Halls Gap is one of the best places to start your Grampians adventure (Image Visit Victoria)
Explore the Grampians and support local recovery after the 2024–2025 bushfires. Parks, towns and attractions are open — every visit helps communities bounce back.
The visitor economy in the Grampians (Gariwerd) National Park and its main tourist towns took a real hit with the summer bushfires over the Christmas/New Year period in 2024–2025. But, just as the bush is starting to regenerate, the accommodation providers, adventure operators, wineries, cafes and others are up and running and welcoming visitors to help the region recover.
For decades, caravanners, campers and adventurers have flocked to the Grampians over the summer holidays.
For the region, this is usually the busiest and most lucrative time of the year. But the past summer of 2024–2025 saw bushfires burning out of control in the Grampians (Gariwerd) National Park for weeks, closing parts of the park and forcing the evacuation of key tourist towns.
Grampians Wine Tours in Halls Gap (Image Visit Victoria)
Marc Sleeman, the CEO of Grampians Wimmera Mallee Tourism, told Caravan World that summer visitor numbers were down 600–700 per cent across key towns such as Halls Gap, Dunkeld, Pomonal and Wartook, translating to a multi-million-dollar hit to local economies.
Accommodation providers, cafes, cellar doors, attractions and tour operators all felt the immediate impact, with fewer bookings, cancelled trips and reduced spending across the board.
The 2024–2025 bushfires
The Grampians (Gariwerd) National Park bushfire started on 17 December 2024, as a result of lightning strikes. The fire spread north, growing to 28,000 hectares and forcing the closure of the national park and the evacuation of several towns including Halls Gap.
The fire burned over Christmas/New Year and was eventually contained after 21 days, with 76,000 hectares of national park and agricultural land burned. Due to the efforts of fire crews, infrastructure damages were limited to four houses and about 40 outbuildings. Other losses included stock and fencing. By 8 January, Halls Gap businesses were able to reopen, followed several days later by unaffected parts of the national park.
By the end of January, local communities were on high alert again when 10,000 dry lightning strikes started fires across the state, including the Grampians and Little Desert national parks.
The Little Desert fire spread quickly within the first couple of days and ended up burning more than 95,000 hectares. The Grampians fires merged with the original Yarram Gap Road fire from 17 December 2024 due to ongoing fire activity and back burning. Both fires were contained on 10 February after nearly two weeks.
Stunning views over Grampians (Gariwerd) National Park at Boroka Lookout
Back up and running
Now more than six months later, Marc Sleeman said nearly all businesses in the region are back up and running.
“From boutique stays to cafes, wineries and adventure operators, local owners have worked tirelessly to reopen their doors,” he said. “A small handful of businesses, particularly in areas closest to fire-affected tracks or dependent on specific park infrastructure still under repair, are taking longer to resume normal operations. Overall, the region is well and truly open and ready to welcome visitors.”
And visitors are starting to return. The Easter long weekend brought near-capacity bookings for many operators and the Grampians Grape Escape wine festival in Halls Gap in May was a standout success, drawing thousands of visitors.
Enjoy stunning views of rolling hills and rocky outcrops in the Grampians
“This not only generated significant economic activity but also sent a powerful message of confidence in the region. It’s a testament to the resilience of local businesses and the enduring appeal of the Grampians,” he said.
Support from local, state and federal governments has been critical in helping the region recover. Almost $800,000 in dedicated marketing and promotional investment is helping drive tourism recovery, including:
- $400,000 through Visit Victoria campaign activity
- $130,000 in metropolitan outdoor advertising
- $200,000 invested by Grampians Wimmera Mallee Tourism (GWMT)
- An additional $50,000 through the Visit Victoria Industry Partnership Program (VVIPP).
“Beyond marketing, there has been vital investment in repairing walking tracks, visitor lookouts, signage and other infrastructure, along with targeted grants to support impacted businesses,” Sleeman said. “Local councils have also played a leading role in coordinating community recovery efforts.”
Support the region
For those keen to support the region in its recovery, spring is a stunning time to visit with waterfalls flowing, wildflowers in bloom and native wildlife everywhere.
“Families love exploring the Halls Gap Zoo, while thrill-seekers can tackle rock climbing or abseiling with Absolute Outdoors. For a taste of history (and fine wine), the underground cellar tours at Seppelt Wines in Great Western are unmissable. Add cosy cafes, boutique shopping and lakeside picnics, and there’s something for everyone — every visit helps keep our local communities strong,” Sleeman said.
The recently launched ‘YOU’ campaign encourages locals to invite their friends and family to visit, reminding people that sometimes the simplest invitation can have the biggest impact.
Beehive Falls in Grampians (Gariwerd) National Park are a popular spot
What’s on in the Grampians
The Grampians region has a jam-packed calendar of festivals and events that reflect local flavours, community spirit, artistic flair and a love for the great outdoors. Here are some must-visit annual events:
Dunkeld Writers Festival
29–31 August 2025 | Dunkeld
Set at the foot of Mount Sturgeon (Wurgarri), this literary event celebrates the people and places of the Grampians region with author talks, storytelling and excellent food and wine.
Nati Frinj Biennale
31 October – 2 November 2025 | Natimuk
Transforming the tiny town of Natimuk into a vibrant arts hub, this bold festival offers immersive performances, installations and workshops. Expect community spirit, creative surprises, and a celebration of place and innovation.
Lake Charlegrark Country Music Marathon
20–22 February 2026 | Near Edenhope
Held lakeside near the SA border, this relaxed weekend draws country music fans from far and wide. Think grassroots charm, market stalls and caravan-friendly lakeside camping.
Grampians Grape Escape
1–3 May 2026 | Halls Gap
Victoria’s longest-running food and wine festival brings together more than 120 local producers and wineries, live music and hands-on masterclasses — all set against the rugged beauty of the Grampians (Gariwerd) National Park.
Run the Gap
24 May 2026 | Halls Gap
With a 6km walk/run, a 12km circuit past Lake Bellfield and a 21km trail challenge, this community-run event takes in spectacular natural scenery while raising funds for local trail projects.
Paper Scissors Rock Brew Co in Halls Gap (Image Visit Victoria)
Red Series
2026 dates TBC | Ballarat
A winter wine showcase featuring more than 100 reds from top wineries across the Grampians, Pyrenees and beyond. Sip, sample and stock up in Ballarat’s historic Mining Exchange.
Wimmera Steampunk Festival
Biennial — next event in 2027 | Dimboola
Celebrate the weird and wonderful at this quirky festival that brings Victorian-era fashion together with a healthy dash of imagination. Costumes encouraged!
Also on the calendar:
- Glow – Bringing light to Halls Gap: Until 31 Aug 2025
- Three Peaks Festival, Dunkeld: 18 Oct 2025
- Grampians Peaks Trail 100: 6–9 Nov 2025
- Nhill Heritage Weekend, Nhill: 25–26 Oct 2025
- Shakespeare Under the Stars, Horsham: 31 Oct–2 Nov 2025
- A Rockfest Family Christmas, Hamilton: 13 Dec 2025
Grampians Wimmera Mallee Touring Map
Go beyond Grampians (Gariwerd) National Park
Horsham
Discover lakes, landscapes and local flavour in one of Victoria’s most welcoming rural cities. Set on the banks of the Wimmera River, Horsham is a vibrant city that blends natural beauty with arts, culture and outdoor fun. It’s the ideal launch pad for exploring the Silo Art Trail, Grampians (Gariwerd) National Park and the rich plains of western Victoria.
The Horsham Botanic Gardens, designed by William Guilfoyle (curator of the Royal Botanic Gardens in Melbourne from 1873 to 1909) are perfect for a lazy stroll. The gardens feature barbecue facilities and picnic tables, and there is plenty of shade. Guilfoyle also either designed or remodelled several other botanic gardens in Victoria, including Hamilton Botanic Gardens. The Horsham Town Hall and Regional Art Gallery are both within walking distance and host exhibitions, shows and events year-round.
The Horsham region’s lakes and reservoirs are a dream for fishos, kayakers and campers. Try Taylors Lake, Lake Toolondo, Dock Lake or Lake Wartook for trout, redfin and yabby fishing. Meanwhile, Police Paddock offers all-abilities access and bird hides, and Green Lake is great for family-friendly water sports.
While at Lake Toolondo, be sure not to miss Toolondo Reservoir View, one of four large frames that are part of the ‘Framing the Wimmera’ project created by local artist Dr Greg Pritchard, which capture views of iconic Wimmera landscapes.
Don’t miss the unique ‘Framing the Wimmera’ project
Whether you’re cruising the back roads, chasing fish or catching a show, Horsham offers the ‘real deal’ Wimmera experience in one laid-back, creative package.
Where to stay:
Silo Art
Explore Australia’s largest outdoor gallery across 700km in Victoria’s Grampians Wimmera Mallee region, where powerful local stories are told through large-scale murals. Start your journey in Horsham, home to Smug’s (aka Sam Bates) mural of Yanggendyinanyuk, a Wotjobaluk tracker and cricketer. Visit Goroke to see birds of the Wimmera painted by Geoffrey Carran, and head to Kaniva where the design features the Australian Hobby and orchids, by David Lee Pereira and Jason Parker. While in Kaniva, take a stroll down the delightful Sheep Art Trail which connects the Silo Art to the Wetlands and Fauna Park. It’s a light-hearted and creative way to explore this welcoming Wimmera town.
At Arkona, 10km north of Dimboola, another splendid silo art by Smug pays homage to Roley Klinge, while in Murtoa, Smug’s 2023 silo art of Australian birds highlights mental health awareness. At Nullawil, Smug’s kelpie mural is a local favourite. Don’t miss the portraits by Rone in Lascelles, Kyle Torney’s gold rush tribute in St Arnaud and Rupanyup for a fresh 2025 update by Smug.
Rosebery Silo Art
In Patchewollock, Fintan Magee honours farmer Nick ‘Noodle’ Hulland. Guido van Helten’s artwork on the Brim silo is a lifelike homage to four anonymous multigenerational farmers. The Rosebery mural showcases rural life and community pioneers, while Sea Lake’s silo art, painted by Joel Fergie (aka The Zookeeper) and Travis Vinson (aka Drapl) pays homage to Boorong astronomy and Lake Tyrrell. Woomelang features mini silos, painted by top street artists and highlighting endangered wildlife. Walpeup’s striking mural by Julian Clavijo and Camilo Delgado tells the story of WWI soldier Harold Bell, while at Albacutya, Kitt Bennett’s playful mural captures the colourful nostalgia of growing up in the bush.
Brim Silo Art
Stay in silo town hubs such as Horsham, Sea Lake or Kaniva, and be sure to allow time to explore the region’s natural beauty, history and bakeries along the way.
Interested in reading more about Silo Art? You can purchase the The Ultimate Silo Art Guide or Victorian Silo & Water Tower Art Guide by the Australian Silo Art Trail (Annette and Eric Green) on the Hema Maps store. For local advice about the silo art, call into the Horsham Visitor Information Centre, located in the Horsham Town Hall.
Harrow
Nestled among rolling hills and red gums on the Glenelg River, Harrow offers a rich blend of history, culture and country charm. This small but vibrant town is one of Victoria’s oldest inland settlements, first established in the 1840s as Upper Glenelg.
Stroll its heritage streetscape and discover Victoria’s oldest inland pub, the Hermitage Hotel. We can attest that the counter lunches here (Saturdays and Sundays only) are scrumptious.
Visit the Harrow Discovery Centre and Johnny Mullagh Interpretive Centre, where you’ll uncover the powerful story of Australia’s First XI — an Aboriginal cricket team that toured England in 1868, led by legendary local Johnny ‘Unaarrimin’ Mullagh. See his Mullagh Medal, awarded annually to the MCG Boxing Day Test player of the match, and explore one of the largest private collections of Sir Donald Bradman memorabilia.
Walk the interpretive river trail, check out the log gaol or relax in the peaceful Johnny Mullagh Reserve with its campground, powered sites and picnic areas. Take a dip in the Glenelg River or try your luck fishing for redfin.
A hub of creativity and community pride, Harrow hosts events such as the National Bush Billycart Championships, the quirky Beaut Blokes weekend and the Harrow by Night Sound and Light Show — a humorous retelling of the town’s colourful past.
Where to stay:
76,000 hectares of this beautiful national park burned in the 2024–2025 bushfires
Dimboola
Tucked between Horsham and Nhill in Victoria’s west, Dimboola is a laid-back country town with heritage charm and natural beauty. Located on the Wimmera River, it’s a haven for outdoor lovers — perfect for kayaking, bushwalking or casting a line.
Due to the impacts of the 2025 bushfires, the nearby Little Desert National Park is closed in the interests of public safety, except for the part west of the Kaniva–Edenhope Road to the South Australian border. Around 70 per cent of the park was burnt. Once the park does reopen, it offers much for hikers, 4WD adventurers and birdwatchers. Visit the Parks Victoria website to check the status. In the meantime, dispersed camping is permitted in the Western Block.
History buffs can explore heritage-listed buildings or visit the Dimboola mural near the town library by local artist Travis Price, inspired by life on the river and the region’s Indigenous history. The quirky Wimmera Steampunk Festival adds a creative twist every second year, drawing crowds to its costumed streets.
A short drive north leads to the stunning Pink Lake, where seasonal algae tint the salt surface bright rose hues — especially vivid after rain.
Dimboola is a scenic, uncrowded stopover en route between Melbourne and Adelaide. Whether you’re pitching a tent at Horseshoe Bend or enjoying the peaceful vibe in town, Dimboola makes it easy to slow down and soak up the country vibe.
Where to stay:
Wyperfeld National Park
Wyperfeld National Park offers vast mallee landscapes, seasonal wildflowers and a wealth of native wildlife. Popular campgrounds include Wonga Camping Area in the southern section (bookings required and fees apply), with 60 unpowered sites (many are suitable for caravans), fireplaces, barbecues and a visitor centre; Casuarina and Snowdrift in the north are free and operate on a first come, first served basis. We’d recommend Casuarina for small offroad RVs only. All sites have basic facilities — non-flush toilets, picnic tables and fireplaces — but no power or potable water. Fires are permitted in designated spots only; bring your own water and firewood. The park suits walkers, 4WD explorers and birdwatchers. Spring, autumn and winter are the best times to visit. Located 450km northwest of Melbourne, accommodation is available in nearby towns such Hopetoun, Rainbow and Jeparit.
Where to stay:
- Jeparit Riverview Holiday Park
- Rainbow Holiday Park
- Pine Plains Lodge (Wyperfeld National Park)
- Hopetoun Caravan Park
- Mallee Bush Retreat
From paddocks to peaks in the Grampians region
Murtoa
Murtoa is a charming country town just 25 minutes from Horsham and halfway between Melbourne and Adelaide — perfect for a caravanning stopover. Murtoa offers peaceful camping on the shore of Lake Marma and promises birdlife, stunning sunsets and a warm welcome from locals.
Murtoa is home to The Stick Shed (National Heritage List), the only surviving emergency grain store in Australia that was built during WWII. Nearby, you’ll find the Murtoa Museum Precinct, which includes the restored Murtoa Railway Station (1878), Concordia Cottage (1890) and the Water Tower Museum.
Explore the town’s heritage via self-guided walking trails, including the Kurrajong tree-lined Comyn Street and charming historic buildings. Don’t miss the breathtaking Murtoa Silo Art which honours Dr John Cade, a Murtoa-born psychiatrist; the silo comes alive with animation every night thanks to light artist Dave Jones.
Where to stay:
Sea Lake
Set in the heart of the Mallee, Sea Lake is a small town with a big spirit. A creative hub, it’s where starry skies meet eye-catching salt lake landscapes. Gateway to the iconic Lake Tyrrell, and a must-stop on the Silo Art Trail, this welcoming spot is packed with heritage, stargazing and grassroots hospitality.
Just 7km north of Sea Lake, Lake Tyrrell is Victoria’s largest salt lake and one of its oldest landscapes, dating back 120,000 years. Its mirror-like surface reflects skies in surreal detail, making it a bucket-list destination for photographers and night-sky lovers. Visit at sunrise, sunset or after dark for unforgettable views. A viewing platform, boardwalk and signage help visitors explore respectfully.
The Sea Lake Silo Art features a young girl gazing over the lake, connecting with her Indigenous heritage. It reflects Boorong Country’s rich astronomy, storytelling and sense of place. At night, the silos come to life with a free cinematic projection show.
Be sure to drop into the restored Royal Hotel for a cold beer and a hearty feed.
Visit Sea Lake between late winter and early summer to see the lake at its most colourful and catch wildflowers blooming in the Mallee.
Where to stay:
Ararat
Ararat is a vibrant regional hub known for its manufacturing, agriculture and tourism, serving as a gateway to the Grampians region. It offers a rich blend of gold rush history, culture and natural beauty. Explore the town’s unique Chinese heritage at the Gum San Chinese Heritage Centre, delve into the eerie past of the J Ward Museum and admire textile art at Ararat Gallery TAMA (Textural Art Museum Australia). Walk, cycle or drive up One Tree Hill for panoramic views of Ararat, Black Range, Grampians (Gariwerd) National Park, Mount Langi Ghiran and the Wimmera Plains.
Follow the scenic C222 route from Ararat through Moyston to Pomonal and on to Halls Gap and Grampians (Gariwerd) National Park. Explore the region’s acclaimed cool-climate wineries, famed for their peppery shiraz and historic cellar doors.
Mount Langi Ghiran near Ararat is famous for its shiraz
Where to stay:
St Arnaud
Wander gold-rush streetscapes, grab a frothy in one of the grand old pubs, explore silo art and reconnect with nature in St Arnaud. Set on Dja Dja Wurrung Country, this historic town charms with heritage buildings, the Queen Mary Gardens and a thriving local arts scene. Visit the Raillery Hub, follow Kyle Torney’s silo art trail and bushwalk in Kara Kara National Park, home to one of the most intact remnants of box-ironbark forest in Victoria and a refuge for several vulnerable or endangered bird species.
Kara Kara National Park offers caravan-accessible camping at Teddington Camping Area, bushwalking trails and several rough roads that are perfect for mountain biking and four-wheel driving.
Where to stay:
Hamilton
Framed by dormant volcanoes and sweeping farmland, Hamilton in the southern Grampians is where heritage meets nature. It’s a thriving cultural hub steeped in natural beauty and rich pastoral history. One of Victoria’s earliest regional botanic gardens, the four-hectare showpiece that is Hamilton Botanic Gardens was designed by William Guilfoyle, the chief creative mind behind Melbourne’s Royal Botanic Gardens. His signature style is unmistakable: sweeping lawns, serpentine paths, cacti rockeries and bold plant contrasts. Classified by the National Trust in 1990, the gardens also feature heritage trees, lakes, bird enclosures and striking views from every angle.
Enjoy lakeside recreations at Lake Hamilton or attractions such as Hamilton Gallery and the Sir Reginald Ansett Transport Museum. Explore nearby Wannon Falls (year-round) and Nigretta Falls (seasonal) — the waterfalls are best visited after rains for maximum visual and aural impact.
Where to stay:
Plenty of local flavours to enjoy on a weekend getaway or midweek escape (Image Visit Victoria)
Penshurst
Set beneath the now-extinct Collorrer (Mount Rouse) volcano, Penshurst offers a front-row seat to Victoria’s dramatic volcanic past. Explore the Volcanoes Discovery Centre and learn how the Western Victorian Volcanic Plain came to be the third largest volcanic plain in the world. Walk among lava flows and enjoy panoramic views from the summit. Wander the Botanic and Wetland gardens, spot birdlife at Yatmerone Reserve and discover the legacy of artist Mervyn Napier Waller CMG OBE, the man who designed and created the mosaics and stained glass of the Hall of Memory in the Australian War Memorial. A key stop on the Kanawinka Geotrail, Penshurst blends geology, nature and heritage in a peaceful setting between the Grampians and the coast.
Where to stay:
Make your visit count
The Grampians is open and thriving again, making now the ideal time to explore its walks, wineries and welcoming towns. From a quick break to a longer stay, every visit supports the region’s recovery and keeps local communities strong.
More places to stay with your caravan
- Beulah Creek Caravan Park, Redda’s Park, Minyip Caravan Rest Stop and Rupanyup Memorial Park
- Birchip Motel & Caravan Park
- Goroke Accommodation Park
- Happy Wanderer Holiday Resort & Caravan Park (Wartook)
- Kaniva Poolside Caravan Park
- Lake Charlegrark Caravan Park
- Nhill Holiday Park
- Tiny Away Escape Grampians Edge (Dadswell Bridge)
- Warracknabeal Caravan Park
Don’t miss Splitters Falls near Halls Gap
THE NEXT STEP
If you want to learn the latest caravan news, find the most innovative new caravans, tow vehicles and camping gear or get inspired to plan your next caravan or fishing trip to some of Australia’s best getaway destinations, subscribe to our weekly newsletter. We promise to send you only the best content.
Related articles:
Head on an epic road trip in the Wimmera Mallee, Victoria
Book review: Silo Art Ultimate Guide | Fourth edition
Tour the Grampians and support bushfire recovery