Kalymna Falls Campground: A Hiker’s Retreat in the Eastern Grampians

For those who prefer the quiet solitude of a hike-in campsite, Kalymna Falls Campground is a hidden gem on the eastern slopes of the Grampians (Gariwerd) National Park. This is a primitive camping experience designed for self-sufficient hikers seeking to immerse themselves in the rugged beauty of the bush. The campground itself is a small, basic clearing accessible via a walking track, ensuring a peaceful atmosphere free from the noise of vehicles. It’s a place to truly disconnect, where the only sounds are the rustling of eucalyptus leaves, the rich chorus of native birdlife, and, after good rain, the faint murmur of the nearby falls.

The main attraction is the journey and the destination itself. The walk to the campground and onwards to the seasonal Kalymna Falls takes you through beautiful stringybark and messmate forests, typical of the Grampians landscape. The falls are most impressive during the wetter months of winter and spring, cascading over a dramatic rock face into a serene pool below. The campground serves as an excellent, secluded base for exploring this quieter side of the national park, away from the more crowded central attractions. It requires a commitment to minimalist camping—you must carry everything in and out—but the reward is an intimate connection with nature. It’s the perfect spot for experienced hikers looking for an overnight adventure or a tranquil stop on a longer trek through the park’s eastern ranges.

Site Information

• Location: Eastern Grampians (Gariwerd) National Park, near Pomonal.
• Site Suitable For: Tents and swags only. This is a walk-in campground.
• Road Access: Unsealed road to the Mount William Picnic Ground parking area. The campground is accessed via a walking track from here.
• Site Surface: Natural dirt and leaf litter surface.
• Camping Permitted: Yes, bookings are essential via the Parks Victoria website.
• Maximum Overnight Stays: Check with Parks Victoria booking policy.
• Number of Powered Sites: 0
• Number of Un-powered Sites: A small number of unpowered, unmarked sites.
• Facilities: Non-flush (pit/composting) toilet.
• Picnic Tables: No.
• Potable Water: No. All water must be carried in or sourced from creeks and treated before use.
• Mobile Phone Coverage: Unlikely. Very poor to non-existent.
• TV Reception: No.
• Onsite Public Toilets: Yes, one non-flush toilet.
• Ullage / Dump Point: No.
• Drive Through Sites: No.
• Rubbish Bins: No. All rubbish must be carried out.
• Open Fires: Prohibited. Fuel stoves only.
• Generator Use: Prohibited.
• Number of Sites Available: Limited space, bookings are essential.
• Essentials to Bring: All food and water supplies, fuel stove, first-aid kit, PLB or satellite messenger, topographic map.
• Pet Friendly: No. Pets are not permitted in Grampians (Gariwerd) National Park.
• Fishing: No.
• Short Walks: The campsite is on the walking track to Kalymna Falls.

Local Amenities

• Local Pubs: Pomonal Hotel (~15km), Halls Gap Hotel (~35km), Royal Mail Hotel, Dunkeld (~60km).
• Places to Eat: A general store/cafe in Pomonal (~15km). Wider selection in Halls Gap (~35km).
• Local Attractions: Kalymna Falls, Mount William (Duwul) summit drive/walk, Pomonal wineries and orchards.
• Nearest Caravan Parks: Pomonal Estate Caravan Park (~15km), Halls Gap Lakeside Tourist Park (~35km).
• Next Free Camps: Very limited. Most nearby options are paid National Park sites.
• Nearest Dump Points: Halls Gap (~35km) or Ararat (~40km).
• Nearest Petrol Station: Pomonal (~15km, limited hours) or Halls Gap (~35km).
• Drinking Water Resupply: Pomonal (~15km) or Halls Gap (~35km).
• Nearest Public Toilets: Onsite. Also in Pomonal village (~15km).

Seasonal Weather Forecast

• Summer (Dec-Feb): Hot and dry, with a high bushfire risk. Hiking can be challenging.
• Autumn (Mar-May): Mild and stable weather, ideal for hiking. Cool nights.
• Winter (Jun-Aug): Cold and wet. This is the best time to see the waterfall flowing. Be prepared for very cold nights and potentially muddy tracks.
• Spring (Sep-Nov): Cool to mild. The park is vibrant with wildflowers, and the waterfall may still be flowing.