Bell tents near Wangaratta
Camp beside rivers, within the bush, and up a mountain near this inland Victorian city.
Popular camping styles for Wangaratta
Bell tents near Wangaratta guide
Overview
The small rural city of Wangaratta is located in northeastern Victoria, about 250 kilometres northeast of Melbourne and quite close to the border with New South Wales. Bounded by many rivers and channels that flow from the mighty Murray River, and near wetlands, forests, and granite hills, there are plenty of outdoor adventures to be had around Wangaratta. Campers can stay at well-equipped holiday parks throughout the town, as well as simpler campsites at the nearby Warby-Ovens National Park, where there are several bush camping choices.
Where to go
Warby-Ovens National Park
A short distance west of Wangaratta, the Warby-Ovens National Park is a popular spot for walking, cycling, canoeing, and wildlife-watching. It’s home to several ecosystems and contains important bushland, being located in a unique area between the Murray River and the Victorian Alps. There are many campsites to choose from, all unpowered and requiring self-sufficiency but free of charge. You can also visit the Gravel Point-Warby Ovens section of the park, which is north of Wangaratta and also has a couple of campsites.
Mount Buffalo National Park
About 1.5 hours’ drive southeast of Wangaratta, Mount Buffalo National Park is famous for the rock climbing that can be done in its granite peaks, as well as for its waterfalls and winter skiing. Campers can stay at the large Lake Catani Campground, which is suitable for tents, small caravans, and camper vans. While you need to be self-sufficient to stay here, the campsite provides amenities including flush toilets and hot showers.
Alpine National Park
Further southeast from Mount Buffalo, about 2.5 hours’ drive from Wangaratta, is the spectacular Alpine National Park. The rugged area of alpine and subalpine terrain and ecosystems offers great hiking in Victoria’s highest mountains, as well as mountain biking and horseback riding. Campers can find a number of dedicated campsites with facilities throughout the park, and dispersed bush camping—or free camping—is allowed in many places.
When to go
Music lovers might want to visit Wangaratta in November, when the city and surrounding wineries host the Wangaratta Festival of Jazz and Blues. This is also a good month for camping and outdoor activities, as it is spring and before the heat of summer arrives, and nearby waterfalls are usually at their best after the winter rains.
