Nunniong Plains Gate

★ ★ ★ ★ ☆ 4.5 / 5 (visitor impressions)
Nunniong Plains Gate is the principal access point into the spectacular Nunniong Plains and the surrounding Nunniong State Forest high country in north-east Victoria. The area is prized for its broad alpine and sub-alpine native grasslands, walking and photography opportunities, historic forestry huts and remote 4WD routes. The gate provides access onto Nunniong Forest Drive and the Bentley Plain/Moscow Villa camp areas, which are popular bases for exploring the region’s flora, fauna and headwaters of the Tambo and Timbarra Rivers. Camping here is rustic — expect basic or no formal facilities in many spots, and always follow local signage and seasonal restrictions. Vehicle access varies by weather and road maintenance; high-clearance 4WDs are recommended on many unsealed tracks, while some plains and hut sites are suitable for tents, swags and small camper trailers.Visitors should plan ahead: pack plenty of potable water (there may be limited or no treated water onsite), take all rubbish out, and be prepared for rapid weather changes in the high country — warm days can be followed by cold nights, wind and sudden rain. Mobile phone coverage is intermittent or absent across much of the plain; a personal locator beacon or satellite messaging device is advised if you’re travelling beyond cleared roads. Respect local ecology by staying on formed tracks, avoid driving on wet surfaces to protect rare alpine grasses, and observe any fire restrictions. Nunniong Plains is an excellent place for short walks, birdwatching and quiet, remote camping; it’s also a gateway for extended high-country crossing routes that connect to Omeo, Swifts Creek and other historic towns. Before you go, check Parks Victoria / DELWP and local backroad advisories for closures, campsite rules and vehicle requirements.

Location & contact

Place name
Nunniong Plains Gate (Nunniong Plains), VIC
Address
Nunniong Plains, via Ensay, East Gippsland, Victoria, Australia
GPS coordinates
-37.14227498194866, 147.95732892426082
Website / reference
High Country Backroad Tour — ExploreOutdoors / Parks info

Site details — Nunniong Plains Gate / surrounds
  • Location, site suitable for: remote high-country camping; tents, swags, small camper trailers; short overnight stays and multi-day backcountry trips.
  • Road access: unsealed forest and station roads — access via Nunniong Forest Drive (check seasonal closures). High-clearance 4WD recommended for some routes. Confirm road status before travel.
  • Site surface: natural grassland and dirt clearings; some gravelled picnic/camp pads at managed campgrounds such as Bentley Plain.
  • Camping permitted: yes — mostly unserviced and first-in/first-served at many forest sites; managed sites (e.g. Bentley Plain) have basic amenities. Check Parks/DELWP for seasonal restrictions.
  • Maximum overnight stays: variable by site and signage — confirm at the gate or Parks pages before camping.
  • Facilities: very limited in most areas; at managed spots you may find picnic shelter, fireplace pits and a basic bush toilet. Bring your own water and supplies.
  • Potable water: not reliably available — treat or carry your own. Where potable resupply exists, it will be noted at official campgrounds only.
  • Mobile phone coverage: intermittent to none across much of the plains — don’t rely on mobile network for safety.
  • Onsite public toilets: basic bush toilets at some managed camps (e.g. Bentley Plain). Mostly none at remote sites.
  • Rubbish bins: usually not provided — carry out all rubbish.
  • Open fires: subject to seasonal fire bans and rules — always check restrictions and use existing firepits where permitted.
  • Generator use: not recommended and often unsuitable for quiet, remote areas; respect neighbours and local rules.
  • Number of sites available: variable and often informal (first-come) — managed campgrounds list capacity locally; remote clearings have no fixed number.
  • Essentials to bring: potable water, all food and fuel, shovel / trowel, fire extinguisher, high-vis clothing, warm layers, good maps, satellite comms or PLB if remote.
  • Pet friendly: depends on site — keep dogs under control and observe local park rules (some sensitive habitat areas restrict pets).
  • Fishing: opportunities exist in nearby headwaters and creeks — confirm local rules and licences.
  • Short walks: multiple short walks and scenic points around Bentley Plain and the surrounding high country — ideal for photography and flora/fauna observation.