Avonmore Streamside Reserve: Free & Pet-Friendly Camping on the Campaspe

For travellers seeking a quiet and secluded spot to unwind, the Avonmore Streamside Reserve offers a delightful free camping experience on the peaceful banks of the Campaspe River. Located between the rural townships of Goornong and Elmore, this reserve is a true hidden gem for self-sufficient campers. The campground is a simple, spacious, and shady area set amongst magnificent, mature gum trees, providing a classic Australian bush setting. It’s an ideal location for those looking to escape the crowds and enjoy nature’s tranquility. The large, open space is suitable for all types of setups, from tents to caravans, with plenty of room to find your own private spot with a view of the river.

This is a back-to-basics campground perfect for those who come fully prepared. There are no facilities on-site, meaning campers must bring their own portable toilet, drinking water, and take all their rubbish home with them. The reward for this self-sufficiency is a truly peaceful environment, perfect for fishing, kayaking, or simply sitting back and enjoying the abundant birdlife. As a pet-friendly location, it’s a wonderful opportunity to enjoy a riverside adventure with your furry friends. The access via unsealed roads is generally fine for 2WD vehicles in dry weather, but care should be taken after rain. With the convenience of nearby towns for supplies and the beauty of the Campaspe River at your doorstep, Avonmore Streamside Reserve is a fantastic choice for a budget-friendly and relaxing getaway in central Victoria.

Campground Information

• Name: Avonmore Streamside Reserve
• Address: Avonmore Road, Avonmore, Victoria 3557, Australia
• GPS Coordinates: -36.55907197587176, 144.58503492052304
• Website: Managed by local authorities (no direct website).

Features & Rules

• Location: Secluded and peaceful reserve on the banks of the Campaspe River.
• Site Suitable For: Tents, camper trailers, and caravans.
• Road Access: Unsealed road access, generally suitable for 2WD vehicles in dry conditions.
• Site Surface: Natural earth and grass.
• Camping Permitted: Yes, free camping is permitted.
• Maximum Overnight Stays: No specified limit, but short stays are encouraged.
• Facilities: None. This is a completely self-sufficient campsite.
• Potable Water: No. You must bring your own drinking water.
• Mobile Phone Coverage: Patchy, best with Telstra.
• Onsite Public Toilets: No. A portable toilet is essential.
• Rubbish Bins: No. All rubbish must be taken with you.
• Open Fires: Permitted, subject to seasonal fire bans. Use existing fire pits where possible.
• Generator Use: Permitted, with consideration for other campers.
• Number of Sites Available: Numerous undesignated, unpowered sites.
• Essentials to Bring: Drinking water, portable toilet, firewood, rubbish bags, and toilet paper.
• Pet Friendly: Yes, pets are permitted on a leash.
• Fishing: Possible in the Campaspe River.
• Short Walks: Informal walks along the river.

Local Amenities & Attractions

• Local Pubs:
  • Goornong Hotel – approx. 10 km
  • Shamrock Hotel (Elmore) – approx. 12 km
  • Toolleen Hotel – approx. 20 km
• Places to Eat:
  • The Elmore Bakery – approx. 12 km
  • Various cafes and takeaways in Elmore and Goornong.
• Local Attractions:
  • Campaspe River – on-site
  • Historic town of Bendigo – approx. 35 km
  • Heathcote Wine Region – nearby

Nearby Parks & Services

• Nearest Caravan Parks:
  • Elmore Caravan Park – approx. 12 km
  • Gold Nugget Tourist Park (Bendigo) – approx. 30 km
• Nearest Alternate Free Camps:
  • Englishs Bridge Streamside Reserve – approx. 5 km
  • Rocky Crossing Campground – approx. 10 km
• Nearest Dump Points:
  • Elmore Events Centre (check for public access) – approx. 12 km
  • Bendigo Showground – approx. 35 km
• Nearest Petrol Station: Goornong – approx. 10 km or Elmore – approx. 12 km.
• Nearest Drinking Water Resupply: Public taps in Goornong or Elmore.
• Nearest Public Toilets: Goornong Recreation Reserve – approx. 10 km.

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.