FIVE of the most popular campgrounds in Victoria's Grampians National Park have had a major $1.5 million upgrade.

The Boreang, Mount Staplyton, Plantation, Jimmy Creek and Smith's Mill campgrounds received new or upgraded facilities, including environmentally-friendly toilets, bush showers, improved layouts and better defined sites.

Victorian Parliamentary Secretary for the Environment and Water Michael Crutchfield, who inspected the newly re-opened Plantation Campground, said the upgrades were evidence of the government's commitment to improving visitor facilities and encouraging more people to spend time in Victorian parks.

The Grampians National Park was a "very special place" for many Victorians, and the improvements made the campgrounds more accessible for all types of visitors, especially families and first time campers.

Local businesses also contributed to the makeover of the Plantation site, with new native plantings by Grampians Reveg, co-design and construction of the toilets and bush shower by Ricksteel Fabrications and site preparation by Pomonal Bobcat Services and Skyrider Tower Hire.

Parks Victoria's Acting Ranger in Charge Mike Stevens hoped the upgrades would encourage a wider variety of campers to visit the Grampians.

"The improvements at these sites will make camping more comfortable and enjoyable for everyone, ranging from basic tent camping to caravans and campervans, as well as large groups," he said.

For further information on camping in the Grampians National Park visit www.parkweb.vic.gov.au.

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