The best camping near Little Desert National Park

Despite its name, Little Desert National Park isn’t all desert, although it does contain some arid areas and dunes. The national park in western Victoria includes heathlands covered in wildflowers, stands of gum trees, rivers, and birds, including the endangered ground-dwelling malleefowl. Campers can pitch a tent or park their vehicle at a variety of campsites, most of which have toilets, fire places, and tables. As well as at the designated campsites, campers may free-camp in the central and western areas of the desert sections of the park so long as Leave No Trace principles are followed.

• Best for larger groups: Horseshoe Bend Camping Area has 30 unpowered sites.
• Best for birdwatching: Ackle Bend Camping Area is located where the river meets the desert.
• Best for hikers: Mallee Walkers Camp is on the Little Desert Discovery Walk.

1. Reservations and prepayment are required year-round at the two most popular campsites in the national park: Ackle Bend Camping Area and Horseshoe Bend Camping Area.
2. At these campsites, each individual site is for a maximum of six occupants. If your group contains more than this, you’ll need to book extra sites.
3. Spring is the busiest time to visit this park, so if you want to camp at the first-come, first-served campsites, aim to arrive there earlier in the day to avoid missing out.

The period between late winter (August) and early summer (December) is the best time to visit this national park, as the wildflowers bloom and the climate is most comfortable for camping and hiking. Summers (December-February) are hot and there’s the extra risk of fire. Winters can be cold and frosty overnight, although camping facilities are available year-round.

• All campers in Little Desert National Park should bring their own water as this is not provided at any of the campsites. Some non-drinking water may be available at some campsites.
• Bushfires can occur in this area in the warmer months. When there is a total fire ban in place, don’t use an open fire when camping. Gas cookers are permitted for preparing food, however.
• Many of the campsites within this national park are only accessible by four-wheel drive, so plan accordingly if you are travelling with a caravan or campervan.