Warburtons Bridge Campground | Free Loddon River Camping Near Castlemaine

Immerse yourself in the heart of the Victorian Goldfields with a stay at Warburtons Bridge Campground, a popular and picturesque free camping area on the banks of the Loddon River. Located in the tranquil surrounds of Glenluce, this is a classic Australian bush camp, offering a peaceful and back-to-basics experience for self-sufficient travellers. The campground is spread across a spacious, relatively flat area shaded by magnificent river red gums, providing a serene setting to relax and connect with nature. It’s a favourite spot for families, prospectors trying their luck for gold, and anyone seeking an authentic, budget-friendly base to explore the rich history and natural beauty of the Castlemaine Diggings National Heritage Park.

The Loddon River is the main attraction, offering opportunities for a refreshing swim on a hot day, a leisurely paddle in a kayak, or a quiet afternoon of fishing for Redfin. The surrounding bushland is rich with birdlife and provides a beautiful backdrop for short walks along the riverbank. As a free, basic campground, facilities are limited, which is part of its charm for those looking to escape the crowds. The campground’s location is a significant advantage, placing you right in the middle of a region bursting with attractions. The vibrant and historic towns of Castlemaine and Daylesford are both just a short and scenic drive away, offering award-winning cafes, artisan shops, and farmers markets. The famous Vaughan Mineral Springs is also just down the road, providing a great spot for a picnic. For an authentic bush camping experience that offers riverside tranquility and a direct connection to Victoria’s golden past, Warburtons Bridge Campground is a fantastic choice.

Campground Information

• Name: Warburtons Bridge Campground
• Address: Drummond-Vaughan Rd, Glenluce VIC 3451

Location Coordinates

• GPS: -37.16984240201909, 144.23741755392138

Website

• Website: This is a free campground within a state park. Information is available on the Parks Victoria website.

Location Map

Site Details

• Location: Riverside bush camp in Castlemaine Diggings National Heritage Park.
• Site Suitable For: Caravans, Motorhomes, Camper Trailers, Tents. Best for self-contained setups.
• Road Access: Dirt/gravel road, generally suitable for 2WD vehicles in dry conditions.
• Site Surface: Grass and dirt.
• Camping Permitted: Yes, free camping.
• Maximum Overnight Stays: Check Parks Victoria guidelines, typically short stays are expected.
• Facilities: Non-flush toilets, picnic tables, wood fire pits.
• Potable Water: No. You must bring your own drinking water.
• Mobile Phone Coverage: Patchy to non-existent. Telstra may have limited service in some spots.
• Onsite Public Toilets: Yes, non-flush (pit) toilets.
• Rubbish Bins: No. This is a carry-in, carry-out site.
• Open Fires: Permitted in designated fire pits only, subject to seasonal fire restrictions. BYO firewood.
• Generator Use: Permitted during designated hours. Be considerate of other campers.
• Number of Sites Available: Unmarked sites, space for 20+ vans.
• Essentials to Bring: Drinking water, firewood, toilet paper, rubbish bags, insect repellent.
• Pet Friendly: Yes, pets are permitted on a lead.

Activities

• Fishing: Fishing for Redfin in the Loddon River.
• Short Walks: Bushwalking along the river and exploring the surrounding historic goldfields.
• Gold Fossicking: The area is popular for gold prospecting (miners right required).

Local Amenities

• Local Pubs:
  • The Guildford Hotel (Guildford) – Approx. 10 km
  • The Cumberland Hotel (Castlemaine) – Approx. 18 km
  • The Bridge Hotel (Castlemaine) – Approx. 18 km
• Places to Eat:
  • Vaughan Springs General Store (basic takeaway) – Approx. 5 km
  • Numerous cafes and restaurants in Castlemaine and Daylesford – Approx. 18-20 km
• Local Attractions:
  • Vaughan Mineral Springs – Approx. 5 km
  • Castlemaine Diggings National Heritage Park – You are in it!
  • The Mill Castlemaine (vintage market, fooderies) – Approx. 18 km
  • Daylesford Lake and town centre – Approx. 20 km
• Nearest Caravan Parks:
  • Castlemaine Gardens Holiday Park – Approx. 18 km
  • Daylesford Holiday Park – Approx. 20 km
• Next Free Camps:
  • Mount Franklin Reserve – Approx. 15 km
  • Notions Track Campground (Hepburn Regional Park) – Approx. 20 km
• Nearest Dump Points:
  • Castlemaine Public Dump Point (near the old gaol) – Approx. 18 km
• Nearest Petrol Station:
  • Castlemaine – Approx. 18 km
• Drinking Water Resupply:
  • Available at Visitor Information Centres in Castlemaine or Daylesford.
• Public Toilets:
  • Available onsite (non-flush). Full facilities in Castlemaine and Daylesford.

Seasonal Weather Forecast

• Summer (Dec-Feb): Warm to hot and typically dry, averaging 14-28°C.
• Autumn (Mar-May): Mild, sunny days and cool nights, known for beautiful autumn colours, averaging 8-22°C.
• Winter (Jun-Aug): Cold and crisp, with frequent frosts and chilly days. Great for campfires, averaging 3-12°C.
• Spring (Sep-Nov): Cool to mild with increasing sunshine, a great time for bushwalking, averaging 6-19°C.