It’s a great time to experience this unique and much-loved region and support local businesses.

A road with big gumtrees at Mountain Dam Campground with a toilet facility.
Picnic by the Rocklands Reservoir at Mountain Dam.

Where to visit

If you’re a self-sufficient camper and looking for a quiet and secluded spot, check out Victoria's second largest reservoir – Rocklands Reservoir in Rocklands State Forest. The reservoir is located on Wotjobaluk, Jaadwa, Jadawadjali, Wergaia and Jupagulk Country west of Grampians (Gariwerd) National Park.

Choose from 6 campgrounds:

It’s the perfect spot for boating, waterskiing and fishing with easy access via the boat ramps.

Head north to Black Range State Park, to enjoy the ancient and rich landscape, or explore the park by foot on any of the 3 walking tracks.

Further west towards Dimboola is the Wail State Forest which borders the Little Desert National Park. Get your bushwalking fix by walking through brown stringybarks, cypress pines, yellow gums and red gum trees along the Wail Trail and Scenic Loop. You can choose from one of 6 campsites dotted along the Wimmera River.

Two people looking at a map along the Beeripmo Walk
Meander through stringybark and native pine open woodland in Wail State Forest.

North of Beaufort is Mount Cole State Forest where you’ll find beautiful, shaded picnic areas and campgrounds like:

Or you could embark on the 21 km, 2 day scenic Beeripmo Walk that is now open.

Beeripmo Walk offers stunning views of the surrounding plains and hills
Beeripmo Walk offers stunning views of the surrounding plains and hills.

Camp for free

These state forests campgrounds are free, and you don’t need to book ahead, with sites available on a first-come, first-served basis.

State forest campground visitor facilities

Most recreation sites in state forests offer only basic facilities so it’s important to know what these are and what you need to bring with you.

Visitors will need to pack essentials like drinking water, sun protection, first aid kits and a reliable map or GPS to navigate where there is no phone coverage.

For more information visit prepare for your visit.

Campfires in state forests

In state forests, you can light campfires and use a stove or BBQ when the conditions are safe.

Always fully extinguish your fire before you go to bed or leave, even for a short period, like going for a short walk. If it’s cool to touch, it’s safe to leave.

Only use water to put out your fire, not soil. Ashes can stay hot underneath dirt and reignite days later, starting a bushfire long after you’ve left.

Know the rules about campfires in state forests.

January 2025 fire update

Across December 2024 and January 2025 large fires impacted the Grampians (Gariwerd) National Park and Little Desert National Park. These fires affected local communities during their peak tourism season.

Some closures are still in place as rehabilitation and recovery works progress. Visit Parks Victoria for information about visiting Grampians (Gariwerd) National Park and Little Desert National Park.

Planned burning

Before you go, stay informed about autumn planned burns and always check VicEmergency for Fire Danger Ratings, Total Fire Bans, advice and warnings.

Page last updated: 17/04/25