Camping conditions of use
MAXIMUM STAY - 3 NIGHTS
Contact Bill on 0409 145 267 or Dennis on 0418 503 938 for shower code.
Donation envelopes are located at the main buildings.
Donations can be left at the Smythesdale Roadhouse or Post Office. Please do not leave money on site.
Camping is not permitted in central fenced area.
Vehicles must not be connected to water taps.
Dogs must be kept restrained at all times.
Camping by persons under the age of 18 without direct adult supervision is not permitted.
Bins are located at dump point. If full please do not leave rubbish on the ground.
The Smythesdale Gardens are maintained by community volunteers from the Smythesdale Progress Association. Your donations help us look after the gardens and to undertake other projects in the Smythesdale Community.
Please help us by providing a donation and looking after the grounds and facilities.
VISIT GOLDEN PLAINS
Smythesdale
Smythesdale offers a rich treasury of history, much of which can still be seen and enjoyed.
Gold was first discovered in Smythesdale's Woady Yaloak River in 1852. Miners soon flocked to the area for a piece of the prosperity and the region's population boomed.
By 1859, the population in the Smythes Creek Goldfields area was 20,000 which is quite a contrast to its current population of 1,026 residents (ABS 2016)
Located just 18km south west of Ballarat, Smythesdale is also known for its legal history. In the late 1800s, this thriving diggers' town became the law administration centre for the Ballarat Goldfields.
Today, remnants of this era are open for public view at the Smythesdale Historic Precinct, which features the original police lock-up, stables and Court House.
The gallows from the old Ballarat Gaol have been re-located to this Precinct.
Our lively little town is renowned for its fascinating and visible history as well as for its charming character, with many of the small shops and old buildings continuing to exude the look and feel of a time gone by.
NATURE AND RECREATION
Ballarat-Skipton Rail Trail
Walk, cycle or ride a horse along this 53km trail, and experience nature and history in towns, forests and farmland along the way.
Flagstaff Hill Lookout Located just outside Linton, this lookout lets you see right across Golden Plains, with views that span the Otways, Grampians, Bass Strait and incredible broad acre farm lands.
Brisbane Ranges National Park
Set in a low range of mountains, dissected by rocky gullies, the unusual geology of the Brisbane Ranges National Park has preserved plants that have long since vanished from other parts of the region. There are a number of options for bushwalking, ranging from short walks to three-day walks. The park is also popular for picnicking, scenic drives and camping.
Rainbow Bird Trail
Traverse this 35km trail and experience amazing orchids, birds and native mammals, amidst some of Victoria's most interesting rural and goldfields history.
Smythesdale Gardens
Set amongst a large treed area, local volunteers have resurrected the historic botanic gardens and created a peaceful open space which includes a playground and BBQ area for all to enjoy.
Woady Yaloak River Trail
Stroll along the River Trail from the gardens to the township centre and enjoy the sights and sounds.
FOOD AND WINE
Golden Plains Farmers' Market
This is a vibrant and authentic farmers' market that takes place on the first Saturday of every month, every season, from 8.30am to 12.30pm in the heart of Bannockburn, 20 minutes from Geelong. You can enjoy an array of farm-fresh, flavoursome and seasonal produce.
Smythesdale Country Market
Held on the third Saturday of every month (except January) from 9am to 1pm, the market offers a variety of crafts and goods, fresh produce as well as food ready to go. This is a great day out for the family right in the heart of Smythesdale.
Pubs, Bistros and Eateries
Country pub, organic cafe or hillside bistro, your options to rest, eat and drink are plentiful, memorable and delicious.
Moorabool Valley Taste Trail
The Moorabool Valley Taste Trail encompasses the rolling hills and magical valleys of the region north-west of Geelong. It's a foodie haven, gourmet delight and wine lover's paradise.
ARTS AND CULTURE
Golden Plains Arts Trail
Spread across the Shire, the Arts Trail provides a complete art experience, where you meet the artists in their studios and get hands-on with activities and workshops as you explore the wonders along the Arts Trail.
Meredith and Golden Plains Music Festivals
These iconic festivals are now a permanent fixture in Australia's music festival scene. Held annually every December and March in the 'Supernatural Amphitheatre' on farmland just outside of Meredith, the festivals offer a culture and music that reflects the strength and diversity of the national and international music scene.
HERITAGE
Smythesdale Historic Town Walk
Discover the wonders of yesteryear with a stroll around Smythesdale and visit the historic buildings and historical points of interest.
Nimons Bridge
Along the Ballarat-Skipton Rail Trail, you can see Golden Plains from atop this historic rail trestle bridge, with panoramic views that span the surrounding farm lands, forests and remnant gold tailings.
Cemeteries
Some of Victoria's earliest history can be found in the cemeteries across Golden Plains. These provide a fascinating historical and genealogical experience.
BBQ
Smythesdale
Follow us on Facebook