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Mount Cole State Forest

Mount Cole State Forest

Mount Cole State Forest is a bushwalker’s heaven. Located near Ararat, this incredible forest covers 12,150 hectares, and is filled with fern gullies punctuated by alpine plateaus, and provides visitors with amazing views of the Grampians.

The forest is home to a diverse array of trees, plants, and animals.

Mount Cole State Forest, Camping, Hunting, Walks, 4WD Trails & Map, VIC

The primary trees that can be seen here are the messmates, blue gums, and the manna gum. There are also the yellow box trees, red stringybark, and the Mount Cole Grevillea. Over 130 bird species have been spotted here, while animals include the wallabies, kangaroos, koalas, echidna, possums, and much more.

The forest, situated on a plateau, is equipped with camping and picnic facilities that can cater to small and large groups. Visitors can choose from 6 camping sites: Beeripmo, Smith’s Bridge, Ditchfields, Mugwamp, Chinamans, and Richards. The campsites make a great base for all your outdoor activities within the forest.

Whether you choose to go bushwalking, hunting, horse-riding, or simply enjoy the outdoors, you’ll have what you need for a comfortable stay. Most of the campsites have picnic facilities, fireplaces, shelters, and toilets. Keep in mind that the campsites are reserved on a first-come, first-served basis.

It’s highly recommended to explore the Mount Cole State Forest on foot. You will see stunning eucalyptus plants, steep escarpments, and creek flats. If you get to reach the summit of Mount Buangor nearby, you’ll be rewarded with breathtaking views of the countryside.

Visitors can access several walks from the park. With around 15km of walking tracks to choose from, there are many suitable for beginners. The area of the Sugarloaf and Bukkertillible walks that are between the 2 Mile Circuit and The Cave is rather remote, and recommended for experienced bushwalkers.

About the author

Michael Jones

Michael created and runs the Grampians Point website, as well as the Holiday Point travel brand that incorporates a network of 16 location based travel information and attraction websites around Australia, Asia, and around the world.

With 25+ years of online experience and a passion for travel (having lived in Melbourne most of his life and has visited the Grampians many times), Michael not only researches and writes content for the website, he also tinkers behind the scenes with the website functionality & design.

Please reach out if you have any questions or suggestions.

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