vol 4 gold fields

Contents 4.1 Golden Triangle ........................................................................................................................................................ 3

4.2(a) Bendigo (north) .................................................................................................................................................. 11

4.2(b) Bendigo (south) .................................................................................................................................................. 20

4.2 Pyrenees ................................................................................................................................................................. 32

4.3.1 Mt Cole State Forest ....................................................................................................................................... 39

4.3 Ballarat ................................................................................................................................................................... 45

4.1 Golden Triangle

Ref Site Sub Site Rating

1 Wedderburn Skinners Flat Reservoir Park 3.9

2 Mt Korong Scenic Reserve 4.1

3 Ryan Cr

4 Kooyoora State Park Melville Caves 3.2

5 Logan Pub 2.9

6 Water Point

7 Kara-Kara State Park Teddington 4.1

8 Spring Valley 3.0

9 Tarnagulla Historic Reserve 3.8

10 Loddon State Forest Waanyarra 3.9

11 Paddys Range State Park Karri Track 4.0

12 Talbot State Forest Stony Creek 3.6

1. Wedderburn : Skinners Flat Reservoir Park Type Reserve Picnic Ground

Situated by an old reservoir north of Wedderburn. Access from Wedderburn: North 5.6k on the Calder Hwy [A79], right (north) 1k on the twisty, narrow Mt Kerang Rd (gravel). Privacy Good: Well off main roads

VicRoads 29 B7 Hema 41 K9 Access Conventional Size 5+ Height 220

Suit: Facilities:

Boundary Not controlled Firewood Available Bookings No: pot luck

Activities CFA District N. West Visit 12/11/01 Ref 191

Site description Four quiet picnic areas dispersed along the shore of the reservoir with thin shade from Yellow Gum and Red Box over gravel. Most sites slope a little. Backed by a very large flora reserve - ironbark forest wildflowers in spring. Reservoir may not be full. Warnings Narrow, twisty access road probably not suitable for large rigs

2. Mt Korong Scenic Reserve Type Reserve Picnic Ground Situated below Mount Korong, between Wedderburn and Inglewood.

VicRoads 29 D9 Hema 41 K10 Access Sealed Road Size 3+ Height 200

Suit:

Facilities: Boundary Not controlled Firewood Available Bookings No: pot luck

Activities: CFA District N. West Visit 20/11/01 Ref 792

Access from Wedderburn: South-east 8.5k on the Calder Hwy [A79], left (east) 6k on the Wedderburn-Serpentine Rd, left into the Reserve (Major Mitchell sign post), right 300m on narrow gravel track Privacy Very good: Well off a low use country road Site description A spacious reserve backed by the steep granite slopes of Mount Korong (364m). The small, peaceful picnic area (1 table) is level, grassed over granite with thin shade from a couple of large Yellow Gum and surrounded by wattle scrub. A pleasant, quiet camp with few tourists; can be hot in summer. The track up Mount Korong (364m) often runs over granite slabs. Major Mitchell's view was hampered by fog and rain but the outlook can be panoramic. Colourful Rock Isotome (Isotoma axillaris) are common in spring and summer.

3. Ryan Cr : Rest Area Type Road Rest Area Roadside

Situated on the Calder Hwy [A79] 17k nor-west of Inglewood, 10k sou-east of Wedderburn. VicRoads 29 D9 Hema 41 K10 Access Sealed Road Height 160 Privacy Adjacent to busy highway

Suit: Facilities:

Site description "small area with a couple of large trees" CFA District N. West Visit not yet Ref 190

4. Kooyoora State Park : Melville Caves Type State Park Camp Ground

Situated off the Calder Hwy [A70] between Inglewood and Wedderburn, west of Bendigo. Access from Bendigo: North-west 35k on the Calder Hwy [A70] to Inglewood, left (south-west) 15k on the Inglewood-Rehola Rd, keep right at Y junction 3.5k on the Wehia-Kingower Rd, right 2.5k on (signposted) the Melville Caves Rd. Privacy Well of main road, adjacent to tourist road.

VicRoads 43 D3 Hema 39 A10 Access Sealed Road Size 8+ Height 380

Suit:

Facilities:

Boundary Not controlled Firewood Supplied Bookings No: pot luck

Activities Contact Parks Vic Inglewood (03) 5438 3066 CFA District N. West Visit 10/10/00 Ref 610

Site description Situated on a broad, sloping ridge top the camp ground consists of two large fenced areas containing informal sites, some grassed and shaded but all sloping. Partial shade is provided by scattered Box, Stringybark and wattle. Benches (4) are distant from BBQs (6). Popular with school groups. Potentially hot and dry in summer, exposed to winter winds. The nearby summit provides good views and the fissures allegedly provided shelter for bushrangers. The granitic soils foster a woodland of Box (Long-leaved, Yellow), Red Stringybark and Forest Red Gum with an understory of Black Wattle and shrubs. Surrounding the outcrop the sedimentary soils support Grey Box, Ironbark and yellow Gum intermingled with mallee. Wildflowers are plentiful and varied - best in spring. Bird life is plentiful and varied, included White and Major Mitchell cockatoos

5. Logan Type Private land Informal/unofficial

Situated in the yard behind the Logan Pub at the junction of the Bendigo-St Arnaud [B240] and Wedderburn [C273] Roads VicRoads 42 J3 Hema 39 A9 Access Sealed Road Size 3+ Height 170 Privacy Poor: exposed to Wedderburn Rd

Suit: Facilities: negotiate services with the barman Bookings Possible

Site description A small, level, grassed (mown) yard at the rear of the hotel with some shade. Check with publican first. This is a true "1 pub town": there is nothing else there (including no town). Activities: Country pub Contact Logan Pub (03) 5496 2220 CFA District N. West Visit 11/10/00 Ref 936

6. Water Point Type State Forest Picnic Ground

Situated south of St Arnaud. Access from St Arnaud: South 16k on the Sunraysia Hwy (B220), right (sou-west) 3k on Thwaites Rd (gravel), continue east on the Rostron-Stuart Mill Rd 1.4k, right (north) up Centre Rd ?1k VicRoads 42 E6 Hema 39 B8 Height 320 Site description "an attractive picnic area near a large pond" Ironbarks, Box, Peppermints and wattles Major Mitchell first viewed the Grampians from a viewpoint north along the ridge. CFA District N. West Visit not yet Ref 793

7. Kara-Kara State Park : Teddington Type State Park Camp Ground

Situated off the Sunrasia Hwy [B220], south of St Arnaud, by the Upper Teddington Reservoir Access from St Arnaud: South 23k on the Sunrasia Hwy [B220] to Stuart Mill, right (south-west) 6k on the Teddington Rd (signposted) past the Lower Teddington Reservoir into the State Park, 600m gravel to camping area Privacy Good: Well off main roads; expect day trippers; popular at peak periods

VicRoads 42 F7 Hema 39 B9 Access Conventional Size 10+ Height 320

Suit:

Facilities: Boundary Not controlled Firewood NO-BYO Bookings No: pot luck

Activities ; gold mining relics Contact Parks Vic CFA District N. West Visit 11/11/01 Ref 609

Site description A pleasant lakeside camping area surrounded by rough, forested hills. Fireplaces and tables (9) are scattered but may have to be shared at peak periods. Thin shade from Yellow and Grey Box to most sites. Most sites slope. Plentiful bird life including rosellas and cockatoos. Backed by dry, open ironbark-box forest with shrubby understory and wildflowers. Warnings Beware of mine shafts, no swimming, no firewood collection permitted

8. Spring Valley Type Road Rest Area Roadside

Situated on the Sunraysia Hwy [B220] 34k north of Avoca, well signposted. Privacy Reasonable: visually secluded but with occasional traffic noise.

VicRoads 42 G7 Hema 39 B9 Access Sealed Road Size 4+ Height 280

Suit:

Facilities: Boundary Not controlled Firewood Available Bookings No: pot luck CFA District N. West Visit 12/11/01 Ref 180

Site description A standard roadside rest area but with an extended level area (old roadway) behind, secluded by vegetation. Well shaded by large Yellow Gums. Facing paddocks and forested hills.

9. Tarnagulla Historic Reserve Type LG Reserve Recreation Reserve

VicRoads 43 F6 Hema 39 B10 Other VicRoads 222B9 Access Sealed Road Size 2+ Height 220

Suit:

Facilities:

Boundary Not controlled Firewood Available Fees $5 per site/night Bookings Possible Contact Loddon Shire Tarnagulla (03) 5438 7302 CFA District N. West

Visit 10/10/00 Ref 749

Situated just outside Tarnagulla [B240] between Bridgewater and Dunolly. Access on the southern edge of Tarnagulla off the Bridgewater-Dunolly Rd [C274]: West 0.4k on Wyman St, (signposted), to the recreation reserve. Privacy Reasonable: Well of main roads, adjacent to recreation reserve: private except on sports days. Site description A picturesque, interesting, quiet site but potentially noisy if sport is being played. A small picnic area between a historic oval and a reservoir. Light shade is provided by scattered Red Ironbark with no understory over gravely clay with little grass. The historic reserve extends for some distance beyond the reservoir. Facilities (2 benches, 2 BBQ, light, play ground, oval, tennis court and a large 2 story pavilion) are very well maintained. Power outlets are by the caretakers cabin. Hot showers are $1 coin operated.

Activities: tennis, historic ruins. Yabbies in reservoir, reportedly

10. Loddon State Forest : Waanyarra Type State Forest Camp Ground

Situated By Waanyarra Cr, between Bridgewater and Dunnolly Access from Dunolly [C276]: North-east 10k on the Bridgewater-Dunolly [C274] Rd, right (south-east) 3k (signposted) on the Waanyarra Cemetery Rd, on the right not far past the historic cemetery.

Privacy Good: Well off main roads, on a circuit road off a low use forestry road.

VicRoads 43 E7 Hema 39 B10 Access Conventional Size 5+ Height 200

Suit:

Facilities:

Boundary Not controlled Firewood Available Bookings No: pot luck Contact DSE CFA District N. West Visit 9/10/00 Ref 748

Activities : Historic cemetery,

nature study.

Site description A grassed creek flat surrounded by White Ironbark forest with a thin understudy of wattle and brush, wildflowers and old gold diggings with Grey Box and Red Ironbark on the flinty ridges makes this a pleasant, quiet site in spring and autumn, although it may be hot and dusty in summer. The Waanyarra Creek is normally dry. The fenced formal facility (shelter, table, 2 BBQs, & WC), established as a bicycle trail camp, has limited shade but there are many informal shaded sites nearby, including a large bush camp site just up the nearby road on the right. Peppercorn, apple, quince, grape and cacti are remnants of mining settlements, which were extensive through this forest.

11. Paddys Range State Park : Karri Track Type State Park Camp Ground

Situated just south of Maryborough, north of Ballarat. Access from Maryborough: West 4k on the Pyrenees Hwy [B180], left (south-west) 1.3k on the Old Avoca Rd, left (south) 1.8k on the Karri Track (gravel) (signposted), left (east) 0.2k on a signposted track to its end. Privacy Very good: Well of the main road, park road and 2.5k from the day picnic area. Shrubs providescreening between some sites.

VicRoads 58 D3 Hema 39 C10 Other Parks Vic Pamphlet Access Conventional Size 3+ Height 260

Suit:

Facilities:


Activities: Nature study

Contact Parks Vic Maryborough (03) 5461 1055 CFA District N. West Visit 3/09/00 Ref 626

Site description A small, quiet semi-arid box-ironbark camp, well away from roads and day areas. Three dispersed sites designated by clearings in the scrub, one large enough for a couple of rigs, each with a fireplace. One table, pit toilet and small water tank. Set on low rolling gravely hills forested with Red Iron-bark and Grey Box with a good understory of scattered wattles, shrubs and grass - a profusion of wild flowers in spring. Kangaroos, wallabies, rabbits, echidnas, wedge-tailed eagles, falcons and honeyeaters are common, with water birds around the old Goldfields Reservoir to the east nearer the Ballarat Rd. There is a walking trail 2.5k to the picnic ground where an information board describes other walks. Gold mining relics, Aboriginal sites. Warnings Can be hot, dry and dusty in summer. The narrow winding Karri Track may be a little difficult for caravans and long rigs.

12. Talbot State Forest : Stony Creek Type State Forest, Picnic Ground

Situated south of Maryborough and Talbot, north of Ballarat. Access from Evansford (south of Talbot): North-east 1.8k on Evansford-Clunes Rd (Waubar Rd), left (north) 1.4k on Thomas Rd (gravel) which becomes Stoney Creek Rd (narrow gravel) turning nor-east into the Forest, on the left. Dry weather access from the Old Ballarat Rd is possible Privacy Reasonable: just off a very low use forest road Site description A small picnic ground in box-ironbark forest. Thin shade from Yellow Box over gravel. Best in spring, can be hot and dry in summer. The fenced area behind the picnic ground is an old school, with rocks surrounding garden beds established c1902

VicRoads 58 C5 Hema 39 D10 Access Conventional Size 2+ Height 300

Suit:

Facilities:

Activities:

Boundary Parking fence Firewood Available Bookings No: pot luck Contact DSE Maryborough CFA District N. West Visit 14/03/03 Ref 794

4.2(a) Bendigo (north)


1 Greater Bendigo National Park Rush Dam 3.9

2 Greater Bendigo National Park Mulga Dam 3.9

3 Runnymeade Highway Park

3.1

4 Englishs Rd Reserve

3.9

5 Barnadown

3.8

6 Huntly Huntly-Epsom Lions Park 3.5

7 Greater Bendigo National Park Loesar 3.1

8 Greater Bendigo National Park Shadbolt 4.1

9 Greater Bendigo National Park Notley 4.0

10 Wellsford State Forest Dodder 2.6

11 Wellsford State Forest Mahers Dam 3.2

12 Wellsford State Forest Gunyah

1. Greater Bendigo National Park: Rush Dam Type State Park, Bush camp Situated near the north-western edge of the Park, north of Bendigo, west of Elmore. Access from Bendigo [A79]: North east 13k on the Midland Hwy [A300] to Huntly, left (north) 18.5k on Burgoyne St which becomes the Neilborouh (Millwood) Rd (sealed 5k) and then Kamarooka West Rd, left (west) 0.8k on Camp Rd (narrow, some gravel). Privacy Good: A quiet site surrounded by box-iron bark forest and wattle by a very low use track.

VicRoads 44 G2 Hema 39 A12 Other FCV Bendigo Whipstick Forest Park Access Conventional Size 5+ Height 150

Suit:

Facilities:

Activities: Boundary Not controlled Firewood Available Bookings No: pot luck Contact Parks Vic CFA District N. West Visit 22/08/00 Ref 629 Warnings Do not depend on the dam for water. May be hot and dusty in summer.

Site description Dispersed bush camping by a large dam wall (with little water) surrounded by dry Box forest. A quiet site surrounded by box-iron bark forest and wattle by a very low use track. Open shade to most sites provided by Grey Box and Yellow Gum (White Ironbark) with some heath understory and minimal grass cover to the gravely soil. There are indications of early settlement - eucalyptus oil tanks, clearings and a grassed house site with two peppercorn trees overlooking a paddock of Whirrakee wattle. Spectacular wildflowers in spring. The area is claimed to have the highest concentration of songbirds in Australia. Being on the north/south divide between habitats species common to both wetter and dryer areas are present.

2. Greater Bendigo National Park: Mulga Dam Type State Park, Bush camp

Situated near the northern edge of the Park, north of Bendigo, west of Elmore. Access from Bendigo [A79]: North east 15k on the Midland Hwy [A300] through Huntly, left (north) 16.6k on the Tennyson Rd [C338] to about 1.5k short of the Elmore-Raywood Rd [C337], left (west) 0.8k on Camp Rd (narrow, winding, flat, graded natural gravel). Privacy Good: by a little used road surrounded by box-iron bark forest Site description A small quiet site in open box-iron bark forest by a small dam. One fireplace and bench located by the little used forestry road. Grey Box and Yellow Gum provide quite good shade, for a semi-arid area, with an understory of low heath scrub. Minimal grass cover to the gravely soil. Spectacular wildflowers in spring. Claimed to have the highest concentration of songbirds in Australia. Being on the north/south divide between habitats species common to both wetter and dryer areas are present. Warnings Do not depend on the dam for water. Can be hot and dusty in summer.

VicRoads 44 G2 Hema 39 A12 Other FCV Bendigo Whipstick Forest Park 1:75,000 Access Conventional Size 2+ Height 150

Suit:

Facilities : Boundary Not controlled Firewood Available Bookings No: pot luck

Activities: nature study

Contact Parks Vic CFA District N. West Visit 22/08/00 Ref 628

3. Runnymeade Highway Park

Type Road Rest Area, Hwy Park

Situated between the Northern Hwy [B75] and the Campaspe Rv, north-east of Bendigo, just south of Elmore. Access from Elmore: East 2k on the Midland Hwy [A300], right (south) 3k on the Northern [B75] Hwy, signposted on the right (west). Privacy Reasonable: Most sites observable from highway 200-300m through open, scattered trees. A few sites down the river bank are secluded.

VicRoads 45 B2 Hema 39 A13 Access Sealed Road Size 15+ Height 130

Suit: Facilities:

Activities: if the river flows Boundary Not controlled Firewood Available Bookings No: pot luck Contact VicRoads CFA District N. East Visit 22/08/00 Ref 726

Site description For a roadside rest area quite a good overnight site. A large, level grassed reserve, with scattered Yellow Box (mature and juvenile) plus some wattle providing some shade and privacy although most sites are observable from the highway 200-300m away. Signs request rubbish be taken with you but bins are provided and obviously emptied. Some shrub planting has been

undertaken (by a local school) but what could be an attractive site suffers from lack of maintenance (Aug 2000):

the day area is overgrown

the high quality toilet block is scruffy

the electric BBQ is not working. A good gravel, graded track leads down to the Campaspe River flood flats with 3+ secluded sites shaded by Red River Gum (mature and juvenile). River flow is limited, even in winter, unless Lake Eppalock is full. Beware of flash floods.

4. Goornong: Englishs Rd Reserve Type Reserve, Bush camp

Situated on the Campaspe Rv nor-east of Bendigo. Access from Goornong on the Midland Hwy [A300] (29k nor-east of Bendigo): East at the hotel 400m on Chute St, left (east) 5k on Englishs Rd, cross the Campaspe Rv, tracks on the left and right. Privacy Good: Secluded from very low use country road

VicRoads 45 A3 Hema 39 A12 Access Dry weather only Size 25+ Height 135

Suit:

Facilities:

Activities: , if the river flows Boundary Not controlled Firewood Available Bookings No: pot luck CFA District N. East Visit 19/11/01 Ref 921

Site description Pleasant, quiet, large riverside reserve. Generally level, open, well grassed with riverside Red gums. Recent tree plantings will improve aspect.

5. Goornong: Barnadown Type Reserve, Bush camp

Situated on the Campaspe Rv nor-east of Bendigo. Access from Goornong on the Midland Hwy [A300] (29k nor-east of Bendigo): South-east 6k on the Barnadown Rd , cross the Campaspe Rv, track on the right at a fish sign, 200m. Privacy Reasonable: Well off but within view of low use country road Site description Pleasant riverside camping, level and well shaded by River Red Gums over short grass. A reasonably large reserve but road is within view through open forest. Warnings Access track may be slippery if wet

VicRoads 45 A4 Hema 39 A12 Access Dry weather only Size 5+ Height 140

Suit:

Facilities::

Activities: , if the river flowing Boundary Not controlled Firewood Available Bookings No: pot luck CFA District N. East Visit 19/11/01 Ref 920

6. Huntly:- Huntly-Epsom Lions Park Type Road Rest Area, Roadside

Situated on the southern edge of Huntly, north-east of Bendigo, by Back Creek. Signposted on the Midland Hwy [A300] 11k north-east of Bendigo Privacy Reasonable: Off the Midland Hwy secluded by trees and ablution block, regular traffic noise

VicRoads 44 G4 Hema 39 A12 Other VicRoads 277M8; Macromap "Bendigo Naturally-Rural" Access Sealed Road Size 3 Height 160

Suit:

Facilities:

Boundary Parking fence Bookings No: pot luck CFA District N. West Visit 12/10/00 Ref 771

Site description A surprisingly pleasant rest area near Bendigo. About the size of a house block with a level, gravelled circuit parking area secluded behind the ablution block and shrubs. This small park is well shaded by large Yellow Gums by the small Back Creek. Facilities (small picnic ground by creek) are well maintained.

7. Greater Bendigo National Park: Loesar Type State Park, Camp Ground

Situated north of Bendigo. Access from Bendigo [A79]: North 6k on the Loddon Valley Hwy [B260] through California Gully, just over the railway bridge turn right (north-east) 3k on Jobs Gully Rd, cross Eaglehawk-Epsom Rd, north 5.5k on the Eaglehawk-Neilborough Rd (gravel), right (north) 3.8k on Sandfly Rd, right (east) 0.2k on Skylark Rd, left (north) 1k on Loesar Rd. Alternative access from Huntly (Midland Hwy) via Millwood and Boundary Rds Privacy Reasonable: Adjacent and open to low use forestry roads.

VicRoads 44 F4 Hema 39 A12 Other FCV Bendigo Whipstick Forest Park Access Conventional Size 6+ Height 180

Suit:

Facilities:

Activities:

Nature study, Boundary Not controlled Firewood Available Bookings No: pot luck Warnings Potentially hot, dry and dusty in summer. Contact Parks Vic CFA District N. West Visit 12/10/00 Ref 632

Site description An old eucalyptus still site with limited shade from scattered Yellow Gum (White Ironbark) (E. leucoxylon) below a large dam. A dry, informal open camp with 3 benches and BBQs, potentially hot and dusty in summer. An old engine boiler and the dam are the main distinguishing features. Situated in an open forest of Grey Box (E. microcarpa), Red Ironbark (E. sideroxylon) and Whipstick mallee (blue, green, and bull mallees) on clay and rocky ground. Spectacular wildflowers in spring. A wide range of songbirds, especially in spring.

8. Greater Bendigo National Park: Shadbolt Type State Park, Camp Ground Situated not far north of Bendigo on the western edge of the Park. Access from Bendigo [A79]: North 6k on the Loddon Valley Hwy [B260] through California Gully, just over the railway bridge turn right (north-east) 3k on Jobs Gully Rd, cross the Eaglehawk-Epsom Rd, north 6k on the Eaglehawk-Neilborough Rd (gravel) to the Notley Camp turnoff, continue on 3.6k past the old Camp Hotel (closed) and Skylark Rd turnoff (signposted parking area), right 0.1k on a signposted access road. Privacy Good - a forested cul-de-sac off main roads.

Site description A small clearing in open forest of Red Ironbark backed by a mixture of Yellow Gum (White Ironbark) and Grey Box with Whipstick mallee (blue, green, and bull mallees) on clay and rocky ground. Originally an eucalyptus oil distillery site there are a few peppercorn trees and cacti scattered around the dam just below the camp site, all contributing to provide the most attractive camp around Bendigo. The fenced, level cul-de-sac car park can be crowded with picnickers at weekends and constrains access to the facilities (3 benches, 2 BBQs). Best in spring when wildflowers are spectacular. Songbirds are common: being on the north/south divide between habitats, species common to both wetter and dryer areas are present.

VicRoads 44 E4 Hema 39 A12 Other FCV Bendigo Whipstick Forest Park Access Conventional Size 4+ Height 200

Suit:

Facilities:

Activities:

Nature study Boundary Parking fence Firewood Limited Bookings No: pot luck Warnings Potentially hot in summer. Contact Parks Vic CFA District N. West Visit 11/10/00 Ref 630

9. Greater Bendigo National Park: Notley Type State Park, Camp Ground

Situated not far north of Bendigo. Access from Bendigo [A79]: North 6k on the Loddon Valley Hwy [B260] through California Gully, just over the railway bridge turn right (north-east) 3k on Jobs Gully Rd, cross the Eaglehawk-Epsom Rd, north 6k on the Eaglehawk-Neilborough Rd (gravel), left 0.4k on Notley Rd (signposted). Privacy Very good - at the end of a cul-de-sac off main roads, the camping area is separated from the day area.

VicRoads 44 F4 Hema 39 A12 Other FCV Bendigo Whipstick Forest Park Access Conventional Size 7 Height 180

Suit:

Facilities:

Activities:

Nature studyBoundary Specific sites Firewood Limited Bookings No: pot luck Warnings Potentially hot in summer Contact Parks Vic CFA District N. West Visit 10/10/00 Ref 631

Site description Situated in an open dry sclerophyll forest of Grey Box, Red Ironbark and Yellow Gum (White Ironbark) on gravel this is a quiet camping area at the end of a cul-de-sac. Designated sites are scattered around a circuit road by a large grassed clearing (fenced for rejuvenation). All 7 car parks are level, gravelled and lightly shaded but only 3 have a table and BBQ (gas cooking preferred) and all are short (6-7m). A bus parking area is without shade. There is a very large shelter shed and an old dam in the separate day area. Spectacular wildflowers in spring. Potentially hot and dry in summer. Claimed to have the highest concentration of songbirds in Australia. Being on the north/south divide between habitats species common to both wetter and dryer areas are present.

10. Wellsford State Forest: Dodder Type State Forest, Picnic Ground

Situated just north-east of Bendigo. Access from Bendigo: North-east 5k on the Midland Hwy [A300], right (east) 3.5k on the Strathdale-White Hills Rd [C343] Rd which continues on as Heinz St after the racecourse (gravel 2k) to the junction with Soundry Rd and Dodder Track. Privacy Poor, adjacent to the junction of three roads.

VicRoads 44 G5 Hema 39 B12 Other MacroMap " Bendigo Naturally - Rural" Access Conventional Size 1 Height 200

Suit: Facilities:

Activities:

Nature study Boundary Parking fence Firewood Available Bookings No: pot luck Warnings Potentially hot in summer Contact DSE Bendigo (03) 5430 4444 CFA District N. West Visit 10/10/00 Ref 651

Site description A small picnic ground with a very small, sloping fenced parking area. Thin shade provided by Black Ironbark with a thin heath understory. Wildflowers plentiful in spring. Facilities (table and BBQ) broken. A rather scruffy site which can be hot and dusty in summer. Situated on the Bendigo Bushland Walking Trail this is a popular picnicking and horse riding area. Dispersed bush camping (no facilities) is encouraged away from day use areas.

11. Wellsford State Forest: Mahers Dam Type State Forest, Picnic Ground

Situated north-east of Bendigo. Access from Bendigo: East 3.6k on the McIvor Hwy [B260], left (north) 0.8k on Pratts Park Rd across Strickland Rd and the O'Keefe Rail Trail to the Rifle Range Picnic Ground, sharp right 0.6k on the Rifle Range Rd (gravel) left (north-east) 5.5k on Plant Rd (narrow, twisty, but level gravel). (At 2.3k pass the Dodder Trk [1.2k to the Dodder Picnic Ground], a further 1.7k keep right at the unsigposted Y junction, the Dam is 1.5 further on). Privacy Reasonable: off low use forest road, bush sites available further around dam. Warnings Hot, dry and dusty in summer.

Site description Situated in dry Red Ironbark forest on gravely clay by an unexpectedly large dam. The picnic facilities (2 benches, 2 BBQs) are contained within a small fenced enclosure just above the dam wall. Informal bush camping sites are available further up around the dam. Thin shade from Red and White Ironbark with a minimal understory. Wildflowers are prolific in spring. Horesriding is popular, encouraging flies. A rather scruffy, dry area relieved only by the dam.

VicRoads 44 H5 Hema 39 B12 Other MacroMap " Bendigo Naturally - Rural" Access Conventional Size 8+ Height 200

Suit:

Facilities:

Activities: Nature study Boundary Not controlled Firewood Limited Bookings No: pot luck Contact DSE Bendigo (03) 5430 4444 CFA District N. West Visit 10/10/00 Ref 768

12. Wellsford State Forest: Gunyah Type State Forest, Picnic Ground Situated north-east of Bendigo. Access from Bendigo: East 3.6k on the McIvor Hwy [B260], left (north) 0.8k on Pratts Park Rd across Strickland Rd and the O'Keefe Rail Trail to the Rifle Range Picnic Ground, sharp right 0.6k on the Rifle Range Rd (gravel) left (north-east) 10k on Plant Rd (narrow, twisty, but level gravel). (At 4k keep right at the unsigposted Y junction, pass the Mahers Dam 1.5 further on). VicRoads 44 H5 Hema 39 B12 Other MacroMap " Bendigo Naturally - Rural" Access Conventional Height 190 Privacy Poor: By forestry road junction

Facilities: Activities: Nature study

Site description Situated in dry Red Ironbark forest on gravely clay. Thin shade from Red and White Ironbark with a minimal understory although wildflowers are prolific in spring. Bush camping away from day areas is encouraged. Contact DSE Bendigo (03) 5430 4444 CFA District N. West Visit not yet Ref 769

4.2(b) Bendigo (south)


13 Marong State Forest Bullock Picnic Ground 3.6

14 Lockwood South Happy Jacks Streamside Reserve 3.3

15 Bridgewater on Loddon The Mill 3.5

16 Newbridge River Reserve 3.8

17 Laanecoorie River Reserve 3.6

18 Maldon Historic Reserve Butts Reserve 3.3

19 Muckleford State Forest Red White & Blue Mine 3.7

20 Newstead

3.1

21 Castlemain Jessie Kennedy Reserve 2.7

22 Vaughan Mineral Springs Caravan Park 3.9

23 Warburton Bridge Reserve

2.9

24 Harcourt Ellerys 2.0

25 Faraday

1.8

26 Mt Alexander Regional Park Koala Park 4.3

27 Harcourt The Oaks 4.1

28 Heathcote-Graytown National Park Dargile Plantation 3.3

13. Marong State Forest:- Bullock Picnic Ground Type State Forest, Picnic Ground

Situated west of Bendigo, off the Calder Alternative Hwy Access from Bendigo: West 14k on the Calder Hwy [A79] to Marong, left south 5.5k on the Calder Alternative [A790] to just south of the Bullock Cr bridge, left (north-east) 200m on the Bullock Rd, on the right. Privacy Good: Out of sight of highway, although there is some distant traffic noise at night.

VicRoads 44 D6 Hema 39 B11 Other MacroMap "Bendigo Naturally - Rural" Access Conventional Size 4+ Height 100

Suit:

Facilities:

Activities: Nature study

Boundary Not controlled Firewood Available Bookings No: pot luck Contact DSE Bendigo (03) 5430 4444 CFA District N. West Visit 10/10/00 Ref 650

Site description A reasonably pleasant, quiet overnight stop situated in open Ironbark forest on rocky soil. Facilities (6 benches, 3 BBQs) are spread up a gully by a seasonal creek below a large, old water supply reservoir. Although located on a hillside, there are level grassed sites, the heritage of eucalyptus distillery activity. Ruined brick walls remain. Shade is provided by White Ironbark and Grey Box. Although undergrowth is minimal wildflowers (and birdlife) are prolific in spring. Green Gully Reservoir is situated 100m further up the gully.

14. Lockwood South: Happy Jacks Streamside Reserve Type Reserve, Picnic Ground

VicRoads 44 D7 Hema 39 B11 Access Sealed Road Size 6+ Height 230

Suit: Facilities:

Boundary Not controlled Firewood Limited Bookings No: pot luck CFA District N. West Visit 12/10/00 Ref 188

Situated off the Calder Hwy Alternate by-passing south-west of Bendigo. Access: Off the Calder Hwy Alternate [A790] about 0.6k north of the Maldon Rd [C283] junction, opposite Happy Jacks store at Lockwood South (signposted rest area). Privacy Reasonable: Large area, some sites secluded by slope and trees but traffic noise is regular. Site description A convenient, pleasant overnight stop although there is regular traffic noise. The large roadside reserve is a level, green, grassy creek flat below the highway, shaded by very large River Red Gums and with a pleasant outlook across the Bullock Creek (small, filled with bulrushes) to treed hills. May be boggy if wet. Country store and phone box over the highway The original facilities (4 benches) are on a small terrace nearer but below the highway. Toilets have been relocated to the recreation ground (follow sealed road a few metres to the south), complete with a sealed car park which is un-shaded and overlooked from the highway. Warnings Creek flats may be boggy after rain

15. Bridgewater on Loddon: The Mill Type Reserve, Informal/unofficial

Situated by the Loddon Rv just north of the flour mill at Bridgewater on Loddon Access from Bridgewater (Calder Hwy [A79]): North 1.2k on the Bridgewater-Raywood Rd to just past Waterwheel vineyard, left (west) 0.5k on an unnamed lane (gravel) to the large turning circle by the flour mill back gate, short rocky track down to the Loddon River on right. Privacy Good: Well off highway, some hum from the mill

VicRoads 43 H3 Hema 39 A11 Access Dry weather only Size 2+ Height 130

Suit:

Facilities: Activities ,

waterfall, vineyard Boundary Not controlled Firewood Available Bookings No: pot luck Contact Loddon Shire (03) 5438 7280 CFA District N. West Visit 12/11/01 Ref 189

Site description A small level grassy area with shade from River Red Gums and peppermints overlooking an attractive local swimming hole below rapids on the Loddon Rv, spoilt by a bit of rubbish. On the western bank "The Ponds" picnic area, off Serpentine [C274] Rd, right down Chinaman's Lane, has no vehicle access and the railway land (car park) is signed no camping.

16. Newbridge: River Reserve

Type LG Reserve, Camp Ground

Situated By the Loddon River at Newbridge, south of Bridgewater, west of Bendigo. Access off the Bendigo-St Arnaud [B240] Rd by the bridge just east of Newbridge, through the recreation reserve. Privacy Good: Well off main roads but could be noisy on sports days VicRoads 43 G5 Hema 39 B11 Access Sealed Road Size 50+ Height 140

Suit: Facilities:

(small)

Activities Boundary Not controlled Firewood Limited Fees $5 per night/site Bookings Possible Contact Loddon Shire (03) 5438 7280 CFA District N. West Visit 10/10/00 Ref 750

Site description Pleasant riverside camping in the Newbridge Recreation Reserve. Extended grassed river flats (mown by sheep), shaded by River Red Gums with no understory or shrubs. A reasonably attractive area popular for fishing, although a little expensive at $5 per night/site given the limited facilities (WC and bins). Well off main roads but could be noisy on sports days. Some sites are overlooked by the road and houses across the river but there are many alternatives. Sections of the site road may be boggy after rain but there is alternative higher access by the recreation ground. Hotel and store within walking distance.

17. Laanecoorie: River Reserve Type LG Reserve, Caravan Park

Situated By the Loddon River adjacent to Laanecoorie village, south of Bridgewater, northwest of Maldon, west of Bendigo. Access off the Laanecoorie-Tarngulla Rd at Laanecoorie, on the east side of the Loddon Rv. bridge.

Privacy Reasonable: Well off but overlooked by low use country road VicRoads 43 G7 Hema 39 B10 Access Sealed Road Size 10+ Height 150

Suit:

Facilities:

Activities Boundary Not controlled Firewood Limited Fees $2.50 per night/site (power $6.50) Bookings Possible Contact Loddon Shire (03) 54357200 or 54356270 CFA District N. West Visit 10/10/00 Ref 747

Site description Pleasant riverfront camping on extended grassed tiered flats, overlooking the reasonably large London River, some sites shaded by River Red Gums and a few exotics. Facilities include WC block, 4 benches, bins, 1x4 way power outlet but no formal BBQ. Caretaker behind the shop (closed) over the road. A pleasant local fishing and swimming reserve, although a little close to the road and small village.

18. Maldon Historic Reserve: Butts Reserve Type Historic Area, Camp Ground

Situated at the base of Mt Tarrengower 3k north-west of Maldon, south-west of Bendigo. Access from Maldon [C283]: North 1.2k on the Bridgewater-Maldon Rd [C282], left (west) 1k on Franklin Street, well signposted on the left just as Franklin Street starts climbing Mt Tarrengower, camp area 300m behind the day area. Privacy Reasonable: 400m off the Mt Tarrengower lookout tourist road in a gully behind the day area.

VicRoads 44 B9 Hema 39 C11 Access Conventional Size 10+ Height 390

Suit:

Facilities: Boundary Not controlled Firewood NO-BYO Bookings No: pot luck Contact Parks Vic CFA District N. West Visit 4/09/00 Ref 9

Site description A large open woodland area near historic Maldon, at the base of Mt Tarrengower. Dispersed camping in the open gully behind the day area. Some shade from scattered Manna (Ribbony) Gum, Yellow Gum, Broad-leaved Peppermint and Grey Box over grass and granite boulders. Much of the camp area slopes and is a little scruffy. The formed access road up the gully can be rutted after rain runoff. Extensive plantings of trees and shrubs around the day area and on the surrounding ridges will improve the visual aspect. There are 5 well shaded tables and fireplaces in the day area (not signposted as such) with level, fenced parking bays, separated by shrubs.

Activities: Walking tracks to historic gold mining relics. Visit historic Maldon, climb or drive to Mt Tarrengower (570m) lookout. Warnings Advised to bring your own firewood and drinking water (the source of the tap water is uncertain).

19. Muckleford State Forest: Red White & Blue Mine Type State Forest, Camp Ground

Situated in the Muckleford Forest, west of Castlemain, south of Maldon. Access from Castlemain: West 4k on the Pyrenees Hwy [B180], right (north-west) 1.5k on the Maldon Rd [C282], left 4k on the Muckleford School Rd (gravel) to the forest boundary, half left 1.3k

VicRoads 59 C2 Hema 39 C11 Access Conventional Size 5+ Privacy Good: well off main roads but open to day trippers

Suit:

Facilities:

Activities: Boundary Not controlled Firewood Available Bookings No: pot luck Warnings Potentially hot in summer Contact DSE CFA District N. West Visit 14/03/03 Ref 1012

Site description An interesting camp in open box-ironbark forest by a large historic metal poppet head and mullock heaps. Best in spring 5 dispersed BBQs and benches, most with level parking nearby, open shade from Red Box and Ironbark and a view over one of the 3 dams.

20. Newstead: River Reserve Type Reserve, Informal/unofficial

Situated by the Loddon River in Newstead, west of Castlemaine Access tracks lead up and down stream from both sides of the Pyrenees Highway [B180] bridge Privacy Reasonable - possible to get out of view of houses and highway

VicRoads 59 B3 Hema 39 C11 Other VicRoads 286 B3 Access Dry weather only Size 5+

Suit: Facilities:

Activities Walk to the hotel

Boundary Not controlled Firewood Limited Bookings No: pot luck Warnings Beware of floods CFA District N. West Visit 14/03/03 Ref 878

Site description Riverside sites on a flood-plain reserve. Some shade from a single row of River Red Gums. Grassed (slashed) and level. No facilities. Toilets by the hall, north-east of the Loddon, on Panmure St

21. Castlemain: Jessie Kennedy Reserve

Type Road Rest Area, Roadside

Situated by the Midland Hwy [A300] 6k south of Castlemain, signed on the right Privacy Poor, limited scope to escape observation from adjacent hwy

VicRoads 59 D3 Hema 39 C11 Access Sealed Road Size 3+

Suit:

Facilities: Boundary Not controlled Firewood Limited Bookings No: pot luck Site description A reasonably large, grassed, level area by a pleasant creek valley. Some shade from a couple of large Manna Gums. Jessie Kennedy was the first European born in the area. CFA District N. West Visit 14/03/03 Ref 1011

22. Vaughan Mineral Springs: Caravan Park Type State Park, Caravan Park

Situated in the Loddon Rv gorge, south of Castlemaine, north of Daylesford. Access from Castlemaine [B180] : South 8k on the Midland Hwy [A300] almost to Yapeen, left (east) 1k to Strathloddon, right (south) 4k on the Vaughan Springs Rd to Vaughan Springs, cross the Fryers Cr bridge 300m on the Drummond Rd up to the top of the hill, right (round the Chinese cemetery) down to the park (signposted), through the day area to caravan park. Also off the Calder Hwy [A79] at Taradale , west 19k on the Fryerstown Rd. VicRoads 59 E4 Hema 39 C11 Access Sealed Road Size 14 Height 270 Privacy Good, well off main roads, at road end; but crowded at peak periods Site description Located in a secluded ravine by the upper Loddon River is a well developed picnic area and caravan park shaded by exotics, surrounded by steep rocky slopes. The caravan park, generally staffed at weekends and peak holidays, is small and rather cramped with only half the sites shaded. Little grass. Laundry, no BBQs. Caretaker may be hard to find. The free camping area near the park entry is now signed "No Camping"

Suit: Facilities:

Activities

Boundary Specific sites Fees $14 p/n Bookings Advised

Warnings Some low branches - high rigs take care. Dry and hot in summer Contact ParksVic 5473 4282 CFA District N. West Visit 13/03/03 Ref 648

23. Warburton Bridge Reserve

Type Reserve, Bush camp

On grassy flats by the Loddon Rv, south of Castlemaine, north of Daylesford, west of Malmsbury. Access from Castlemaine [B180] : South 8k on the Midland Hwy [A300] almost to Yapeen, left (east) 1k to Strathloddon, right (south) 4k on the Vaughan Springs Rd to Vaughan Springs, continue east 1.5k on the Drummond-Vaughan Rd to the Fryerstown Rd junction, right (south) 1.8k on the Drummond Rd, on the left just south of the Loddon River bridge. Also off the Calder Hwy [A79] at Malmsbury, south 4k on the Daylesford Rd [C316], right (west) 16.5k on the Drummond-Vaughan Rd. Privacy Poor: Most of the reserve is very open to the road, except for 2 sites around the hill at the back.

VicRoads 59 E4 Hema 39 C12 Access Sealed Road Size 20+ Height 290

Suit:

Facilities:

Activities Boundary Not controlled Firewood Limited Bookings No: pot luck Warnings Bring drinking water and firewood. Grass may be boggy when wet. Contact DSE CFA District N. West Visit 13/10/00 Ref 649

Site description Bush camping on the banks of the Loddon River. Most of the reserve is a cleared level paddock, well grassed but open to the road and shaded by one fir tree. Grass may be boggy when wet. Backed by a steep lightly treed ridge and facing a state forest (Yellow Box and Long-leaved (Bundy) Box) across the gurgling stream. Popular at peak periods At the rear of the site the gravelled access track winds round the base of the ridge to a secluded nook with space for 2 or 3rigs, shaded by the ridge. This can be a pleasant, small bush camp (rates 4)

24. Harcourt: Ellerys Type Road Rest Area, Roadside

On the Calder Hwy [A79] 10k south of Harcourt, 111k north of Melbourne, west side of hwy Privacy Reasonable, possible to achieve visual seclusion from adjacent highway

VicRoads 59 F3 Hema 39 E12 Access Sealed Road Size 5+

Suit: Facilities: Boundary Not controlled Firewood Limited Bookings No: pot luck CFA District N. West Visit 14/03/03 Ref 1010

Site description A large, extended gravelled area, mostly gently sloping but with a couple of level areas. Afternoon shade from Peppermint and Manna Gum. Overlooks open forest and scrub. Some rubbish. BBQ burnt out. Marked as a Parking area on VicRoads maps but signed as a Rest area.

25. Harcourt: Faraday Type Road Rest Area, Roadside On the eastern side of the Calder Hwy [A79] 7k south of Harcourt, 114k north of Melbourne. VicRoads 59 F2 Hema 39 C12 Access Sealed Road Size 2+ Height 410 Privacy Very poor: open to adjacent busy highway. Overlooked by house. Site description A broad open level area on the hill top adjacent to the highway. Shade from one large cypress and a few Peppermint. Views across open paddocks.

Suit:

Facilities: Boundary Not controlled Firewood Limited Bookings No: pot luck CFA District N. West Visit 14/03/03 Ref 187

26. Mt Alexander Regional Park: Koala Park Type State Park, Camp Ground

Located south of Bendigo, east of Harcourt. Access From Bendigo: South 36k on the Calder Hwy [A79] to Faraday, left (east) 3k on the Sutton Grange Road, left (north) (signposted) 2k up the Mt Alexander Tourist Rd (narrow, winding, sealed) past the old Koala Park, left 200m (signposted) (gravel) to the Koala Park. Privacy Good: Well of main roads, at the end of a tourist cul-de-sac; some day visitors.

VicRoads 59 F2 Hema 39 C12 Other MacroMap "Bendigo Naturally-Rural" Access Sealed Road Size 4+ Height 640

Suit:

Facilities:

Activities Koala spotting, lookouts Boundary Parking fence Firewood Available Bookings No: pot luck Warnings Cold in winter (snow) Contact Parks Vic CFA District N. West Visit 12/10/00 Ref 162

Site description An attractive, green, ridge top site well shaded and wind protected by white trunked Manna (Ribbony) Gum forest with an understory of scattered wattles and good grass cover over blue-gray granite. The cul-de-sac circuit road has a few small fenced parking areas, some with BBQ and/or bench. Dispersed bush camping is encouraged on the grassed saddle beyond the day area. Potentially cold in winter (ice and snow not unusual). Also know as Leanganoo

27. Harcourt: The Oaks Type Private land, Bush camp Situated below Mt Alexander, south of Bendigo, east of Harcourt. Access from Harcourt (30k south of Bendigo) on the Calder Hwy [A79]: East 1.5k (opposite milk bar) up Market St. Cross Danns Rd, continue east 0.5 on Picnic Rd (gravel) to sign warning against christmas tree removal and three-way road junction, sharp left (north) about 0.4k to the Oak plantation, right 200m to bush camp area. Privacy Very good, well off main roads at track end

VicRoads 59 F2 Hema 39 C12 Access Conventional Size 8+ Height 420

Suit:

Facilities:

Activities Boundary Not controlled Firewood Available Bookings No: pot luck CFA District N. West Visit 13/03/03 Ref 161 Site description

A very pleasant site on the lower slopes of Mt Alexander. Features an oak plantation planted 1900 (some dispersed bush camping possible) and a level, grassed area by a small creek (intermittent)), well shaded by mature furs and pines with a few Yellow and Manna Gums and one BBQ. Surrounding pine plantations have been cleared but are regrowing. Plentiful bird life, including kookaburras. Also known as "The Pines"

28. Heathcote-Graytown NP: Dargile Plantation Type National Park, Camp Ground

Located east of Bendigo, just north of Heathcote in Ironbark forest. Access from Bendigo [A79]: North-east 2k on the Midland Hwy [A300], right (east) 44k on the McIvor Hwy [B280] just into Heathcote, left (east) 5k on Chauncey St which becomes the Heathcote-Costerfield Rd past the showground, left (north) 4k on Plantation Rd (2.5 gravel), left (west) at a large picnic ground sign 0.6k down Plantation Tk (good gravel). Privacy Reasonable: Open to a regularly used country road. Recent shrub plantings will take a few years to screen the site. Site description A reasonably pleasant camp, if it is not crowded or the weather is not too hot. The camp consists of a sandy clearing with an adjacent large gravelled car park which slopes and has limited shade. Recently re-developed, the facilities (large shelter with 4 BBQs, tank, 5 benches, 2 BBQs, composting toilet) are good. Exposed to regular traffic on Plantation Tk although recent plantings may eventually improve privacy. Popular horse riding camp - flies. Surrounded by a White Ironbark forest with an understory of wattle, brush and wildflowers. There is a wide variety and quantity of small birds, plus flies. Wildflowers in spring. An unusual feature is a flourishing grove of Sandalwood (NSW rainforest). Informal bush camping is possible nearby, south down the adjacent track. Bush camping may be restricted as the area develops as a National Park. VicRoads 45 D7 Hema 39 B13 Other MacroMap " Bendigo Naturally - Rural" Access Conventional Size 4+ Height 240

Suit:

Facilities:

Activities

Two walking trails (2.5k & 5.5k, 1hr & 2.5hr return) Boundary Parking fence Firewood Available Bookings No: pot luck Warnings May be hot, dry and dusty in summer Contact DSE Bendigo (03) 5430 4444 CFA District N. West Visit 6/10/00 Ref 652

Loddon River below

Bridgewater

4.2 Pyrenees


1 Landsborough

2 Moonambel Mountain Creek 4.4

3 Avoca Avoca River 2.8

4 Pyrenees State Forest Number 2 Creek Waterfalls 4.2

5 Pyrenees State Forest Glenpatrick picnic ground 4.2

6 Glenpatrick Reserve 3.5

7 Elmhurst

3.6

8 Mt Buangor State Park Ferntree 4.4

9 Mt Buangor State Park Middle Creek 4.2

11~17 Mt Cole State Forest

1. Landsborough

Type Private land, Caravan Park In Landsborough village, northeast of Ararat, east of Stawell Signposted behind hotel on Burke St [C241] VicRoads 57 D2 Hema 39 C8 Access Sealed Road Height 240 Contact Landsborough Hotel (03) 5356 9320 CFA District N. West Visit not yet Ref 746

2. Moonambel: Mountain Creek Type State Forest, Picnic Ground On the edge of Moonambel village, north east of Avoca. Access from the Moonambel Hotel on the Stawell-Avoca Rd [C221]: North 200m on Greens Lane (gravel) over creek. Privacy Reasonable: Well off local through road, a couple of village houses nearby

VicRoads 42 G9 Hema 39 C9 Access Sealed Road Size 4 Height 270

Suit

Facilities:

Boundary Parking fence Firewood Limited Bookings No: pot luck Activities tour vineyards Warnings Large rigs may have difficulty turning if others are parked. Contact DSE Maryborough (03)5461 1055 CFA District S. West Visit 20/11/01 Ref 179

Site description A very attractive grassed picnic ground with a level gravelled parking area, shaded by River Red and Yellow Gums, by the intermittent Mountain Creek. Near village store, vineyards and friendly country hotel.

3. Avoca : Avoca River Type Road Rest Area, Informal/unofficial

On the Sunraysia Hwy [B220] 3k north of Avoca, access river flats from the signposted rest area just north of Vale Bridge Site description Roadside bush camping. The Rest Area is signposted 'no camping' but a track leads down to the level river flats where thick grass is occasionally slashed. Good shade and some privacy provided by River Red and Yellow gums. River flow is seasonal - flooded or dry. There is another rest area about 4k further north, well off the highway but fully exposed under open Yellow gums. Privacy Poor: Partially secluded from but near a highway

VicRoads 57 J2 Hema 39 C9 Access Dry weather only Size 4+

Suit:

Facilities:

Boundary Not controlled Firewood Available Bookings No: pot luck CFA District S. West Visit 20/11/01 Ref 178

4. Pyrenees State Forest : Number 2 Creek Waterfalls Type State Forest, Camp Ground

Situated in a gully on the edge of the forest, west of Avoca. Access from Avoca: West 300m on the Pyrenees Hwy [B180] across the Avoca Rv, right [north] 0.5k on Faraday St which turns left around the recreation reserve to become Vinoca Rd, west 12k past vineyards to the end of Vinoca Rd (as Waterfalls Track) (last 3k gravel). Privacy Good: At road end, although exposed to day visitors.

VicRoads 57 G3 Hema 39 C9 Access Conventional Size 3+ Height 380

Suit:

Facilities:


Activities

Wineries. Mt Avoca (730m) 2k 1.5h up the Pyrenees Walking Track Contact DSE Maryborough (03)5461 1055 CFA District N. West Visit 20/11/01 Ref 627

Site description An attractive secluded gully surrounded by steep forested hills looking out on rolling farmland. The grassed clearing is shaded by Yellow Gum, Yellow Box and wattles, backed by Stringybark Messmate and Red Ironbark with little understory on the rocky slopes. The small gravel car park slopes a little. Tank tap signed ‘not for drinking’. The waterfall a few metres upstream is seasonal.

5. Pyrenees State Forest : Glenpatrick Type State Forest, Picnic Ground

Situated just north of Glenpatrick, south of Mt Avoca, north of Elmhurst. Access from Elmhurst [B180]: north 10.7k on the Glenpatrick Rd (last 1.2k gravel) (300m after crossing the cement ford). Privacy Good: overlooked by a very low use forestry road, near road end

VicRoads 57 G4 Hema 39 C9 Access Conventional Size 2+

Suit:

Facilities:

Activities Boundary Not controlled Firewood Available Bookings No: pot luck Warnings Creek intermittent - bring drinking water Contact DSE Maryborough (03)5461 1055 CFA District N. West Visit 15/05/03 Ref 638

Site description A small, green, creek side flat well shaded by tall Manna Gums and surrounded by well forested steep slopes. The adjacent bubbling Glenpatrick Cr can be dry in summer. Facilities include a BBQ and 2 benches on level, short grass. Caravans and large rigs probably restricted to the high level car park. Nearby is an historic stone hut (roofless).

6. Glenpatrick : Reserve Type Reserve, Recreation Reserve

Situated at Glenpatrick, south of Mt Avoca, north of Elmhurst. VicRoads 57 G4 Hema 39 C9 Access Sealed Road Size 15+

Suit:

Facilities:

Boundary Not controlled Firewood Limited Bookings No: pot luck

Access from Elmhurst [B180]: north 9k on the Glenpatrick Rd, on the left. Privacy Reasonable: well off but overlooked by a very low use country road. Site description Glenpatrick is a small scattered settlement near the head of a secluded valley. The pleasant historic reserve is now only used for social gatherings (no pitch, no goal posts, no boundary fence) and is surrounded by massive pines. The whole area is well grassed (slashed) and level. The large shelter (with fireplace) and WC are mud brick. Old BBQs are broken. Read the sign on the old white shed. White cockatoos are common. CFA District N. West Visit 15/03/03 Ref 637

7. Elmhurst : Reserve Type Reserve, Recreation Reserve Situated on the southern edge of Elmhurst, off the Pyrenees Hwy [B180] between Ararat and Avoca. Signposted opposite the general store, about 700m south Privacy Good: on town edge, secluded by vegetation; except on sports days

VicRoads 57 E4 Hema 38 C8 Access Sealed Road Size 10+ Height 290

Suit:

Facilities:

Boundary Not controlled Firewood Limited Fees $5 per night Bookings Possible Contact PO/Store (03) 5354 8264 CFA District S. West Visit 15/03/03 Ref 887

Site description A pleasant country recreation reserve with ample shade provided by rows of pines and a few oaks over mown, level grass. Electric BBQ 20c. Wood BBQs all appear broken. Call at PO/Store for fees(?$5), keys, negotiate shower access.

8. Mt Buangor State Park : Ferntree Type State Park, Camp Ground

Situated in a forested gully, west of Ballarat, east of the Grampians. Access from Ballarat: West 58k on the Western Fwy & Hwy [M8 & A8] (to 12k west of Beaufort), right (north) 9k on the Ferntree Gully Rd (gravel) (to 400m past bridge and Bailes) picnic ground, right 500m up the signposted circuit road. Sites signposted off the "out" road VicRoads 57 E7 Hema 39 D8 Other FCV "Mount Cole State Forest" Access Conventional Size 5 Height 500 Privacy Very good: At end of tourist road, sites well spaced, expect day visitors to the falls.

Suit: Facilities:

Activities The nature trail to the water fall is wheel chair accessible.

Boundary Specific sites Firewood Available Bookings Advised Contact Parks Vic CFA District S. West Visit 21/11/01 Ref 619 Site description A very pleasant, green, attractive camp. Each of the 5 well dispersed sites has a table, BBQ and pit fireplace, small level parking and are well shaded by large Messmate and Blue Gums: wet sclerophyll forest similar to the Dandenongs. Access from the camp sites to the toilets and water tap is steep.

9. Mt Buangor State Park : Middle Creek Type State Park, Camp Ground

Situated on a wooded plain, west of Ballarat, east of the Grampians. Access from Ballarat: West 58k on the Western Fwy & Hwy [M8 & A8] (to 12k west of Beaufort), right (north) 7km on the Ferntree Gully Rd (good gravel), about 400m past the Park entrance turn left 500m down the Jimmy Smith Rd (signposted), left 200m on a signposted access road. Privacy Good: Well off main roads, internal privacy aided by the large size of the camp. Site description A pleasant, spacious, grassed, level woodland area near Middle Creek. Reasonable shade from Manna Gums, River Red Gums and wattles. Backed by forested hills and Mt Cole, facing some farm paddocks. Sites are well spaced with vegetation between. Fires only in fireplaces (11) - sharing necessary at peak periods. Kangaroos, wallabies, kookaburras, cockatoos and magpies are common. A good wet weather camp site on granitic soil, first used by Major Mitchell in 1836.

VicRoads 57 E7 Hema 39 D9 Other FCV "Mt Cole State Forest" Access Conventional Size 25+ Height 405

Suit:

Facilities:

Activities Boundary Not controlled Firewood Limited Bookings No: pot luck Contact Parks Vic CFA District S. West Visit 23/11/01 Ref 618

Pyrenees State Forest No 2 Creek Waterfall camp

Mt Buangor State Park: Ferntree camp

4.3.1 Mt Cole State Forest


11 Mt Cole State Forest Warrak Camp 3.5

12 Mt Cole State Forest Chinaman 3.9

12 Mt Cole State Forest Mugwamp 3.9

13 Mt Cole State Forest The Glut 4.2

14 Mt Cole State Forest Richards 4.5

15 Mt Cole State Forest Ditchfield 4.0

16 Mt Cole State Forest Smiths Bridge 3.4

17 Mt Cole State Forest Fortes 3.7

10. Mt Cole State Forest : Chinaman Type State Forest, Camp Ground

Situated near the north-western edge of the Forest, east of Ararat, north-west of Ballarat. Access from Ararat: East 20k on Warrak Rd (starts as Grano St) to Warrak, continue east 4.6k on the Mt Cole Rd (half gravel), at Y junction continue east (left) 0.6k on Chinaman Rd. (Signpost obscured; if you see the cemetery you have passed Chinaman Rd by 200m). Privacy Good: Well off main roads but site layout designed for car/tent camping forces most to park together


Suit:

Facilities: :

Activities

Walk to Ben Nevis

(830m) 5k 3hr 1 way Boundary Parking fence Firewood Available Bookings No: pot luck Site description

A pleasant camp tucked into a forested creek valley below the Mt Cole plateau, surrounded by lush Yellow Gum and Brown stringybark with a wattle understory. The layout is best suited to car camping: a large fenced grassed area with a single large, gravelled parking area. Some dispersed fireplace/table sites on the slope down to the creek and dam. Level bush camping is possible to the south. Facilities include 4 fireplaces and tables, pit toilets, tank water and a stone hut complete with fireplace. White cockatoos, kookaburras and wrens are common. A pleasant forested camp popular with trail-bike riders. A good cold weather camp well off main roads. Contact DSE Beaufort (03) 5349 2404 CFA District N. West Visit 2/09/00 Ref 624

11. Mt Cole State Forest : Warrak Camp Type State Forest, Informal/unofficial

Situated near the north-western edge of the Forest, east of Ararat, north-west of Ballarat. Access from Ararat: East 20k on Warrak Rd (starts as Grano St) to Warrak, continue east 4.6k on Mt Cole Rd (half gravel), keep right at the Chinaman Rd Y junction to 400m past cemetery, left on an unmaintained gravelled track 100m across a small gully, left a few metres on the low ridge. Site description A small bush camp on a low ridge by the bubbling Buckingham Creek. A small grassed clearing, apparently an old hut site, well shaded by Yellow Gums and mature wattles and surrounded by lush tall wet sclerophyll forest. White cockatoos, kookaburras and wrens are common. The Warrak Camp Picnic Area just up the ridge no longer exists. Privacy Good: Largely secluded from the forestry road by trees


Suit:

Facilities:

Activities

Boundary Not controlled Firewood Available Bookings No: pot luck Contact DSE Beaufort (03) 5349 2404 CFA District N. West Visit 2/09/00 Ref 736

12. Mt Cole State Forest : Mugwamp Type State Forest, Camp Ground

Situated high up on the Mt Cole plateau, west of Ballarat, off the Mt Cole Rd. Access from Ballarat: West 44k on the Western Fwy & Hwy [M8 & A8] to Beaufort, right (north) 9k on the Beaufort-Amphitheatre Rd to Raglin, left (north-west) 1.5k on the Beaufort-Elmhurst Rd, at the Y junction continue directly on (west) 16k up the Mt Cole Rd (gravel), left (west) 1k on the Mugwamp Track to junction with Dawson Rock Rd and bridge. Privacy Reasonable: By a very low use forestry road VicRoads 57 E6 Hema 39 D9 Other FCV "Mt Cole State Forest" Access Conventional Size 2 Height 920

Suit: Facilities: : Activities Hang-gliding off nearby Mt Buangor

Boundary Parking fence Firewood Available Bookings No: pot luck Site description A small isolated site high on the Mt Cole plateau tucked into the headwaters of the Middle Cr surrounded by dense forest and bush. Features a stone hut and small grassed clearing (fenced) but has limited level parking. Wallabies are common, birds (kookaburras, wrens, etc) plentiful. Warnings Cold and damp in winter Contact DSE Beaufort (03) 5349 2404 CFA District S. West Visit 1998 Ref 623

13. Mt Cole State Forest : The Glut Type State Forest, Camp Ground

Situated near the southern edge of the Forest, west of Ballarat, off the Beaufort-Elmhurst Rd Access from Ballarat: West 44k on the Western Fwy & Hwy [M8 & A8] to Beaufort, right (north) 9k on the Beaufort-Amphitheatre Rd to Raglin, left (north-west) 8.2k on the Beaufort-Elmhurst Rd, keep left (north-west) 3.1k at the Y junction up The Glut Rd (gravel), 1.6k past Richards near the Tunbridges Tk junction. Privacy Reasonable: by a very low use forestry road Site description An attractive grassed clearing (sloping) on a low ridge above Long Gully Creek. Well shaded by Stringybark with a wattle understory. The small, level parking area is adjacent to facilities (new). Wallabies are common, birds (kookaburras, wrens, etc) plentiful. Surrounded by lush tall wet sclerophyll forested slopes and fern gully.

VicRoads 57 F6 Hema 39 D9 Other FCV "Mt Cole State Forest" Access Conventional Size 2+ Height 450

Suit:

Facilities:

Activities Three walking trails. The Glut scenic reserve is just up the road Boundary Parking fence Firewood Available Bookings No: pot luck Contact DSE Beaufort (03) 5349 2404 CFA District S. West Visit 22/11/01 Ref 795

14. Mt Cole State Forest : Richards Type State Forest, Camp Ground

Situated on the southern edge of the Forest, west of Ballarat, off the Beaufort-Elmhurst Rd Access from Ballarat: West 44k on the Western Fwy & Hwy [M8 & A8] to Beaufort, right (north) 9k on the Beaufort-Amphitheatre Rd to Raglin, left (north-west) 8.2k on the Beaufort-Elmhurst Rd, keep left (north-west) 1.5k at the Y junction up The Glut Rd (gravel), just after entering the Forest turn left 0.5k on a good gravel narrow track. Privacy Very good: at track end well off roads


Suit: Facilities:

Activities falls and Dickman cave upstream Boundary Parking fence Firewood Available Bookings No: pot luck Contact DSE Beaufort (03) 5349 2404 CFA District S. West Visit 22/11/01 Ref 621 Site description A very attractive green camp located by the small Hill Creek. The large

grassed level camp site is surrounded and shaded by blackwoods and tree ferns and features a large hut and new facilities, backed by steep hills and Mountain Ash forest. Wallabies are common, birds (kookaburras, wrens, etc) plentiful. The level turning circuit is separated from the camp by the creek - designed for tent camping.

15. Mt Cole State Forest : Ditchfield Type State Forest, Camp Ground

Situated near the southern edge of the Forest, west of Ballarat, off the Mt Cole Rd. Access from Ballarat: West 44k on the Western Fwy & Hwy [M8 & A8] to Beaufort, right (north) 9k on the Beaufort-Amphitheatre Rd to Raglin, left (north-west) 1.5k on the Beaufort-Elmhurst Rd, at the Y junction continue directly on (west) 10k up the Mt Cole Rd (gravel) (to about 1.5k past Ditchfield Picnic Ground), right (north) 1k down the Camp Rd, on the left Privacy Reasonable: Open to a low use forestry road


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Activities

(downstream to falls and cave) Boundary Parking fence Firewood Available Bookings No: pot luck Contact DSE Beaufort (03) 5349 2404 CFA District S. West Visit 22/11/01 Ref 622

Site description A pleasant lushly forested site on a level spur half way up to the Mt Cole plateau by the headwaters of Hill Creek. Well shaded by tall Stringybark and Mountain Ash. Most facilities are new. The parking areas are constrained and limited. Features a large hut and level, grassed clearing. Wallabies are common, birds (kookaburras, wrens, etc) plentiful.

16. Mt Cole State Forest : Smiths Bridge Type State Forest, Picnic Ground

Situated near the southern edge of the Forest, west of Ballarat, off the Beaufort-Elmhurst Rd Access from Ballarat: West 44k on the Western Fwy & Hwy [M8 & A8] to Beaufort, right (north) 9k on the Beaufort-Amphitheatre Rd to Raglin, left (north-west) 9.5k on the Beaufort-Elmhurst Rd (1.3k gravel), on the left 600m after entering the Forest. Privacy Poor: Open to an occasionally used through road Site description A pleasant, large, level grassed site (fenced) shaded by large Manna Gums, backed by forest and facing pine plantations, by First Creek. Wallabies are common, birds (kookaburras, wrens, etc) plentiful.


Suit: Facilities:

Activities Boundary Parking fence Firewood Available Bookings No: pot luck Contact DSE Beaufort (03) 5349 2404

CFA District N. West Visit 22/11/01 Ref 796

17. Mt Cole State Forest : Fortes Type State Forest, Camp Ground

Situated on the eastern edge of the Forest, west of Ballarat, off the Beaufort-Amphitheatre Rd. Access from Ballarat: West 44k on the Western Fwy & Hwy [M8 & A8] to Beaufort, right (north) 14.5k on the Beaufort-Amphitheatre Rd (bypass Raglan, 2k through Chute), left (north-west) 3.3k up the Fortes Rd (gravel), camp on left 1k after entering the Forest, at the F3 Rd junction. Privacy Reasonable: most of the site is open to low use forestry roads

VicRoads 57 G6 Hema 39 D9 Other FCV "Mt Cole State Forest" Access Conventional Size 3+ Height 520

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Boundary Not controlled Firewood Available Bookings No: pot luck Contact DSE Beaufort (03) 5349 2404 CFA District S. West Visit 22/11/01 Ref 620

Site description A pleasant, well grassed clearing (sloping) with scattered exotics (an old house site) shaded by cypress pines. Surrounded by a mature pine forest on the lower slopes of Mt Lonarch. There is limited level parking. Facilities are showing signs of age and limited maintenance. An old mining area. Also known as Beaufort Plantation within the Mt Lonarch State Forest

4.3 Ballarat


1 Lexton Rest Area 3.2

2 Mount Beckworth Manna Gums 3.8

3 Mount Beckworth Cork Oaks 2.8

4 Mount Beckworth The Dam 3.5

5 Creswick Regional Park Slaty Creek No 1 3.9



8 Bungaree Weigbridge Rest Area 1.9

9 Smythesdale Gardens 2.5

10 Scarsdale Woady Yaloak Rv 4.1

11 Scarsdale Rest Area 3.2

12 Devils Kitchen 2.3

13 Pitfield Streamside Reserve J.C. Stretch Memorial Park 2.9

14 Enfield State Park Surface Point 3.9

15 Blue Bridge Rest Area 3.2

16 Lal Lal Iron Furnace 4.3

17 Lal Lal Lal Lal Falls 2.4

18 Brisbane Ranges NP Boar Gully 4.2

1 Lexton :- Rest Area Type Road Rest Area, Roadside

On the Sunraysia Hwy [B220] 4k south east of Lexton, 47k north west of Ballarat. Signposted Privacy Reasonable: vegetation inhibits observation from nearby highway

VicRoads 58 A6 Hema 39 D9 Access Sealed Road Size 4+ Height 380

Suit: Facilities: Boundary Not controlled Firewood Available Bookings No: pot luck CFA District S. West Visit 15/03/03 Ref 176

Site description A reasonable rest area developed from a long strip of the old road, shaded by Manna Gum and Peppermint. Most of the extended roadway slopes but there are a couple of level spots near the bench. Surrounded by bush and rolling farmland.

2 Mount Beckworth :- Manna Gums Type State Park, Camp Ground Situated 30k north west of Ballarat, 8k south west of Clunes.

VicRoads 58 D7 Hema 39 D10 Other Pamphlet Access Dry weather only Size 3+ Height 410

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Activities Walk to Mt Beckworth Boundary Not controlled Firewood Available Bookings No: pot luck Contact ParksVic Creswick (03) 5345 1352 CFA District Central Visit 14/03/03 Ref 1005

Access from Clunes [C291]: west 900m on the Maryborough Rd [C291], left (south) 4k on the Learmonth Rd (starts as West St), right (west) 2k on Glendaruel Rd to its end, right (north) 1k on Kierces (Fenton) Rd (gravel), left 1.3k on Mountain Creek Rd (2 tonne bridge limit, dry weather ford) to the Reserve. Left (south) 1.3k, on the right. Privacy Reasonable: just off a low-use tourist road Site description Situated on the slopes of Mt Beckworth (634m) in open forest. The small site features a short circuit road, 2 tables, 1 BBQ and a large Manna Gum. Best in spring. Can be hot and dry in summer. Rabbits common.

3 Mount Beckworth :- Cork Oaks Type State Park, Camp Ground Situated 30k north west of Ballarat, 8k south west of Clunes. Access from Clunes [C291]: west 900m on the Maryborough Rd [C291], left (south) 4k on the Learmonth Rd (starts as West St), right (west) 2k on Glendaruel Rd to its end, right (north) 1k on Kierces (Fenton) Rd (gravel), left 1.3k on Mountain Creek Rd (2 tonne bridge limit, dry weather ford) to the Reserve. Right (north) 3k (narrow, some washouts), keep left (no sign) just after Bracken Gully picnic ground Privacy Reasonable, track end well off main roads

VicRoads 58 D7 Hema 39 D10 Access Dry weather Size 2 + Height 550

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Activities Walk to Mt Beckworth Boundary Not controlled Firewood Available Bookings No: pot luck Contact ParksVic Creswick (03) 5345 1352 CFA District Central Visit 14/03/03 Ref 1014

Site description An open site situated on the steep slopes of Mt Beckworth (634m) surrounded by open forest. Features a road circuit with 1 table & BBQ but without shade, near a couple of rows of cork trees. Site slopes steeply. There is a small level area, partially shaded by wattle by the nearby creek bed. Best in spring. Rabbits common.

4 Mount Beckworth :- The Dam Type State Park, Camp Ground Situated 30k north west of Ballarat, 8k south west of Clunes. Access from Clunes [C291]: west 900m on the Maryborough Rd [C291], left (south) 4k on the Learmonth Rd (starts as West St), right (west) 2k on Glendaruel Rd to its end, right (north) 1k on Kierces (Fenton) Rd (gravel), left 1.3k on Mountain Creek Rd (2 tonne bridge limit, dry weather ford) to the Reserve. Half right (north) 0.4k Privacy Poor: roadside Site description An interesting site situated on the slopes of Mt Beckworth (634m) in open forest. Features 3 dispersed sites, 2 with 1 table & BBQ but without shade on the edge of the shallow dam (dry in March 2003), one with 5 tables, 1 BBQ and level shaded grass behind a fence - suites tent camping Best in spring. Rabbits common.

VicRoads 58 D7 Hema 39 D10 Access Dry weather only Size 3+ Height 550

Suit: Facilities:

Activities Walk to Mt Beckworth

Boundary Parking fence Firewood Available Bookings No: pot luck Contact ParksVic Creswick (03) 5345 1352 CFA District Central Visit 14/03/03 Ref 1013

5 Creswick Regional Park :- Slaty Creek No 1 Type State Park, Camp Ground

Situated between Ballarat and Creswick. Access from Ballarat [M8]: North 14k on the Midland Hwy [A300] nearly to Creswick, thence sharp right south-east along the Bungaree (Melbourne) Rd [C291] 1.8k, right south 4k on Slaty Creek Rd (gravel, narrow sections). (Slaty Cr Rd swings left just within view of the Camp Ground) Privacy Reasonable: off main roads but expect day trippers

VicRoads 58 G9 Hema 39 E11 Other Victoria's Great Outdoors, pg 52 Access Conventional Size 4+ Height 440

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Activities Boundary Not controlled Firewood Available Bookings No: pot luck Contact Parks Vic (03) 5345 1352 CFA District N. West Visit 17/03/03 Ref 295

Site description Creek side camping in open forest and gold mining area. The vehicle camping area (1 bench 2 BBQs, 1 broken) is on both sides of the road just across the creek (intermittent) from the day area (WC, shelter, 3 benches 2 BBQs (1 broken)). Reasonable shade from white trunked Manna Gums, Peppermints and willows over level gravely flood banks, surrounded by low rolling forested hills. Prolific bird life including kookaburras, magpies, rosellas and fantails. Short term camping only. Prefer you bring firewood and drinking water. Best in spring. Hot, dry and dusty in summer.


Situated between Ballarat and Creswick. Access from Ballarat [M8]: North 14k on the Midland Hwy [A300] nearly to Creswick, thence sharp right south-east along the Bungaree (Melbourne) Rd [C291] 1.8k, right south 4.3k on the Slaty Creek Rd (gravel, narrow sections). 300m past the turn-off to Slaty Creek No 1 cross a cement ford and turn right 150m on an unsigned gravel road Privacy Good: track end, glimpse from overlooking low use tourist road.

VicRoads 58 G9 Hema 39 E11 Access Conventional Size 4+ Height 440

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Boundary Not controlled Firewood Available Bookings No: pot luck Contact Parks Vic (03) 5345 1352 CFA District N. West Visit 17/03/03 Ref 512

Site description Level creek side camping in a narrow gully situated in open forest and gold mining area. Reasonable shade from white trunked Manna Gums and Peppermints over level gravely flood banks extending up Mopoke Creek, surrounded by low rolling forested hills. More secluded than Slaty Cr No.1. Features 1 bench and 2 BBQs (1 broken) Prolific bird life including kookaburras and fantails. Short term camping only. Prefer you bring firewood and drinking water. Creek is dry in summer. Best in spring. Hot, dry and dusty in summer.


Situated between Ballarat and Creswick. Access from Ballarat [M8]: North 14k on the Midland Hwy [A300] nearly to Creswick, thence sharp right south-east along the Bungaree (Melbourne) Rd [C291] 1.8k, right south 5k on the Slaty Creek Rd (gravel, narrow sections). Left 0.4k to another cement ford and the camp. Privacy Good: observable from a very low use tourist road

VicRoads 58 G9 Hema 39 E11 Access Conventional Size 3+ Height 450

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Boundary Not controlled Firewood Available Bookings No: pot luck Contact ParksVic, Creswick (03) 5345 1352 CFA District N. West Visit 17/03/03 Ref 862

Site description Creek side camping in a gully situated in open forest and historic gold mining area. Reasonable shade from white trunked Manna Gums and Peppermints over level gravely flood banks, partially grassed, surrounded by low rolling forested hills. Features 2 benches and 2 BBQs (both broken). Short term camping only. Prefer you bring firewood and drinking water. Creek is dry in summer. Prolific bird life including kookaburras and fantails. Best in spring. Hot, dry and dusty in summer.

8 Bungaree Weigbridge

Type Road Rest Area, Roadside Situated on the southern side of the Western Freeway [M8] 15k east of Ballarat. Signposted. Only accessible to traffic travelling from Melbourne to Ballarat. Privacy Poor: within site and sound of the busy freeway and railway

VicRoads 77 B2 Hema 39 E11 Access Sealed Road Size 6

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Boundary Not controlled Firewood No Bookings No: pot luck CFA District Central Visit 1/12/03 Ref 86

Site description A level, sealed loop road with no shade or shrubs - very open. Well grassed (mown). Overlooks open paddocks and distant Bungaree. A poor rest area, but the only one between Melbourne and Ballarat.

9 Smysthesdale Gardens

Type Reserve, Picnic Ground Situated on the northern side of Smysthesdale (19k south west of Ballarat on the Glenelg Hwy [B160]), west 300m on Gardens Rd Privacy Poor: overlooked by road and a couple of houses

VicRoads 76 C4, 260 H9 Hema 39 E10 Access Sealed Road Size 8+ Height 180

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Boundary Not controlled Firewood No Bookings No: pot luck Site description A sloping, grassed (mown) reserve surrounded by mature pines. Showers locked. One BBQ (broken). CFA District Central Visit 2/12/03 Ref 1

10 Scarsdale: Woady Yaloak Rv

Type Reserve, Picnic Ground Situated west of Scarsdale by the Woady Yaloak Rv (Smythey Cr) Access: From Ballarat 24k south west on the Glenelg Hwy to the Lismore Rd [C171] junction, right (west) 600m on the Old Glenelg Hwy, on the right just before the bridge. Privacy Reasonable: some sites secluded from the country road by vegetation.

Site description Pleasant, level creek flats well shaded by rows of mature pines. By the small Woady Yaloak Rv (Smythey Cr) with a small pool maintained by an old ford to provide a local swimming hole. Backed by farm land and pine plantations. 4 benches, 5 BBQs. A little overgrown and neglected. The Old Glenelg Hwy continues south 800m to rejoin the Glenelg Hwy at the Rest Area.

VicRoads 76 C4 Hema 39 E10 Access Sealed Road Size 4+ Height 15

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Activities: Boundary Not controlled Firewood Limited Bookings No: pot luck CFA District Central Visit 2/12/03 Ref 222

11 Scarsdale Rest Area

Type Road Rest Area, Roadside Just off the Glenelg Hwy [B160] 25k sou-west of Ballarat (near the 135km post) Privacy Reasonable: well off the highway secluded by some bush, open to the Old Glenelg Hwy

VicRoads 76 C4 Hema 39 E10 Access Sealed Road Size 4+ Height 172

Suit

Facilities: Boundary Not controlled Firewood Available Bookings No: pot luck CFA District Central Visit 2/12/03 Ref 172

Site description A large level area surrounded by scrub situated in a shallow valley (creek usually dry) . Some sites shaded by Peppermint and Messmate. A little overgrown and neglected, but reasonable for a rest area. The Old Glenelg Hwy runs north 800m to the old bridge.

12 Devils Kitchen - Geological Reserve

Type Reserve, informal bush camp

Situated south-west of Ballarat. Access from Ballarat [A8]: South-west 22k on the Glenelg [B160] Hwy to Scarsdale, left (south) 6k on the Lismore Rd [C171], right (west) 2.9k on the Piggoreet-Linton Rd. Left 400m on the Devils Kitchen Lane OR continue on down 200m to the river. VicRoads 76 B5 Hema 39 F10 Access Sealed Size 4+ Privacy: Poor - very open

Suit: Facilities:

Boundary Not controlled Firewood Limited Bookings No: pot luck Site description Two reserves in the Woadly Yallock River (small) gorge surrounded by volcanic cliffs. The site at the end of the lane is secluded from traffic but rough with only a couple of level spots. The reserve by the road is grassed (rarely slashed). Both are open with no shade. The river may be dry. Poor bush camping, except for geologists.

(There may be a picnic ground by the Woady Yallock River off Ryans Rd 5k south &/or in the Mt Erip State Forest to the south west) CFA District Central Visit 2/12/03 Ref 639

13 Pitfield Streamside Reserve :- J.C. Stretch Memorial Park Type Reserve, Picnic Ground

Situated south-west of Ballarat by the Rokewood-Skipton Rd [C143] at the Woadly Yalloak River bridge Privacy Poor: overlooked by road VicRoads 76 B6 Hema 39 F10 Access Sealed Road Size 3+ Height 300

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Boundary Not controlled Firewood Limited Bookings No: pot luck CFA District S. West Visit 19/03/03 Ref 872

Site description A pleasant oasis in the flat lava-plain country. Located in a shallow ravine is a well grassed (mown) creek side flat with some shade from Candlebark and Manna Gum. Three benches, a shelter with fireplace. Woadly Yalloak River is a reliable water source but quality is suspect. Some rubbish.

14 Enfield State Park :- Surface Point Type State Park, Camp Ground Situated south of Ballarat. Access from Ballarat: South 29k on the Ballarat-Colac Rd [C146] past Enfield, right (west) 3.5k on Misery Creek Rd (gravel). Short access road signed on the right. Alternatively 4k east on the Berringa-Misery Creek Rd (gravel) off the Newtown-Berringa Rd.

Privacy Good: well off main roads, secluded from Misery Creek Rd by terrain VicRoads 76 E6 Hema 39 F10 Access Conventional Size 3+ Height 310

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Activities: Boundary Parking fence Firewood Available Bookings No, pot luck

Site description A small, level, gravel, fenced car park on the nose of a ridge just above the picnic facilities and the Misery Creek (often dry). The picnic ground (5 tables, 2 BBQs) slopes. Thin shade provided by Messmate, Broad-leaved and Narrow-leaved Peppermint, Manna Gum and rare Yarra Gum with some Silver wattle understory. Surrounded by rolling forested hills. Spring wildflowers including grevillea and 31 varieties of orchids. Kookaburras, currawong, rosella, wrens, kangaroos, wallaby and frogs are common with koala present. A pleasant, quiet camp. Remains of gold mining, including shafts, water races and sluiced areas.

Warnings Bring water. Can be cold in winter, hot in summer. Keep to tracks - beware of mine shafts. Contact Parks Vic CFA District Central Visit 1/12/03 Ref 760

15 Blue Bridge: Rest Area

Type Road Rest Area, Roadside On the Midland Hwy [A300] 64k nor-west of Geelong, 33k sou-east of Ballarat. Privacy Reasonable: 50m off the busy highway, some sites secluded by trees.

VicRoads 76 H5 Hema 39 F11 Access Sealed Road Size 4+ Height 430

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Boundary Not controlled Firewood Limited Bookings No, pot luck CFA District Central Visit 3/12/03 Ref 175

Site description An extended length of old highway, sealed and reasonably level. Shade from Messmate, Peppermint and wattles.

16 Lal Lal:- Iron Furnace

Type Crown Reserve, Picnic Ground Situated south-east of Ballarat, north-west of Geelong: Access from Ballarat: South-east 22k on the Midland Hwy [A300] to Clarendon (65k north-west of Geelong), left (north-east) 4k on the Lal Lal Rd, continue over the railway line 0.8k on the Lal Lal-Harris Rd, right (east) 4.7k on Ironmine Rd to its end. (The last 2k is gravel, the last 1k steep with switchbacks. Keep left at track junctions on entering and leaving).

Privacy Good: road end in remote forest, expect day trippers VicRoads 77 B4 Hema 39 E11 Access Conventional Size 5+ Height 450

Suit: Facilities:

Boundary Parking fence Firewood Available Bookings No, CFA District Central Visit 3/12/03 Ref 535

Activities: Short, graded tracks (with explanation boards) to historic pig iron furnace ruin, iron mines and outlook over Bengal Dam and Moorabool Rv valley. Site description A level, gravel, fenced car park in the centre of a 75 acre Special Purpose Reserve. Thin shade from Peppermint and Messmate. 4 benches, 3 BBQs. Surrounded by steep forested slopes. Springtime displays pink and white heaths, orchids and other wildflowers. A pleasant, quiet camp.

17 Lal Lal Falls

Type Local Government Reserve, Picnic Ground

Situated south-east of Ballarat, north-west of Geelong: Access from Ballarat: South-east 22k on the Midland Hwy [A300] to Clarendon (65k north-west of Geelong), left (north-east) 4k on the Lal Lal Rd, continue over the railway line 3.1k on the Lal Lal-Harris and Falls Rd (stay on the bitumen), signed on the left

Privacy Poor: adjacent and exposed to low use country road. VicRoads 77 B4 Hema 39 E11 Access Sealed Road Size 3+

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Boundary Parking fence Firewood Limited Bookings No, pot luck CFA District Central Visit 4/12/03 Ref 560 Site description A level, gravelled, fenced car park just off the road and adjacent to a large reserve, surrounded by open rolling farmland. No shade to the car park. The reserve is well grassed (roughly slashed) and surrounded by mature pines. 5 tables and BBQs (burnt through). The picturesque Lal Lal falls, 200m across the reserve, are best after heavy rain.

18 Brisbane Ranges NP :- Boar Gully Type National Park, Camp Ground

Situated high on the Brisbane Ranges, south-east of Bacchus Marsh, south of Ballan. Access from Ballan [M8]: South 8k on the Geelong-Ballan Rd [C141], left (east) 5.5k on the Brisbane Ranges Rd. Just after the gravel starts and just inside the Park boundary (before the Thompsons Rd junction) turn south down a signposted, narrow, gravelled, potholed track along the ridge line for 0.5k to its end. Privacy Good: well off a low use country road surrounded by bush.

VicRoads 77 F6 Hema 36 D2 Access Conventional Size 5+2 Height 430

Suit: Facilities:

Boundary Parking fence Firewood NO-BYO Fees $9.20 pn Bookings Required Site description Dispersed designated parking areas along the road end, located in a saucer valley near the NW edge of the Brisbane National Park. Site layout suites car/tent camping rather than motorhomes. Parking layout inhibits long

rigs. Light shade through a thin canopy is provided to all sites, most of which have a pleasant outlook over an old dam. The surrounding low, forested ridges provide some wind protection. A pleasant, quiet camp but potentially hot and dry in summer and cold in winter. Surrounding vegetation is typical of goldfields/quartz soil: stunted Grey Box, Peppermint and Red Ironbark, with minimal ground vegetation except grass trees, although

spring reveals the vast range of flora in the area. Kangaroos and wallabies are common, koalas may be present. There is a wide range of birds. Yabbies are in the adjacent dam.

Activities Walking trails (2.5hr to Little River Picnic Ground), Yabbie fishing, bird watching, wildflowers Warnings 2 sites (1&2) lack fire places. Contact Parks Vic CFA District Central Visit 21/05/00 Ref 260

vol 4 gold fields

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