Ada River Campground: Free Pet-Friendly Camping in Ancient Rainforests

Escape to a world of ancient giants and serene tranquility at the Ada River Camping Area, a remarkable free campground nestled deep within the magnificent Errinundra National Park. This is a truly special destination for self-sufficient campers, offering a rare opportunity to stay in one of Victoria’s largest remaining cool temperate rainforests. The campground itself is a peaceful, grassy clearing set beside the gentle Ada River, surrounded by towering eucalypts and lush ferns. It’s a place of profound quiet, where the only sounds are the trickling of the river and the chorus of native birdlife. The solitude and pristine natural beauty make it the perfect spot to disconnect from the modern world and recharge.

This is a genuine bush camp for the well-prepared adventurer. While basic facilities like non-flushing toilets, picnic tables, and fire pits are provided, there is no drinking water or rubbish disposal. Campers must bring all their own supplies and adhere to a strict ‘leave no trace’ ethic. A major drawcard for many is that the Ada River campground is **pet-friendly**, allowing you to explore this incredible wilderness with your canine companion. The access roads into the park are unsealed and can be challenging, especially after rain, so a 4WD or high-clearance vehicle is highly recommended. The journey is part of the experience, taking you deep into a remote landscape that feels worlds away from anywhere. For those equipped for the adventure, Ada River offers an unforgettable free camping experience in a truly magical part of Australia.

Campground Information

• Name: Ada River Camping Area
• Address: Ada River Road, Errinundra National Park, Victoria 3888, Australia
• GPS Coordinates: -37.404167, 148.892502
• Website: Managed by Parks Victoria (no direct website for the campground).

Features & Rules

• Location: Remote, serene setting in a grassy clearing by the Ada River within Errinundra National Park.
• Site Suitable For: Tents, camper trailers, and off-road caravans.
• Road Access: Unsealed forest roads. 4WD or high-clearance vehicle highly recommended. Roads may be closed in winter.
• Site Surface: Grass and natural earth.
• Camping Permitted: Yes, in undesignated areas.
• Maximum Overnight Stays: No specified limit.
• Facilities: Non-flushing toilets, picnic tables, BBQs, and fire pits.
• Potable Water: No. You must bring your own drinking water.
• Mobile Phone Coverage: 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 fireplaces, subject to seasonal fire bans.
• Generator Use: Permitted, with consideration for other campers.
• Number of Sites Available: Several undesignated, unpowered sites.
• Essentials to Bring: Drinking water, firewood, rubbish bags, toilet paper, and all supplies.
• Pet Friendly: Yes, dogs are permitted on a leash.
• Fishing: Possible in the Ada River.
• Short Walks: Errinundra Old Growth Walk and other trails are accessible within the park.

Local Amenities & Attractions

• Local Pubs:
  • Bendoc Hotel – approx. 40 km
  • Delegate Hotel (NSW) – approx. 55 km
  • Club Hotel, Bombala (NSW) – approx. 75 km
• Places to Eat:
  • Bendoc Hotel – approx. 40 km
  • Cafes and pubs in Bombala (NSW) – approx. 75 km
• Local Attractions:
  • Errinundra Rainforest Walk
  • Goongerah township
  • Snowy River National Park

Nearby Parks & Services

• Nearest Caravan Parks:
  • Delegate Caravan Park (NSW) – approx. 55 km
  • Bombala Caravan Park (NSW) – approx. 75 km
  • Orbost Caravan Park – approx. 90 km
• Nearest Alternate Free Camps:
  • Delegate River Camping Area – approx. 24 km
  • Goongerah Camping Ground – approx. 25 km
• Nearest Dump Points:
  • Bombala Showground (NSW) – approx. 75 km
  • Orbost Public Dump Point – approx. 90 km
• Nearest Petrol Station: Bombala (NSW) – approx. 75 km or Orbost – approx. 90 km.
• Nearest Drinking Water Resupply: Public taps in Bombala or Orbost.
• Nearest Public Toilets: On-site (basic).

Seasonal Weather Forecast

• Summer (Dec-Feb): Mild to warm days with cool nights. The rainforest canopy provides good shade. Average maximums are around 22°C.
• Autumn (Mar-May): Cool days and cold nights. A beautiful time with autumn colours. Average maximums range from 12°C to 18°C.
• Winter (Jun-Aug): Cold, with a high chance of rain, frost, and snow, making access roads impassable. Not recommended for camping. Average maximums are around 8°C.
• Spring (Sep-Nov): Cool and damp as the forest comes to life. Roads may still be affected by weather. Average maximums range from 12°C to 18°C.