Camping in Victorian High Country in January

There is probably no better place I have seen anywhere in this country than South or north of Talbotville camp area, about 40 min west out of Dargo.

But Note - not at Talbotville itself which is quite busy.

There are some things though that you need to consider.

What I refer to is about 30km of river frontage dotted with camp areas, many of which are small.

Most are filled by 2:30pm boxing day. Its 5 driving hours from Melbourne.

If late , you will have no trouble getting a spot but not the small ones amongst others , and the population increases alarmingly over the next 3 days.

About 20% leave New years eve and on New years day there is a mass exodus.

Warning - travel north and south of Talbotville requires crossing the Crooked river , its usually about 1/2 meter deep on boxing day , but about 1 in 3 years can reach 1 meter.

I think there is no prettier place than Fry's Flat, Sheepyard Flat or a bit further on some of the others Flats like Pickerings & Ritchies very pretty right on the Howqua river. Have been going up there on & off for 20+ years. The area is patrolled frequently by Parks & any hoons around soon get shifted. It can get busy (Like most places as Robin states in his reply) but you can get into a little area buy yourselves it's very pretty,good swimming holes & a bit of white water fun over the rapids in some spots. All the flat areas I have mentioned are great areas for base camping with trips to the Bluff, Craig's Hut, Mount Buller & numerous other spots. You can also try your luck at trout fishing in the Howqua. The area is about a 3 hour drive from melbourne to mansfield, follow the Highway (Mount Buller Road) to Merrijig....stop at the Merrijig Pub or it's correct name The Hunt Club ....there is a lot of history posted there in pictures & memorabillia.....head off towards Mount Buller & turn right onto the Howqua Track.....follow that for about 17km & you'll arrive at Sheepyard Flat....if you don't wish to camp there, follow the sign to Fry's Flat. Parks have done a good job in restoring the Hut & posting information boards...No camping in the Hut.

Thanks for the replies ... food for thought for us ...