Wulgulmerang Recreation Reserve – Rugged Camping in Snowy River Country

For adventurous travellers seeking an authentic High Country experience, the Wulgulmerang Recreation Reserve offers a fantastic, low-cost base camp deep in the remote and rugged landscapes of East Gippsland. This community-run facility provides a spacious and peaceful haven for campers, caravans, and motorhomes, making it an ideal launchpad for exploring the legendary Snowy River National Park and the spectacular surrounding alpine wilderness. Set in a wide, grassy clearing, the reserve embodies the spirit of high country life, where self-sufficiency is key and the rewards are breathtaking scenery and profound tranquility. It’s a place to disconnect from the modern world and reconnect with nature.

The amenities at Wulgulmerang are a welcome comfort in such a remote location and represent incredible value for a small donation. Campers have access to an amenities block with toilets and hot showers, a true luxury after a day of hiking or four-wheel driving. While there are no powered sites, the reserve’s appeal lies in its back-to-basics charm. The main attractions here are the natural ones. The reserve is perfectly positioned for tackling the iconic McKillops Bridge drive, considered one of Australia’s most spectacular and challenging roads, and for visiting lookouts over the incredible Little River Gorge. The historic Buchan Caves are also within a reasonable drive. This is a destination for the well-prepared traveller, but for those who make the journey, the Wulgulmerang Recreation Reserve offers a memorable stay in the heart of Banjo Paterson territory.

Site Information

• Name: Wulgulmerang Recreation Reserve
• Address: 381 Snowy River Rd, Wulgulmerang East VIC 3885, Australia
• Phone Number: Not available (Community managed).

• GPS Coordinates: -37.068743, 148.259686

• Website: Not available.

Campground Details

• Location: On the Snowy River Road in the remote High Country locality of Wulgulmerang.
• Site Suitable For: Best suited for self-contained caravans, camper trailers, and motorhomes. Tents are welcome.
• Road Access: Sealed road access (Snowy River Rd). Note that many surrounding roads are unsealed and for 4WD only.
• Site Surface: Mostly flat grass.
• Camping Permitted: Yes, camping is by donation in the provided honesty box.
• Maximum Overnight Stays: Unspecified, but short to medium-term stays are standard.
• Facilities: Toilets, hot showers. No powered sites.
• Potable Water: A tap is available (tank water). It is highly recommended to bring your own drinking water.
• Mobile Phone Coverage: Very limited to non-existent. A satellite phone or personal locator beacon is strongly advised for travel in this region.
• TV Reception: Poor to non-existent.
• Onsite Public Toilets: Yes.
• Rubbish Bins: No. This is a strict carry-in, carry-out site. Please leave no trace.
• Open Fires: Permitted in contained fire pits only, subject to local fire restrictions and Total Fire Ban days. Bring your own firewood.
• Generator Use: Permitted with consideration for the quiet, natural environment.
• Number of Sites Available: Large, unmarked area with plenty of space.
• Essentials to Bring: All power, food, fuel, firewood, and rubbish bags. Emergency communication device.
• Pet Friendly: Yes, pets are welcome on a leash at the reserve, but are not permitted in the adjacent National Park.
• Fishing: Fishing opportunities in the Snowy River and other local mountain streams.
• Short Walks: Plenty of space for walks around the large reserve.

Local Amenities & Attractions

• Local Pubs:
  • Buchan Caves Hotel, Buchan: Approx. 50 km
  • Delegate Hotel, Delegate NSW: Approx. 65 km
  • The Omeo Hotel, Omeo: Approx. 100 km
• Places to Eat:
  • Buchan Caves Hotel (pub meals): Approx. 50 km
  • Cafes and bakeries in Buchan.
• Local Attractions:
  • Snowy River National Park
  • McKillops Bridge scenic drive (check road conditions – often 4WD only)
  • Little River Gorge Lookout: Approx. 40 km
• Nearest Caravan Parks:
  • Buchan Caves Reserve: Approx. 50 km
• Next Free Camps:
  • Numerous remote bush camps within the Snowy River National Park (e.g., Jacksons Crossing).
• Nearest Dump Points:
  • Buchan Caves Reserve (check for public access/fee): Approx. 50 km
• Nearest Petrol Station:
  • Buchan: Approx. 50 km
  • Gelantipy (check availability): Approx. 50 km
• Drinking Water Resupply:
  • Best to source from a major town like Bairnsdale or Orbost before heading into the mountains.
• Public Toilets (offsite):
  • Located in the main street park in Buchan.

Seasonal Weather Forecast

• Summer (Dec-Feb): Warm to hot days, but evenings are often cool due to the high altitude. High bushfire risk. Temperatures average 12°C to 28°C.
• Autumn (Mar-May): Crisp, clear days and cold nights. The autumn colours are spectacular. Temperatures average 5°C to 20°C.
• Winter (Jun-Aug): Very cold, with severe frosts, frequent fog, and snowfalls are common. Roads can be closed. Average temperatures range from -2°C to 10°C.
• Spring (Sep-Nov): Mild and sunny, but weather is highly unpredictable and can change rapidly. The landscape is lush and rivers are high. Temperatures average 4°C to 18°C.