Campaspe Riverside Reserve: Free, Pet-Friendly Camping in Elmore

Located conveniently on the Midland Highway, the Campaspe Riverside Reserve in Elmore is a fantastic and highly-regarded free camping spot for travellers exploring central Victoria. This spacious reserve offers a beautiful, park-like setting with large, grassy areas shaded by mature gum trees, all right on the banks of the Campaspe River. It’s an incredibly popular stopover for those with self-contained caravans and RVs, providing ample room to pull up for a night or two without unhitching. The serene atmosphere makes it a perfect place to relax, with the gentle sounds of the river and local birdlife creating a peaceful backdrop.

The reserve is a credit to the local community, offering basic but well-maintained facilities that enhance the camping experience. While there are no showers, the presence of toilets is a welcome convenience. The main drawcard is the beautiful river itself, offering opportunities for fishing, kayaking, and enjoying the picturesque scenery. As a pet-friendly location, it’s an ideal spot for those travelling with their furry companions. While the campground is free, visitors are encouraged to support the town of Elmore, which is just a short walk away and offers a classic country pub, a renowned bakery, and other essential services. For a comfortable, convenient, and scenic free camp that perfectly captures the charm of regional Victoria, the Campaspe Riverside Reserve is an outstanding choice.

Campground Information

• Name: Campaspe Riverside Reserve
• Address: Midland Highway, Elmore, Victoria 3558, Australia
• GPS Coordinates: -36.49822610160595, 144.61102266221218
• Website: Managed by local authorities (no direct website).

Features & Rules

• Location: Grassy, park-like reserve on the banks of the Campaspe River.
• Site Suitable For: Self-contained RVs, caravans, and camper trailers.
• Road Access: Excellent sealed road access from the Midland Highway.
• Site Surface: Mostly level grass.
• Camping Permitted: Yes, free camping is permitted for short stays.
• Maximum Overnight Stays: Typically 24-48 hours. Check local signage.
• Facilities: Toilets, picnic tables, and BBQs.
• Potable Water: A water tap is available, but bringing your own is recommended.
• Mobile Phone Coverage: Good coverage for major carriers.
• Onsite Public Toilets: Yes, toilets are available.
• Rubbish Bins: Yes, bins are generally provided.
• Open Fires: Generally not permitted; use provided BBQs.
• Generator Use: Permitted, with consideration for other campers.
• Number of Sites Available: Numerous undesignated, unpowered sites.
• Essentials to Bring: Your own supplies.
• Pet Friendly: Yes, pets are permitted on a leash.
• Fishing: Possible in the Campaspe River.
• Short Walks: A pleasant walking track follows the river into the Elmore township.

Local Amenities & Attractions

• Local Pubs:
  • Shamrock Hotel (Elmore) – approx. 1 km
  • Railway Hotel (Elmore) – approx. 1 km
  • Goornong Hotel – approx. 18 km
• Places to Eat:
  • The Elmore Bakery – approx. 1 km
  • Various cafes and takeaways in Elmore – approx. 1 km
• Local Attractions:
  • Campaspe Run Rural Discovery Centre – approx. 1 km
  • Elmore Miniature Railway – approx. 2 km
  • Historic town of Bendigo – approx. 50 km

Nearby Parks & Services

• Nearest Caravan Parks:
  • Elmore Caravan Park – approx. 2 km
• Nearest Alternate Free Camps:
  • Aysons Reserve – approx. 10 km
  • Englishs Bridge Streamside Reserve – approx. 20 km
• Nearest Dump Points:
  • Elmore Events Centre (check for public access) – approx. 5 km
• Nearest Petrol Station: BP Elmore – approx. 1 km.
• Nearest Drinking Water Resupply: On-site at the reserve.
• Nearest Public Toilets: On-site at the reserve.

Seasonal Weather Forecast

• Summer (Dec-Feb): Warm to hot and generally dry. Average maximum temperatures are around 30°C.
• Autumn (Mar-May): Mild, sunny days and cool nights. Ideal for exploring. Average maximums range from 17°C to 26°C.
• Winter (Jun-Aug): Cool days and cold nights with frequent frosts. Average maximums are around 13°C to 14°C.
• Spring (Sep-Nov): Mild and becoming warmer, with pleasant conditions. Average maximums range from 17°C to 25°C.