Cockatoo Camp 9 Free Camping Murray River Regional Park Victoria
Cockatoo Camp 9, situated along the scenic Tamboritha Road just north of Licola, offers an authentic Australian bush camping experience within the vast Alpine National Park. This site is part of the iconic Wellington River camping corridor, where the crystal-clear waters of the river provide a constant soundtrack to your stay. For those seeking a retreat from the hustle and bustle of city life, this location serves as a premier gateway to the Gippsland High Country. The area is renowned for its rugged beauty, featuring ancient rock formations and a canopy of peppermint and manna gums that provide ample shade for campers.
Camping at Cockatoo Camp 9 is a favourite for 4WD enthusiasts and families alike. The site provides easy access to the Wellington River, making it a perfect spot for cooling off during the height of a Victorian summer or testing your luck with a fishing rod. Unlike the more developed caravan parks in larger towns, the Wellington River campsites offer a dispersed, "back-to-basics" feel that encourages a deeper connection with nature. Whether you are using the site as a base camp for exploring the nearby Alpine National Park or simply enjoying a quiet weekend by the fire, the atmosphere is one of complete serenity.
The surrounding terrain is diverse, offering everything from leisurely riverside strolls to challenging climbs in the nearby mountains. Being located on the edge of the wilderness, visitors often encounter local wildlife, including wombats, wallabies, and a variety of native birdlife. It is important to remember that this is a remote environment; self-sufficiency is key to a successful trip. The drive from the nearest major towns is spectacular, winding through the rolling hills of Gippsland before entering the dramatic gorges of the Macalister and Wellington River systems. Cockatoo Camp 9 stands as a testament to the enduring appeal of the Victorian High Country, providing a rugged yet accessible escape for all.
Cockatoo Camp 9 (Wellington River)
- Address: Tamboritha Road, Licola, VIC 3858
- Website: parks.vic.gov.au
- GPS Coordinates: -37.52316384071486, 146.61418493264316
Site Specifications & Features
- Location: Riverside flats in the Wellington River valley, Alpine National Park.
- Site Suitable For: Camper trailers, Tents, Off-road caravans, and 4WD vehicles.
- Road Access: Sealed until Licola, thereafter unsealed gravel road (Tamboritha Rd); generally 2WD accessible but 4WD recommended for deeper exploration.
- Site Surface: Grassy areas with some gravel/dirt patches.
- Available Facilities: Pit toilets (shared across camp areas), established fire pits.
- Essentials to Bring: Drinking water (none available on-site), firewood, rubbish bags (carry in/carry out), first aid kit, fuel.
- Pet Friendly: No (Dogs are not permitted in this section of the Alpine National Park).
- Fishing: Yes - Rainbow and Brown Trout commonly found in the Wellington River.
- Short Walks: Wellington River Trail, Riverside track to adjacent campsites (Camps 1-13).
Local Amenities & Services
- Local Pubs:
- Railway Hotel Heyfield (approx 65km)
- The Briagolong Hotel (approx 78km)
- Avon Hotel, Stratford (approx 95km)
- Places to Eat:
- Licola General Store - Snacks/Basic meals (approx 10km)
- Heyfield Bakery & Cafes (approx 65km)
- Maffra Food Precinct (approx 80km)
- Local Attractions:
- Alpine National Park - Gateway to the High Country (approx 0km)
- Licola Wilderness Village (approx 10km)
- Tali Karng "The Hidden Lake" - Via hiking tracks (approx 20km to trailhead)
- Bryce's Gorge & Waterfalls (approx 55km via Tamboritha Rd)
- Mount Howitt / Crosscut Saw (approx 65km via 4WD tracks)
- Nearest Caravan Parks:
- Licola Caravan Park (approx 10km)
- Lake Glenmaggie Caravan Park (approx 55km)
- Nearest Free Camps:
- Wellington River Camps 1-8 & 10-12 (approx 1-5km)
- Cheyne's Bridge Camping Area (approx 45km)
- Nearest Dump Points:
- Licola Road, Glenmaggie (approx 55km)
- Sale Recreation Reserve (approx 110km)
- Nearest Petrol Stations:
- Licola General Store - Limited/Emergency only (approx 10km)
- Heyfield BP / Shell (approx 65km)
- Drinking Water Resupply:
- Licola General Store (approx 10km)
- Heyfield Town Centre (approx 65km)
- Public Toilets:
- Licola Township Public Toilets (approx 10km)
- Cheyne's Bridge Picnic Area (approx 45km)
Seasonal Weather Forecast & Trends
Weather in the Alpine region can be highly unpredictable. Please check current BoM alerts before travel.
- Summer (Dec - Feb): Warm to very hot days (25°C to 38°C). River is popular for swimming. High fire danger period.
- Autumn (Mar - May): Mild days and cool nights. Beautiful foliage colours in nearby valleys. Stable weather for hiking.
- Winter (Jun - Aug): Cold and wet (5°C to 12°C). Frosts are common. Snow occurs on the nearby high plains (Tamboritha/Mount Howitt).
- Spring (Sep - Nov): Variable rainfall. River levels may rise due to snowmelt. Cool to mild temperatures.
Camping Fees
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