By Derek Schlennstedt
In today’s digital era of Twitter, Snapchat, Facebook and Instagram, it can be difficult to get away from the constant barrage of information.
But the human spirit needs places where nature has not been rearranged by the hands of man; places away from Wi-Fi and reception, where the constant hum of traffic is replaced by rich bird calls and melodious crickets; where the sky meets the horizon and the night is filled with the spiralling streaks of the Milky Way and thousands of sparkling stars.
There’s something about camping that nourishes and reinvigorates the soul. Sleeping under damp nylon and cooking on a small explosive device soothes the psyche like nothing else.
It is lucky then, that there are many places around the Yarra Ranges that offer that release. Pitch a tent or park a campervan, there are many secret camp grounds to share with close friends in the picturesque Yarra Valley and the mountainous Dandenong Ranges.
Delve into the Dandenong Ranges and camp around Emerald and Gembrook, at Wombat Corner near Emerald Lake Park, Kurth Kiln Park and in Bunyip State Park.
Be sure to take a torch and spot the nocturnal possums, owls, bats and gliders that inhabit this forested region.
Many of the camp sites feature electric barbecues, toilets, showers and fireplaces, so you can enjoy the creature comforts of home.
In the Yarra Valley, campers are spoiled for choice, with locations in Warburton and the upper Yarra Valley offering crystalclear water to fish and swim in.
Of course for those wanting the luxury of a roof over their head, there is always the option to upgrade to a caravan or cabin and sleep in close proximity to Steavenson Falls at Marysville Caravan and Holiday Park.
A little outside of Marysville is a true campers’ delight, with the 3577 hectare Cathedral Ranges featuring a variety of walking tracks that offer the opportunity to climb high peaks and enjoy views of the forests and farmland in the valley below.
From relaxed camping by a clear mountain stream to a spectacular rugged, rocky ridge climb to one of its many high exposed peaks, the Cathedrals Ranges offers that dose of fresh mountain air.
This summer delight in the starry skies and humid nights and get away from the rat race.
