Wonnangatta Valley Campground: Historic 4WD Adventure in the Alpine National Park

For serious four-wheel drive enthusiasts and lovers of Australian folklore, a trip to the Wonnangatta Valley Campground is a true pilgrimage into the heart of the Victorian High Country. Located deep within the Alpine National Park, this remote and historic valley is one of Australia’s most iconic camping destinations, famous not only for its breathtaking beauty but also for the enduring mystery of the Wonnangatta Murders of 1918. Reaching this secluded spot is an adventure in itself, requiring a capable 4WD vehicle to navigate the challenging tracks and river crossings that lead into the valley from Dargo or Licola. The journey is rewarded with a vast, open, grassy plain nestled between towering mountain ranges, offering an unparalleled sense of isolation and grandeur.

The campground is spread across the historic site of the old Wonnangatta Station, with numerous unmarked sites available on the flats beside the Wonnangatta River. This is true bush camping for the self-sufficient traveller. Basic facilities include a non-flush toilet, but campers must bring absolutely everything else they need, including drinking water, firewood, and a portable toilet. A strict carry-in, carry-out policy is essential to preserve the pristine environment. Due to its location in a national park, **pets are strictly forbidden**. The valley offers incredible opportunities for fishing in the river, exploring the historic cemetery, and hiking through the surrounding wilderness. Open campfires are generally permitted in existing fire pits, making for magical evenings spent under a canopy of brilliant stars, far from any city lights. The complete lack of mobile phone coverage ensures a genuine digital detox. A trip to Wonnangatta is not just a camping trip; it’s a challenging, rewarding, and unforgettable adventure into a significant piece of Australian history and wilderness.

Campground Information

• Name: Wonnangatta Valley Campground
• Address: Wonnangatta Track, Alpine National Park, Victoria
• GPS Coordinates: -37.374654633373304, 147.0569128081846
• Website: Managed by Parks Victoria. See the Alpine National Park page for park information and track closures.

Features & Facilities

• Location: Remote historic valley deep within the Alpine National Park.
• Site Suitable For: Tents, swags, and rugged off-road camper trailers only.
• Road Access: Difficult 4WD access only, involving steep tracks and river crossings. Tracks are subject to seasonal closures (typically June-November).
• Site Surface: Grass and natural earth.
• Camping Permitted: Yes, free camping.
• Maximum Overnight Stays: Standard national park limits apply.
• Facilities: Non-flush toilet.
• Potable Water: No. Bring all your own water or be prepared to treat river water.
• Mobile Phone Coverage: None. An emergency communication device (e.g., PLB or satellite phone) is essential.
• Onsite Public Toilets: Yes, a non-flush toilet is available.
• Rubbish Bins: No. A strict carry-in, carry-out policy applies.
• Open Fires: Permitted in existing fire pits, subject to fire restrictions and Total Fire Ban days.
• Generator Use: Strongly discouraged due to the wilderness setting.
• Number of Sites Available: Numerous unmarked, dispersed sites.
• Essentials to Bring: All food, water, fuel, recovery gear, emergency communication device, firewood, and rubbish bags.
• Pet Friendly: No. Pets are strictly prohibited.
• Fishing: Yes, in the Wonnangatta River.
• Short Walks: Explore the historic station site, cemetery, and river banks.

Local Amenities & Attractions

• Local Pubs:
  • Dargo Hotel – approx. 50 km (via challenging 4WD tracks)
  • Licola General Store (limited) – approx. 70 km (via challenging 4WD tracks)
• Places to Eat:
  • Dargo Hotel Bistro – approx. 50 km (via challenging 4WD tracks)
• Local Attractions:
  • Wonnangatta Station Historic Site & Cemetery
  • Challenging 4WD tracks (e.g., Zeka Spur, Billy Goat Bluff)
  • Alpine National Park wilderness

Nearby Parks & Services

• Nearest Caravan Parks:
  • Dargo River Inn – approx. 48 km (via challenging 4WD tracks)
  • Licola Caravan Park – approx. 70 km (via challenging 4WD tracks)
• Nearest Alternate Free Camps:
  • Horseyard Flat Campground
  • Meyers Flat Camp Area (near Dargo)
• Nearest Dump Points:
  • Dargo River Inn (check with management) – approx. 48 km
  • Licola – approx. 70 km
  • Bairnsdale Public Dump Point – over 150 km
• Nearest Petrol Station: Dargo – approx. 50 km. It is essential to carry spare fuel.
• Nearest Drinking Water Resupply: Dargo or Licola.
• Nearest Public Toilets: Available onsite.

Seasonal Weather Forecast

• Summer (Dec-Feb): Mild to warm days with cool nights. Weather is highly changeable. Average maximums are around 22°C.
• Autumn (Mar-May): Cool, crisp days and cold nights. The valley is famous for its autumn colours. Average maximums range from 10°C to 18°C.
• Winter (Jun-Aug): Very cold. Tracks are closed due to snow and hazardous conditions.
• Spring (Sep-Nov): Cool days. Tracks generally reopen in late spring/early summer, but can be wet and challenging. Average maximums range from 10°C to 16°C.