12 Mile Reserve: Free, Pet-Friendly Riverside Camping in the High Country

Discover the serene beauty of the Victorian High Country at 12 Mile Reserve, a picturesque free campground located in the heart of the Upper Goulburn Historic Area. Situated on the Mansfield-Woods Point Road near the historic Kevington Hotel, this delightful reserve offers a classic bush camping experience on the banks of the Goulburn River. The campground is a spacious, grassy area dotted with mature gum trees that provide ample shade, making it a perfect spot for tents, camper trailers, and caravans. It’s a haven for those looking to escape into nature, with the gentle sounds of the river and the surrounding forest creating a tranquil atmosphere.

The Goulburn River is the star attraction at 12 Mile Reserve, offering fantastic opportunities for outdoor recreation. The clear, cool waters are ideal for swimming on a hot summer’s day, and the area is well-regarded by anglers for its trout fishing. As a State Forest campground, it is proudly pet-friendly, allowing you to enjoy this beautiful part of the country with your dog. The facilities are basic, with non-flushing toilets and established fire pits, so campers need to be largely self-sufficient, bringing their own drinking water and taking all rubbish home. The easy 2WD access from the main road makes it a convenient and popular choice for a weekend getaway or as a base for exploring the rich gold mining history of nearby Jamieson and Woods Point. For a peaceful, budget-friendly, and scenic riverside retreat, 12 Mile Reserve is an excellent choice.

Campground Information

• Name: 12 Mile Reserve
• Address: Mansfield-Woods Point Road, Kevington, Victoria 3723, Australia
• GPS Coordinates: -37.385150040248206, 146.2286578733504
• Website: Managed by Forest Fire Management Victoria (no direct website).

Features & Rules

• • Note: This park is Seasonally Closed.
  • Location: Grassy reserve on the Goulburn River in the Upper Goulburn Historic Area.
  • Site Suitable For: Tents, camper trailers, and caravans.
  • Road Access: Excellent 2WD access from the sealed Mansfield-Woods Point Road.
  • Site Surface: Mostly level grass and natural earth.
  • Camping Permitted: Yes, free camping is permitted.
  • Maximum Overnight Stays: Up to 28 days.
  • Facilities: Non-flushing toilets and fire pits.
  • Potable Water: No. You must bring your own drinking water.
  • Mobile Phone Coverage: Very limited to non-existent.
  • Onsite Public Toilets: Yes, basic non-flushing toilets are available.
  • Rubbish Bins: No. All rubbish must be taken with you.
  • Open Fires: Permitted in provided fire pits, subject to seasonal fire bans.
  • Generator Use: Permitted, with consideration for other campers.
  • Number of Sites Available: Numerous undesignated, unpowered sites.
  • Essentials to Bring: Drinking water, firewood, rubbish bags, and toilet paper.
  • Pet Friendly: Yes, dogs are permitted on a leash.
  • Fishing: Excellent trout fishing in the Goulburn River.
  • Short Walks: Informal walks along the riverbank.

  Local Amenities & Attractions

  • Local Pubs:
    • Kevington Hotel – approx. 1 km
    • Courthouse Hotel (Jamieson) – approx. 25 km
    • Jamieson Brewery and Grill – approx. 25 km
  • Places to Eat:
    • Kevington Hotel – approx. 1 km
    • Various cafes and eateries in Jamieson – approx. 25 km
  • Local Attractions:
    • Goulburn River and historic gold mining areas
    • Historic town of Jamieson – approx. 25 km
    • Lake Eildon National Park

  Nearby Parks & Services

  • Nearest Caravan Parks:
    • Jamieson Caravan Park – approx. 25 km
    • Howqua Valley Holiday Park – approx. 45 km
  • Nearest Alternate Free Camps:
    • Flour Bag Reserve – approx. 3 km
    • Skipworth Reserve – approx. 8 km
  • Nearest Dump Points:
    • Mansfield Public Dump Point (near Visitor Information Centre) – approx. 50 km
  • Nearest Petrol Station: Jamieson – approx. 25 km.
  • Nearest Drinking Water Resupply: Public taps in Jamieson – approx. 25 km.
  • Nearest Public Toilets: On-site (basic). Flushing toilets in Jamieson.

  Seasonal Weather Forecast

  • Summer (Dec-Feb): Warm to hot days with cool mountain nights. Perfect for swimming. Average maximum temperatures are around 28°C.
  • Autumn (Mar-May): Mild, sunny days and crisp nights with stunning autumn colours. Average maximums range from 16°C to 25°C.
  • Winter (Jun-Aug): Cold, with frosty nights and potential for snow on surrounding peaks. Roads can be slippery. Average maximums are around 12°C to 14°C.
  • Spring (Sep-Nov): Cool and becoming milder. The river can be high from snowmelt. Average maximums range from 16°C to 23°C.