A major search and rescue operation has been launched after a teenager vanished while camping with a friend in Victoria.

William, a 17-year-old from the Latrobe Valley, went camping with another teenager at Stoney Creek Rd, near T2 Track at Walhalla East on Friday.

The boys had planned to stay at the spot for the weekend, however, after setting up camp William went for a short walk to another part of the campsite.

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When he failed to return a short time later, his friend began searching the area but found no trace of William.

Police said they believe he may have become disorientated and lost his way in the surrounding terrain.

“Police and family members are growing increasingly concerned for Will,” they said.

William was camping with a friend when he vanished. Credit: VIC Police

Officers said their concerns were raised over William wearing minimal clothes at the time he went missing, only a pair of shorts and work boots, and also due to bad weather over the weekend.

“Police have set up a command post in Cowwarr to coordinate the search, which involves local police resources from Maffra, Sale, Rosedale, Morwell, Bairnsdale and bikes from the Gippsland motorcycle branch,” they said.

“Officers from the Public Order Response Team, Dog Squad, Mounted Branch, Search and Rescue Squad will be on site and searching today with support from State Emergency Services personnel.”

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Anyone with information is urged to contact police.