Tucked away in the breathtaking shadows of the Victorian Alpine National Park, Wild Cherry Tree Campsite offers a premier off-grid experience for those seeking to reconnect with nature. Located along the winding Tamboritha Road just north of the iconic Licola Lions Village, this campsite serves as a gateway to the rugged splendour of the Macalister River region. The site is defined by its pristine river frontage, where the crystalline waters of the Macalister flow over ancient river stones, providing a constant, soothing soundtrack to your stay. For adventurous travellers, bushwalkers, and four-wheel-drive enthusiasts, this location represents the ultimate base for exploring the high-altitude vistas and deep valley floor of Central Gippsland.
Licola is a unique destination in regional Victoria, being the only town in the state that is not connected to the mains electricity grid. This sense of independence and self-reliance is mirrored at Wild Cherry Tree Campsite, where the focus is on low-impact, sustainable camping. The grounds are spacious and framed by majestic gum trees and, as the name suggests, pockets of wild cherry trees that add a touch of seasonal colour to the landscape. It is a place where time slows down; there is no mobile reception to distract from the evening campfire or the spectacular display of stars that appears once the sun dips behind the surrounding ridgelines.
As a central hub for High Country exploration, the campsite is unparalleled in its proximity to world-class natural attractions. Whether you are planning an expedition up to the Snowy Plains, a hike through the Bryce’s Gorge, or a technical drive along the mountain spurs, Wild Cherry Tree provides a reliable and serene landing spot. The area is rich with Australian wildlife, from kangaroos grazing in the morning mist to wedge-tailed eagles circling the thermals above. For anglers, the river offers a challenging but rewarding environment for fly fishing, with trout often found in the deeper pools and shaded bends near the campsite.
Choosing to stay at Wild Cherry Tree Campsite means embracing the authentic Australian bush. The campsite is meticulously maintained by those who value the preservation of the Gippsland wilderness, ensuring that every visitor can enjoy a clean and safe environment. While the facilities are designed to be simple and unobtrusive, they provide the necessary essentials for a comfortable stay in a remote setting. Experience a holiday where the modern world feels thousands of kilometres away, and the only schedule is the rise and fall of the sun. Discover why Wild Cherry Tree is considered a sanctuary for those who appreciate the raw, unrefined beauty of the Victorian High Country.
Wild Cherry Tree Campsite
- Address: 763 Tamboritha Rd, Licola VIC 3858, Australia
- GPS Coordinates: -37.55509762639285, 146.61842638108914
Site Details & Suitability
- Location: Riverside frontage on the Macalister River, Licola Valley.
- Site Suitable For: Camper Trailers, Tents, Off-road Caravans, and 4WD Motorhomes.
- Road Access: Sealed access to Licola; Tamboritha Road is gravel beyond the town. Suitable for most vehicles in dry weather, though 4WD is recommended for exploring further.
- Site Surface: Level grass and river-silt soil; natural bush setting.
Features & Facilities
- Basic drop toilet facilities available.
- Designated fire pits for evening campfires (seasonal).
- Direct river access for swimming and cooling off.
- Large, unallocated sites for maximum privacy.
- Picnic tables located in shaded areas.
- Pet-friendly layout with ample space.
Stay Essentials
- Essentials to Bring: All drinking water, rubbish bags (carry-in, carry-out), first aid kit, snake gaiters for hiking, and solar power or batteries (no mains power).
- Pet Friendly: Yes, pets are welcome (must be kept under control due to local wildlife).
- Fishing: Excellent fly fishing in the Macalister River (Trout and Blackfish).
- Short Walks: River bank trail and proximity to the Licola Village walk.
Local Amenities
- Local Pubs:
- Heyfield Railway Hotel (Approx 55km)
- Maffra Hotel (Approx 72km)
- Cricket Club Hotel, Heyfield (Approx 55km)
- Places to Eat:
- Licola General Store (Approx 3.5km)
- Heyfield Bakery (Approx 55km)
- Timberline Cafe, Heyfield (Approx 55km)
- Local Attractions:
- Macalister River (Approx 0.1km)
- Licola Lions Village (Approx 3.5km)
- Bennison Lookout (Approx 18km)
- Bryce's Gorge & Waterfall (Approx 42km)
- Alpine National Park Entry (Approx 15km)
- Nearest Caravan Parks:
- Licola Lions Village (Approx 3.5km)
- Heyfield Memorial Park (Approx 55km)
- Nearest Free Camps:
- Breakfast Creek (Approx 12km)
- Horseyard Flat (Approx 45km)
- Dump Points:
- Licola Lions Village (Approx 3.5km - check availability)
- Heyfield Lions Park (Approx 55km)
- Petrol Stations:
- Licola General Store (Approx 3.5km - limited hours)
- Caltex Heyfield (Approx 55km)
- Drinking Water Resupply:
- Licola General Store (Bottled water - Approx 3.5km)
- Heyfield Public Tap (Approx 55km)
- Public Toilets:
- On-site at Wild Cherry Tree (0km)
- Licola Town Centre Toilets (Approx 3.5km)
Seasonal Weather Forecast: Licola & Macalister Valley
- Summer (Dec-Feb): Warm days and cool nights. Highs of 25°C–32°C. River swimming is at its best.
- Autumn (Mar-May): Crisp, golden days and cold nights. Highs of 14°C–20°C. Ideal for photography and hiking.
- Winter (Jun-Aug): Very cold and often damp. Highs of 8°C–13°C. Snow possible on nearby peaks; best for experienced winter campers.
- Spring (Sep-Nov): Fresh and green with high river flows. Highs of 16°C–22°C. Excellent for wildflower spotting.
