Troopers Creek Campground, Wartook VIC
Tucked away in the rugged and spectacular northern reaches of the Grampians National Park (Gariwerd), Troopers Creek Campground offers a serene and authentic bush camping experience. This Parks Victoria site is a haven for serious hikers, rock climbers, and nature lovers looking to explore a quieter, more remote part of this iconic landscape. The campground is nestled in a beautiful, sheltered clearing at the foot of the imposing Mount Difficult (Gar) range, providing a stunning backdrop of sandstone cliffs and dense eucalypt forest. The sites are well-spaced and individually defined, offering a good sense of privacy and a direct connection to the surrounding wilderness.
This is a campground designed for those who come to actively engage with the park. It serves as the primary trailhead for the challenging but incredibly rewarding Mount Difficult (Gar) summit walk, a must-do for experienced hikers. The campground provides a comfortable and convenient base to start this walk early in the morning. The facilities are basic but clean and well-maintained, including non-flushing toilets and communal fireplaces. It’s a classic back-to-nature setup where the focus is on the environment. The area is a sanctuary for native wildlife, and campers are almost certain to be visited by kangaroos, wallabies, emus, and a vast array of colourful birdlife.
Self-sufficiency is key for a stay at Troopers Creek. Campers must bring all their own drinking water and take all rubbish home with them, following the ‘leave no trace’ principles that protect the park’s delicate ecosystem. The nearest towns of Halls Gap and Horsham are a significant drive away, adding to the sense of peaceful isolation. For those properly prepared, the reward is an unforgettable stay in one of Victoria’s most dramatic and beautiful natural settings. Bookings are essential for this popular hiker’s base.
Site Information
- Location: In the northern section of the Grampians National Park (Gariwerd).
- Site Suitable For: Tents, Swags, Camper Trailers, and small Campervans.
- Road Access: Sealed road (Roses Gap Rd) to the campground entrance.
- Site Surface: Compacted earth/gravel pads for each site.
- Camping Permitted: Yes, unpowered sites only. Online booking in advance is mandatory.
- Maximum Overnight Stays: Check the Parks Victoria website for current limits.
- Number of Powered Sites: None.
- Number of Un-powered Sites: 20 designated bookable sites.
Facilities
- Facilities: Non-flushing (pit) toilets, communal fire pits/wood BBQs. No showers.
- Picnic Tables: Yes.
- Potable Water: No. You must bring all your own drinking water.
- Mobile Phone Coverage: Very limited to none. An emergency beacon is recommended for hikers.
- TV Reception: None.
- Onsite Public Toilets: Yes.
- Ullage: No dump point.
- Rubbish Bins: No. All rubbish must be taken with you.
- Open Fires: Permitted in designated fire pits only, subject to seasonal fire restrictions. Bring your own firewood.
- Generator Use: Prohibited.
Essentials & Activities
- Essentials to Bring: All food and drinking water, rubbish bags, firewood, sturdy hiking boots, and warm/wet weather gear.
- Pet Friendly: No. Domestic animals are not permitted in the National Park.
- Fishing: Fishing opportunities in nearby Lake Wartook.
- Short Walks: This is a major hiking hub, serving as the trailhead for the Mount Difficult (Gar) walk.
Local Amenities
- Local Pubs:
- The Wander Inn, Wartook (check opening hours) (approx. 20 km)
- Halls Gap Hotel (approx. 40 km)
- Commercial Hotel, Horsham (approx. 45 km)
- Places to Eat: A full range of supermarkets, bakeries, cafes, and pubs in Halls Gap and Horsham.
- Local Attractions:
- Mount Difficult (Gar) walking track
- MacKenzie Falls
- Boroka Lookout
- The Balconies / Reed Lookout
- Nearest Caravan Parks:
- Grampians Edge Caravan Park (approx. 25 km)
- Numerous caravan parks in Halls Gap and Horsham.
- Next Free Camps: Plantation Campground (near Mt Zero), various rest areas towards Horsham.
- Nearest Dump Points: Public dump points are available in Halls Gap and Horsham.
- Nearest Petrol Station: Halls Gap or Horsham.
- Drinking Water Resupply: Halls Gap or Horsham Visitor Information Centres.
- Public Toilets: Available onsite.
Seasonal Weather Forecast
- Summer (Dec – Feb): Hot and dry, often with high fire danger. It’s essential to carry plenty of water for hiking. Temperatures average 13°C to 29°C.
- Autumn (Mar – May): A prime season for hiking, with mild, sunny days and cool nights. The autumn colours are beautiful. Temperatures average 8°C to 22°C.
- Winter (Jun – Aug): Cold. Days are often crisp and sunny but can be wet and windy. Nights are very cold with heavy frosts. Snow can fall on the higher peaks. Temperatures range from 3°C to 13°C.
- Spring (Sep – Nov): A spectacular time to visit when the park bursts into bloom with wildflowers. The weather is cool and can be variable. Temperatures average 7°C to 20°C.