Anglers Rest Campground: Free Riverside Camping by the Blue Duck Inn

Steeped in history and surrounded by the breathtaking scenery of the Victorian High Country, Anglers Rest Campground is one of the region’s most iconic free camping destinations. Situated at the confluence of the Cobungra and Mitta Mitta rivers, this spacious, grassy reserve offers a truly memorable Australian bush experience. The campground is famed for its location right next to the legendary Blue Duck Inn, a historic pub that has been a welcoming watering hole for travellers, anglers, and cattlemen for over a century. This unique proximity allows campers to enjoy the solitude of a remote bush camp with the rare convenience of a hearty pub meal and a cold drink just a short stroll away. The broad, open flats provide plenty of room for all kinds of setups, from tents to large caravans, making it a popular choice for families and groups.

The campground itself is a paradise for outdoor lovers. The crystal-clear rivers are renowned for their excellent trout fishing and provide beautiful spots for swimming and kayaking on warmer days. As a basic free camp within the Alpine National Park, facilities are limited to non-flushing toilets and established fire pits. Campers must be fully self-sufficient, bringing their own drinking water and taking all rubbish with them to preserve the pristine environment. Access is excellent, directly off the sealed Omeo Highway, making it suitable for 2WD vehicles and caravans. It is essential for visitors to know that as part of the Alpine National Park, **pets are strictly not permitted** in the campground. For a unique blend of history, natural beauty, and high country hospitality, Anglers Rest is an unbeatable destination.

Campground Information

• Name: Anglers Rest Campground
• Address: 2855 Omeo Highway, Anglers Rest, Victoria 3898, Australia
• GPS Coordinates: -36.9888,147.4910
• Website: Managed by Parks Victoria (no direct website for the campground).

Features & Rules

• Location: Large, grassy flats at the junction of the Cobungra and Mitta Mitta rivers.
• Site Suitable For: Tents, camper trailers, caravans, and large rigs.
• Road Access: Excellent 2WD access directly from the sealed Omeo Highway.
• Site Surface: Mostly level grass, can be uneven in places.
• Camping Permitted: Yes, in undesignated areas.
• Maximum Overnight Stays: No specified limit.
• Facilities: Non-flushing toilets, picnic tables, 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, toilet paper.
• Pet Friendly: No, pets are not permitted in the Alpine National Park.
• Fishing: Excellent trout fishing in the adjacent rivers.
• Short Walks: Informal walks along the riverbanks.

Local Amenities & Attractions

• Local Pubs:
  • Blue Duck Inn – on-site
  • Golden Age Hotel (Omeo) – approx. 28 km
• Places to Eat:
  • Blue Duck Inn – on-site
  • Various pubs and cafes in Omeo – approx. 28 km
• Local Attractions:
  • Historic Blue Duck Inn
  • Great Alpine Road scenic drive
  • Omeo Historic Town – approx. 28 km

Nearby Parks & Services

• Nearest Caravan Parks:
  • Omeo Caravan Park – approx. 28 km
• Nearest Alternate Free Camps:
  • Big River Bridge Campground – approx. 2 km
  • Jokers Flat Campground – approx. 12 km
  • Victoria Falls Campground – approx. 16 km
• Nearest Dump Points:
  • Omeo Public Dump Point – approx. 28 km
  • Dinner Plain Public Dump Point – approx. 53 km
• Nearest Petrol Station: Omeo – approx. 28 km.
• Nearest Drinking Water Resupply: Public taps in Omeo – approx. 28 km.
• Nearest Public Toilets: On-site (basic).

Seasonal Weather Forecast

• Summer (Dec-Feb): Mild to warm days with cool nights. Perfect for river activities. Average maximums are around 22°C to 25°C.
• Autumn (Mar-May): Cool, crisp days and cold nights with stunning autumn colours. Average maximums range from 12°C to 20°C.
• Winter (Jun-Aug): Cold, with frosty nights and potential for snowfalls. The main road usually remains open. Average maximums are around 8°C to 11°C.
• Spring (Sep-Nov): Cool and becoming milder. The landscape is lush and green. Average maximums range from 13°C to 19°C.