Middle Creek Camping Area | Free Camping near Beaufort
Nestled at the foothills of the Mount Buangor Range, Middle Creek Camping Area offers a tranquil and accessible bush camping experience in the heart of Victoria’s Pyrenees region. This popular, free campground serves as an excellent base for exploring the diverse landscapes of both Mount Cole State Forest and Mount Buangor State Park. Surrounded by tall eucalypts and the gentle sound of the namesake creek, it’s a favourite spot for families, hikers, and anyone looking for a convenient weekend escape. The campground is a large, open, and relatively flat area, providing numerous sites suitable for everything from tents and swags to large caravans and motorhomes, making it a versatile option for all types of campers.
The area’s main drawcard is its direct access to an extensive network of walking tracks. From the campground, you can embark on the popular Beeripmo Walk, a multi-day hike through the ranges, or choose from a variety of shorter trails that meander through fern-filled gullies and up to scenic lookouts. The forest is rich with wildlife, including kangaroos, wallabies, echidnas, and a vast array of birdlife. The history of the region is rooted in gold prospecting, and fossicking remains a popular pastime for visitors. Facilities at Middle Creek are basic but well-maintained, including toilets and wood-fired barbecues, but campers must be self-sufficient with drinking water. Its 2WD accessibility and proximity to the town of Beaufort make it an easy choice for a stress-free getaway, blending the serenity of bush camping with the convenience of nearby amenities.
Campground Details
- Name: Middle Creek Camping Area
- Address: 643 Ferntree Gully Road, Raglan VIC 3373
- Website: Managed by Parks Victoria. Check their website for current conditions and alerts.
- GPS Coordinates: -37.33317, 143.24662
- Location: A large, open bush setting at the base of Mount Buangor, alongside Middle Creek.
- Site Suitable For: Tents, swags, camper trailers, campervans, motorhomes, and large caravans.
- Road Access: Good quality, unsealed road. Generally 2WD accessible, though care should be taken after heavy rain.
- Site Surface: Dirt and gravel.
- Camping Permitted: Yes.
- Maximum Overnight Stays: Check with Parks Victoria for the most current information.
- Number of Powered Sites: 0.
- Number of Un-powered Sites: Numerous unmarked sites available on a first-come, first-served basis.
Facilities
- Picnic Tables: Yes.
- Potable Water: No. All drinking water must be brought with you.
- Mobile Phone Coverage: Limited and unreliable. Varies by carrier.
- TV Reception: No.
- Onsite Public Toilets: Yes, non-flush pit toilets are available.
- Rubbish Bins: No. All rubbish must be taken out with you.
- Open Fires: Permitted in designated fireplaces only, subject to seasonal fire restrictions. Bring your own firewood.
- Generator Use: Permitted, but considerate use is requested.
- Number of Sites Available: Not individually marked.
Activities & Important Information
- Essentials to Bring: Drinking water, firewood, insect repellent, and sturdy walking shoes.
- Pet Friendly: Yes, dogs are permitted on a leash within the campground and Mount Cole State Forest, but are NOT permitted in the adjoining Mount Buangor State Park.
- Fishing: Not a primary activity at this location.
- Short Walks: Excellent access to numerous tracks, including Ferntree Gully Nature Walk and tracks leading to Cave Hill and Sugarloaf Hill.
Local Amenities
The nearest town with comprehensive services is Beaufort, a short drive away.
Pubs & Places to Eat
- The Golden Age Hotel: Approximately 18 km away in Beaufort.
- Beaufort Hotel: Approximately 18 km away in Beaufort.
- Various bakeries and cafes are also available in Beaufort for meals and supplies.
Local Attractions
- Beeripmo Walk: A challenging 21km, 2-day circuit hike that starts and finishes near the campground.
- Mount Buangor State Park: Features waterfalls and stunning viewpoints.
- Mount Cole State Forest: Offers extensive 4WD tracks and scenic drives.
Camping & Services
- Nearest Caravan Parks: Beaufort Lake Caravan Park (approx. 18 km).
- Next Free Camps: Ditchfields, Chinamans, and Beeripmo Campgrounds are also located within the Mount Cole State Forest.
- Nearest Dump Points: Beaufort Lake Caravan Park (for registered guests) or public dump point in Ararat.
- Nearest Petrol Station: Beaufort (approx. 18 km).
- Drinking Water Resupply: Beaufort.
- Nearest Public Toilets (Flush): Available in Beaufort.
Seasonal Weather Forecast
Note: The area is in a temperate zone and can get significantly colder than Melbourne, especially at night.
- Summer (Dec-Feb): Warm to hot days, but nights are generally mild and pleasant. High fire danger season.
- Autumn (Mar-May): Cool, crisp days and chilly nights. A beautiful time to visit with stable weather.
- Winter (Jun-Aug): Cold and often wet. Can experience frosty mornings and occasional light snowfall on the highest peaks.
- Spring (Sep-Nov): Cool and variable, with a mix of sunny and wet days as the forest comes to life.