Stapylton Campground: Your Base for Northern Grampians Adventure

Stapylton Campground is the premier camping destination for exploring the rugged, sun-baked landscapes of the Northern Grampians (Gariwerd) National Park. This large and well-established Parks Victoria campground is set in a beautiful open woodland at the foot of the dramatic northern ranges, including the iconic flat-topped Mount Stapylton itself. It’s a spacious and accessible site, making it a favourite for families, hiking groups, and rock climbers drawn to the world-class climbing routes nearby. The campground offers a fantastic blend of convenience and bush immersion, with individual sites tucked among the trees, providing a good degree of privacy and shade.

The campground’s main appeal is its unrivalled proximity to some of the park’s most fascinating attractions. It’s the perfect starting point for the adventurous hike through the rock formations of Hollow Mountain or the short but rewarding climb up Mount Zero (Mura Mura) for spectacular panoramic views. History and culture are also on the doorstep, with the significant Gulgurn Manja and Ngamadjidj Aboriginal rock art sites just a short drive or walk away, offering a profound connection to the area’s ancient heritage. Wildlife is a constant feature, with kangaroos, emus, and colourful birdlife often making an appearance in and around the campground. With reliable facilities and direct access to a wealth of natural and cultural wonders, Stapylton Campground is an essential base for any visitor looking to discover the unique character of the Northern Grampians.

Site Information

• Location: Northern Grampians (Gariwerd) National Park, near Mt Zero.
• Site Suitable For: Tents, swags, camper trailers, and caravans.
• Road Access: Good quality unsealed roads (Mt Zero Rd, Olive Plantation Rd). 2WD accessible.
• Site Surface: Compacted dirt and gravel sites.
• Camping Permitted: Yes, bookings are essential and must be made online via the Parks Victoria website.
• Maximum Overnight Stays: Check with Parks Victoria booking policy.
• Number of Powered Sites: 0
• Number of Un-powered Sites: 40 unpowered sites.
• Facilities: Non-flush (pit/composting) toilets, communal fireplaces, picnic tables.
• Picnic Tables: Yes, at each site.
• Potable Water: No. Water is available but is non-potable and must be treated before drinking.
• Mobile Phone Coverage: Very limited to non-existent.
• TV Reception: No.
• Onsite Public Toilets: Yes.
• Ullage / Dump Point: No.
• Drive Through Sites: Yes, some sites are suitable for drive-through.
• Rubbish Bins: No. All rubbish must be taken out with you.
• Open Fires: Permitted in designated fireplaces only, subject to fire restrictions and Total Fire Ban days. Bring your own firewood.
• Generator Use: Prohibited.
• Number of Sites Available: 40 bookable sites.
• Essentials to Bring: Drinking water or water treatment system, firewood, all food supplies, rock climbing gear.
• Pet Friendly: No. Pets are not permitted in Grampians (Gariwerd) National Park.
• Fishing: No.
• Short Walks: Yes, this is a major hiking hub. Trailheads for Mt Stapylton, Hollow Mountain, and Gulgurn Manja Shelter are nearby.

Local Amenities

• Local Pubs: Royal Hotel, Horsham (~50km), Commercial Hotel, Horsham (~50km), Wonwondah Hotel (~40km).
• Places to Eat: A wide variety of pubs, cafes, and restaurants in Horsham (~50km). A general store is located in Dadswells Bridge (~30km).
• Local Attractions: Hollow Mountain, Mount Zero Adventure Trail, Gulgurn Manja and Ngamadjidj rock art sites, world-class rock climbing.
• Nearest Caravan Parks: Horsham Riverside Caravan Park (~50km), Wimmera Lakes Caravan Resort (~50km).
• Next Free Camps: Various sites in state forests outside the national park, such as near Toolondo Reservoir.
• Nearest Dump Points: Horsham Showgrounds (~50km).
• Nearest Petrol Station: Dadswells Bridge (~30km) or Horsham (~50km).
• Drinking Water Resupply: Horsham (~50km).
• Nearest Public Toilets: Onsite. Also at nearby picnic areas like Mt Zero.

Seasonal Weather Forecast

• Summer (Dec-Feb): Very hot and dry. This area is typically hotter than the southern Grampians. High bushfire risk. Hikes should be done early in the morning.
• Autumn (Mar-May): Ideal weather for hiking and climbing. Warm, sunny days and cool nights.
• Winter (Jun-Aug): Cool and can be wet. Days are often crisp and clear, but nights are cold with frosts.
• Spring (Sep-Nov): Mild and pleasant. The area is famous for its spectacular wildflower displays, particularly orchids.