to sleep amongst the ghosts of the gold rush, surrounded by the quiet beauty of the ironbark forests and the rich history that permeates this unique park.
  • Name and Address: Gracie Lorimer Camp Area, Steiglitz Historic Park, Steiglitz-Durdidwarrah Road, Steiglitz, VIC 3331, Australia
  • GPS Coordinates: -37.38214300969469, 146.21065498216686
  • Website: Parks Victoria – Steiglitz Historic Park

Campground Information & Features

  • Location: Within Steiglitz Historic Park, west of Melbourne.
  • Site Suitable For: Tents only
  • Road Access: Access to the park is via sealed and good-quality unsealed roads. The campsite itself is walk-in from a designated car park.
  • Site Surface: Natural earth clearing.
  • Camping Permitted: Yes, free camping. No bookings required.
  • Maximum Overnight Stays: As per Parks Victoria regulations.
  • Facilities: None. This is a minimal impact, self-sufficient campsite.
  • Potable Water: No. You must bring your own water for all needs.
  • Mobile Phone Coverage: Unlikely. Very limited to non-existent within the park.
  • Onsite Public Toilets: No. A portable toilet system is recommended.
  • Rubbish Bins: No. All rubbish must be carried out.
  • Open Fires: Prohibited. Fuel stoves must be used for cooking.
  • Generator Use: Prohibited.
  • Number of Sites Available: A small area suitable for a few tents.
  • Essentials to Bring: Tent, all water, fuel stove, food, rubbish bags, toilet paper, first-aid kit, maps.
  • Pet Friendly: No. Pets are not permitted in Steiglitz Historic Park.
  • Fishing: Not a primary activity at this location.
  • Short Walks: Excellent. The campsite is a base for numerous historical and bushwalking trails.

Nearby Amenities & Attractions

  • Local Pubs:
    • The Royal Hotel (Meredith) – Approx. 20 km
    • Morrow’s Meredith Hotel (Meredith) – Approx. 20 km
    • Anakie General Store & Pub (Anakie) – Approx. 20 km
  • Places to Eat:
    • Meredith (Pubs, Cafe, Roadhouse) – Approx. 20 km
    • Anakie (General Store/Takeaway) – Approx. 20 km
    • Bannockburn (Various options) – Approx. 30 km
  • Local Attractions:
    • Steiglitz Court House & Historic Township – Within walking distance
    • Brisbane Ranges National Park – Adjoining the park
    • Fairy Park (Anakie) – Approx. 20 km
  • Nearest Caravan Parks:
    • Meredith Park (Free camp with facilities) – Approx. 20 km (Lake Colac location, further south)
    • Anakie Caravan Park – Approx. 20 km
    • Gold Nugget Tourist Park (Ballarat) – Approx. 50 km
  • Next Free Camps:
    • Fridays Campground (Brisbane Ranges NP, fees/booking may apply) – Approx. 2 km north
  • Nearest Dump Points:
    • Meredith Park may have facilities, otherwise nearest major town is Geelong or Ballarat.
  • Nearest Petrol Station:
    • Meredith – Approx. 20 km
    • Anakie – Approx. 20 km
  • Drinking Water Resupply:
    • Meredith or Anakie are the closest options.
  • Nearest Public Toilets (offsite):
    • Bert Boardman Recreation Area (Steiglitz)
    • Behind St Paul’s Church (Steiglitz)

Seasonal Weather Forecast: Steiglitz / Brisbane Ranges Area

  • Summer (Dec-Feb): Can be very hot and dry. High bushfire risk. Carry extra water. Temperatures range from 15°C to 35°C+.
  • Autumn (Mar-May): Pleasant weather for walking, with mild days and cool nights. Temperatures range from 10°C to 25°C.
  • Winter (Jun-Aug): Cool to cold and can be wet. Nights are chilly. Be prepared for muddy tracks. Temperatures range from 4°C to 15°C.
  • Spring (Sep-Nov): The best time for wildflowers. Weather is mild but can be variable with rain. Temperatures range from 8°C to 22°C.

 

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