Snowy Creek Campground | Free Camping near Dartmouth

Tucked away just off the Omeo Highway, Snowy Creek Campground is a quiet and secluded free camping spot that offers a more rustic alternative to the larger camps along the Mitta Mitta River. This charming site is nestled in a clearing surrounded by native bushland, offering a peaceful retreat for those looking to immerse themselves in the natural beauty of the Victorian High Country. Its proximity to the Dartmouth Dam and the historic village of Dartmouth makes it a strategic and convenient base for anglers, 4WD enthusiasts, and sightseers exploring this rugged corner of the state. The campground is a relatively small, flat area, suitable for tents, swags, and camper trailers, with some space for smaller caravans.

The main drawcard for many visitors is the campground’s close access to the world-class fishing opportunities presented by Dartmouth Dam (Lake Dartmouth) and the surrounding rivers. The area is renowned for its trout population, attracting keen anglers year-round. While the campground itself is set back from the main waterways, it provides a quiet haven to return to after a day on the water or exploring the network of tracks in the surrounding state forest. As a basic bush camp, Snowy Creek has minimal facilities, typically offering just a long-drop toilet and perhaps a fire pit. This means all campers must be fully self-reliant, carrying in their own drinking water, firewood, and all other supplies. Crucially, it operates on a ‘leave no trace’ principle, requiring everyone to take all their rubbish out with them. For those seeking solitude and a genuine bush experience away from the highway hustle, Snowy Creek is an excellent choice.

Campground Details

Snowy Creek Campground – VIC Map

• Name: Snowy Creek Campground
• Address: Holloways Log Road, Dartmouth VIC 3701
• Website: Managed as part of a Victorian State Forest. Check the Forest Fire Management Victoria website for current conditions and alerts.
• GPS Coordinates: -36.59679, 147.43853

• Location: A secluded bush camp set in a clearing off Holloways Log Road, close to the Omeo Highway.
• Site Suitable For: Tents, swags, camper trailers, and small off-road caravans. Larger rigs may find access and turning difficult.
• Road Access: Unsealed forest track (Holloways Log Road). Generally 2WD accessible in dry conditions, but 4WD may be preferred after rain.
• Site Surface: Dirt and grass.
• Camping Permitted: Yes.
• Maximum Overnight Stays: Check local signage for any restrictions.
• Number of Powered Sites: 0.
• Number of Un-powered Sites: A small number of unmarked sites are available.

Facilities

• Picnic Tables: Unlikely.
• Potable Water: No. You must bring all your own drinking water.
• Mobile Phone Coverage: Highly unlikely. Expect no signal.
• TV Reception: No.
• Onsite Public Toilets: Yes, a basic non-flush pit toilet is usually available.
• Rubbish Bins: No. All rubbish must be carried out.
• Open Fires: Permitted in existing fire pits, subject to local fire restrictions. Bring your own firewood.
• Generator Use: Permitted, but be considerate of the quiet setting.
• Number of Sites Available: Limited number of unmarked sites.

Activities & Important Information

• Essentials to Bring: Drinking water, firewood, toilet paper, insect repellent, and fishing gear.
• Pet Friendly: Yes, dogs are permitted on a leash in State Forests.
• Fishing: Excellent fishing for trout and other species in nearby Lake Dartmouth and the Mitta Mitta River.
• Short Walks: Explore the bush tracks directly from the campground.

Local Amenities

The closest services are located in the small township of Dartmouth.

Pubs & Places to Eat

• Dartmouth Pub (The Dart): Approximately 5 km away in Dartmouth, offering meals and a classic pub atmosphere.
• The Laurel Hotel: Approximately 20 km away in Mitta Mitta.

Local Attractions

• Dartmouth Dam Wall: A must-see for its scale and the impressive views from the top.
• Lake Dartmouth: A massive waterway offering boating and fishing opportunities.
• Mitta Mitta Township: A historic gold town worth visiting.

Camping & Services

• Nearest Caravan Parks: Dartmouth Pub & Caravan Park (approx. 5 km).
• Next Free Camps: Walnuts Campground and Lightning Creek Campground are a short drive south on the Omeo Highway.
• Nearest Dump Points: Tallangatta or Omeo.
• Nearest Petrol Station: Dartmouth (check for limited fuel types and operating hours).
• Drinking Water Resupply: Dartmouth.
• Nearest Public Toilets (Flush): Available in Dartmouth township.

Seasonal Weather Forecast

Note: This is an alpine area where weather can change quickly. Always be prepared for cold conditions.

• Summer (Dec-Feb): Warm days but cool nights. High risk of bushfires.
• Autumn (Mar-May): Cool, clear days and cold nights. A great time for hiking and fishing.
• Winter (Jun-Aug): Very cold with severe frosts. Snow is possible, and access roads can become slippery or closed.
• Spring (Sep-Nov): Cool and variable, with a mix of sun and rain. Waterways will be high with snowmelt.