Lerderderg Dispersed camping

[Rosseth]

Hi all. I've been eager to hit Lerderderg soon, however I am weary of having to share campsites with 4WDers. Does anyone know if there is opportunity for safe dispersed camping in the area? I'm not after any secrets to be spilled or anything, just an general gist. Specifically I'm looking at Byers Back Track (between Blackwood and O'briens crossing, relatively flat terrain for dragging along a kid or two) where there may be opportunity for a safe and out of the way spot that's relatively open (no falling branches) where I can enjoy a bit of peace and quiet.

I had considered Amblers Lane Camp Ground going off the (meridian) map (now a free site, which is a bonus), but then my research showed it's accessible by 4WD, and I'd prefer to avoid camping around vehicles (doesn't do it for me).

TIA

[bernieq]

There is not much opportunity to camp along Byres Back Track (ie none that I can recall) and most of the river campsites (ie flat areas) are further down than O'Briens Crossing (below Nolans Tk).

However, after the Anzac weekend, it's unlikely that any 4WDers will be at O'Briens (and even less likely at Amblers Tk).

BTW, I would think that there is not a lot of water in the Lerderderg at the moment - strongly recommend carrying what you need or filtering/treating any puddles you might find.

[Rosseth]

Thanks for the info bernieq. I've got a water filter so all good there. Taking the East Track from O'Briens Crossing in search for some nice sites will be on the to do list then, however I might leave the kids at home for that one! I assume one can park at O'Briens Crossing without being required to camp there?

[bernieq]

I assume one can park at O'Briens Crossing without being required to camp there?

Yes, of course - google "O'Briens Crossing" and you'll find photos showing the area - plenty of parking.

[Thewaz]

AVOID OBRIENS, over camped and generally full of bogans.
There are a few good spots in the gorge if you are willing to hike in. Park at Lows lane on MT Blackwood and hike down Bears Head or Aw Kow Track, good camp spots at the bottom of both tracks on the river and you could also go for a hike up Big River and have a look at the water fall (Probably dry) but a cool little walk.
If you do want to poark at OBriens trek into the Mine Camp at the Kenworthy track, another good spot.
Below is a link to a couple of old blogs I wrote about the Lerdy. They will give you a better idea on time and distances to these sites if you like.
The Mine camp would be fine for the kids, not sure about the others, bit steep to walk in.
Have fun.
http://thewaz19.blogspot.com.au/2010/05 ... -trek.html
http://thewaz19.blogspot.com.au/2011/08 ... rge-2.html

[OllieVic]

Hi there,

Obriens is ok to just to park at. I've walked from there taking the Shortcut Track onto the road and then down Cowans Tk to the river I think LER 520. Apart from the Shortcut track quite easy 2hr each way. Do be careful of water though I went few months back and a lot of the river way dry. Should be ok with a filter I've always managed to get water at LER520. You can come back via the river(takes extra hour) but if you have kids might be easier same way you went in.

Hope that helps.

Ollie