Big River Bridge Campground: Free, Pet-Friendly Camping in the High Country

Nestled in a picturesque valley beside the Omeo Highway, Big River Bridge Campground is a premier free camping destination in the heart of the Victorian High Country. This large, open, and grassy reserve sits right on the banks of the beautiful Big River, offering a serene and accessible escape for all types of travellers. Its spacious, level grounds make it exceptionally popular with those in caravans and big rigs, who can easily find a prime riverside spot to set up camp. The campground is a hub of activity for outdoor enthusiasts; anglers are drawn to the promise of trout in the clear river waters, while canoeists and kayakers use it as a perfect launch point to explore the river. Surrounded by the stunning forested landscape of the Big River State Forest, it’s a place where you can truly immerse yourself in nature.

This is a classic free bush camp that combines convenience with a true sense of the high country. The campground provides basic non-flushing toilets, but visitors must be otherwise self-sufficient, bringing their own drinking water and taking all rubbish home. The ease of access directly from the sealed Omeo Highway is a major advantage, eliminating the need for a 4WD that many other high country camps require. Being located in a State Forest, it is also a pet-friendly destination, allowing the whole family to enjoy a holiday together. With numerous undesignated sites, there is plenty of room to spread out and find your own piece of paradise. Whether you’re looking for a convenient overnight stop on the Great Alpine Road, a base for fishing adventures, or a relaxing week-long stay, Big River Bridge Campground is an outstanding choice.

Campground Information

• Name: Big River Bridge Campground
• Address: Omeo Highway, Anglers Rest, Victoria 3898, Australia
• GPS Coordinates: -36.892810361953494, 147.46462048294634
• Website: Managed by Forest Fire Management Victoria (no direct website).

Features & Rules

• Location: Spacious, grassy flats alongside the Big River, just off the Omeo Highway.
• 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.
• Camping Permitted: Yes, in undesignated areas.
• Maximum Overnight Stays: Up to 28 days is generally permitted in State Forests.
• Facilities: Non-flushing toilets.
• 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 existing 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: Yes, dogs are permitted on a leash.
• Fishing: Excellent trout fishing in the Big River.
• Short Walks: Informal walks along the river.

Local Amenities & Attractions

• Local Pubs:
  • Blue Duck Inn (Anglers Rest) – approx. 2 km
  • Golden Age Hotel (Omeo) – approx. 30 km
• Places to Eat:
  • Blue Duck Inn (Anglers Rest) – approx. 2 km
  • Various pubs and cafes in Omeo – approx. 30 km
• Local Attractions:
  • Anglers Rest historic area – approx. 2 km
  • Great Alpine Road scenic drive
  • Omeo Historic Town – approx. 30 km
  • Alpine National Park

Nearby Parks & Services

• Nearest Caravan Parks:
  • Omeo Caravan Park – approx. 30 km
• Nearest Alternate Free Camps:
  • Anglers Rest Campground – approx. 2 km
  • Jokers Flat Campground – approx. 12 km
  • Victoria Falls Campground – approx. 18 km
• Nearest Dump Points:
  • Omeo Public Dump Point – approx. 30 km
  • Dinner Plain Public Dump Point – approx. 55 km
• Nearest Petrol Station: Omeo – approx. 30 km.
• Nearest Drinking Water Resupply: Public taps in Omeo – approx. 30 km.
• Nearest Public Toilets: On-site (basic). Flushing toilets at Anglers Rest or Omeo.

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.