January 8, 2026
If you’re currently enjoying a summer getaway in Victoria, we’ve got an important safety update that might require a little pivot in your plans. Parks Victoria has announced mass closures for Friday 9 January, 2026, as ‘Catastrophic’ fire danger ratings are forecast for several of our favourite family holiday regions. Authorities are asking everyone currently holidaying in high-risk zones to pack up and leave early – ideally today to ensure your family and your four-legged friends stay safe.
The “Leave Early” zones: Wimmera, South West, North Central, and Northern Country
The 2026 Victorian fires season has brought some very dire weather conditions our way. For Friday, the Fire Danger Rating has been elevated to ‘Catastrophic’ (which is the highest possible level) in the Wimmera, South West, North Central, and Northern Country districts. The rest of the state isn’t far behind, with ‘Extreme’ ratings issued everywhere else.
What does ‘Catastrophic’ actually mean for us travellers? Simply put, it’s the most dangerous level of fire risk. If a fire starts, it will likely be uncontrollable and fast-moving. This is why emergency services are advising anyone holidaying in these regions to leave before 7am on Friday morning at the very latest. If you can make tracks today (Thursday), that’s even better!
Major family campsites affected
Because safety is the number one priority, Parks Victoria is closing all public land reserves in those Catastrophic zones. This includes some of the absolute gems of the Victorian RV scene. If you had a booking at one of these spots, Parks Victoria will be in touch about cancellations and refunds, but the message is clear: please stay home and stay safe.
| District | Popular Family Parks Closed | What You Need to Know |
|---|---|---|
| Wimmera | Grampians National Park, Little Desert NP | Mandatory evacuation for all campsites. |
| North Central | Lake Eildon NP, Kinglake NP, Cathedral Range | Major water-front camping hubs closed. |
| South West | Great Otway NP (West), Lower Glenelg NP | Coastal campers should head east or inland. |
| Northern Country | Barmah NP, Warby-Ovens NP | River-front camping is strictly off-limits. |
Finding a safe haven: Where to take your family (and your pets)
We know how heartbreaking it is to cut a holiday short, especially when you’ve got the kids and the dog all settled in. If you’re looking to relocate, the safest bet is to head towards urban areas or regions with a lower fire risk (though remember, the whole state is under ‘Extreme’ alert, so nowhere is entirely risk-free).
If you’re travelling with pets, many commercial caravan parks in safer zones remain open—just be sure to call ahead! Places like Lakes and Craters Holiday Park in Camperdown or BIG4 Windmill Holiday Park in Ballarat are famous for being pet-friendly and offer a great “plan B” if you need to escape the forested high-danger zones. Just remember to keep your pets close and have their travel kits ready to go.
⚠️ CAUTION: On days of Catastrophic danger, even well-prepared homes and campgrounds aren’t safe. Emergency services may not be able to reach you, so leaving early is your only truly safe option.
Staying calm and informed: Your emergency toolkit
Information is your best friend when things get a bit stressful. Before you hitch up and head off, make sure you’ve got these basics sorted:
- VicEmergency App: Set up your “Watch Zones” to get instant alerts for your current location and your destination. Use these links to download the iOS and Android links to the app or check out the “incidents and warnings” page.
- ABC Local Radio: Keep the radio on while you’re driving. It’s the best way to get real-time emergency updates.
- Total Fire Ban Rules: Remember, no campfires, no heat beads, and no gas cooktops in the open air. Let’s all do our part to keep our communities safe.
Better safe than sorry
It’s a tough break for the summer holidays, but the 2026 Victorian fires threat is something we have to take seriously. Taking the time to relocate today means you can relax knowing your family is out of harm’s way. There will always be another weekend for Mackenzie Falls or Lake Eildon. Stay safe, look after each other, and we wish you happy (and safe) travels!
Read next
Important safety gear and accessories to sort before your big trip
Do you have these safety alarms in your caravan or motorhome?
Essential caravan gear: 12V fans to keep you comfortable this summer
