Little Desert National Park, Grampians

In the Grampians region Little Desert National Park is a little piece of Australia’s wild and wonderful. Smaller than Grampians National Park but a hidden gem, this is a peaceful retreat with stunning views, panoramic views and a rich cultural heritage. Perfect for getting back to nature you can hike, rock climb and explore Aboriginal rock art sites. You’ll see the mountains and desert, a must see for nature lovers.

A Change of Scenery

One of the best things about Little Desert National Park is the change of scenery. You’ll see desert plains, green valleys and pockets of forest. The landscape changes dramatically as you move from the sandy eastern sections to the bushier western sections. It’s like the bigger Grampians National Park, where the mountain ranges and spectacular views from Boroka Lookout or Reed Lookout give you a higher perspective. The views of Lake Wartook and Victoria Valley from the Grampians Peaks Trail are like the gorgeous views of Little Desert’s landscape. Public land in the desert and mountains is a nature lover’s paradise.

Plants and Animals

Little Desert National Park has an incredible array of native animals and plants, a real natural wonder. The park has over 600 plant species, heathlands, desert banksias and wildflowers that bloom in spring. It’s as beautiful as the wildflower seasons in Grampians National Park where eucalyptus trees and ferns are the landscape. The animals of Little Desert are just as impressive as kangaroos, emus and Malleefowl. Native animals in the bigger Grampians, like wallabies and echidnas, make the region a wildlife haven. Exotic mammals and birds thrive in these ecosystems, and birdwatchers flock to parks to see rare and colourful birds. Whether you’re walking through the valleys of Little Desert or hiking the mountains of the Northern Grampians, you’ll have plenty of opportunities to encounter Australia’s native wildlife.

Aboriginal Cultural Heritage

The Little Desert is significant to the Traditional Owners of the land, the Djab Wurrung and Wotjobaluk people. Aboriginal rock art is throughout the area, giving us a glimpse into the cultural and historical heritage of Australia’s First Peoples. Like the rock art in Grampians National Park’s Gulgurn Manja Shelter, the rock art in Little Desert is a reminder of the connection between Indigenous people and the land. These sites are on public and private land so are important to the park’s history and spirituality.

Camping and Accommodation

Whether you want a luxury getaway or a rough and tumble outdoor adventure activities, Little Desert National Park has camping and accommodation for all. The park has several campsites, including Ackle Bend, which has basic amenities like self-contained kitchens, air-con/heater and an amenities block. For more comfort, there are nearby options like Breeze Holiday Parks – Grampians and the Royal Mail Hotel. Like the places around Grampians National Park, Little Desert has something for everyone, such as a bush camp or farm gate shop near the park.

Wildflower Season: Don’t Miss

Visit Little Desert National Park during spring wildflower season and be blown away. This is an experience not to be missed. The arid landscape turns into a kaleidoscope of colour with native flowers like desert peas and banksias covering the ground. Like the spring picturesque views from Grampians’ Boronia Peak Trail, Little Desert’s wildflower season attracts visitors from all over. The views are perfect for photography and taking in the park’s natural beauty.

For the Adventurous

Adventurers will find plenty to do in Little Desert National Park. The park has many tracks, including signposted track intersections, to get lost in. Hiking is popular, and the 2.3km track along the Wimmera is a nice one. For the more experienced hiker, the rocky climb up the mountain ranges in the Eastern Block is a challenge and a reward. Adventurous hikers can also rock scramble and rock hop around deeper rock pools and interesting rock formations. Whether it’s hiking, rock climbing or exploring the surrounding countryside, Little Desert has it all.

Hiking and Rock Climbing

Little Desert National Park is a climber and hiker’s paradise with rough terrain to get into. There are several tracks to choose from, for beginner and experienced hikers. The rocky climb up Hollow Mountain and Mount William is awesome, with great rock formations and views. Like the Grampians Peaks Trail, Little Desert has tracks that allow you to walk the whole park, with a steady climb giving great views over the landscape. If you’re planning a Grampians day trip, the nearby Little Desert offers a more rugged alternative. Cooler months are best for hiking to get out of the heat, and warmer months are to see the park in its raw state.

4WD and Off-Road Adventures

For the adventurous, Little Desert National Park has 4WD and off-road adventures galore. The park’s sand and winding tracks are perfect for off-road driving. Like the off-road trails in Northern Grampians Shire, these tracks are a hands on adventure through rough country. Ackle Bend and the 4WD network of tracks will get you to remote areas of the park that are not accessible by normal vehicles.