Kurth kiln Scout Loop

Scout Loop is the free bush campground in Kurth Kiln Regional Park, about 7km north of Gembrook in the Yarra Valley foothills. It is a no-frills, non-bookable site under tall eucalypt forest, and dogs are welcome in the camping area provided they stay on a lead the whole time.

The pet policy. Dogs are permitted at Scout Loop but must be kept on a leash at all times, in line with Parks Victoria rules for the wider regional park. There is no booking system and no fee. No official size or breed limits are listed, but rangers expect dogs under control at all times, including around the horse yards some visitors use.

The place. Facilities are basic: one drop toilet, fire pits, and picnic tables spread around a loop of around 30 sites of varying size, some needing more levelling than others. There is no potable water on site, so bring enough for yourself and your dog. The bush setting means European wasps and the odd falling branch are a real possibility, so keep dogs close rather than free to roam the campsite edges.

Location and nearby. Access is via Soldiers Road, sealed enough for a 2WD in dry weather but rougher after rain. Gembrook township is a short drive away for supplies and cafes. On site, walking tracks head out through the forest and past Tomahawk Creek, and the historic Kurth Kiln itself (a WWII-era charcoal kiln) is an easy stroll from the campground.

Before you book. There is nothing to book. Sites are first-come, first-served, so arrive early on weekends. Bring your own water, a lead long enough for camp life but not so long it tangles at the fire pit, and expect zero mobile reception once you are off Soldiers Road.

Go for a quiet, low-cost bush weekend rather than a resort experience. Best outside peak summer fire-danger periods, and check current park alerts before you head out since bush camping areas close on total fire ban days.

Sources

• Scout Loop Track Campground (Kurth Kiln Regional Park) · parks.vic.gov.au
• Kurth Kiln Regional Park - Parks Victoria · parks.vic.gov.au
• Scout Loop Track Campground - Kurth Kiln Regional Park · directory.fullrangecamping.com.au
• Kurth Kiln Scout Loop - WikiCamps Australia · wikicamps.com.au

Compiled from public sources and verified listings. Always confirm current rules with the venue or council before you travel.