Castlemaine Central Cabin and Van Park
Discover the Heart of the Goldfields
Nestled in the heart of Victoria’s historic Goldfields region, the Castlemaine Central Cabin and Van Park offers a perfect blend of convenience and peaceful retreat. This park is an ideal base for travellers eager to explore Castlemaine’s rich history, its thriving arts and culture scene, and the stunning natural landscapes of the surrounding area. Unlike larger, more bustling parks, Castlemaine Central provides a quiet, friendly atmosphere that makes you feel right at home from the moment you arrive. Its central location means you can easily leave your caravan or cabin and stroll into town to discover local cafes, unique shops, and grand heritage buildings.
The town of Castlemaine itself is a living museum, boasting a well-preserved streetscape that harks back to the gold rush era. Visitors can meander through the historic streets, visit the Castlemaine Art Gallery and Historical Museum, or hop on the Victorian Goldfields Railway for a scenic trip to Maldon. The park is a great launchpad for these adventures, offering a comfortable and secure place to return to each evening. The park is known for its well-maintained facilities and clean amenities, ensuring a pleasant stay whether you’re passing through or settling in for a longer period. While the number of sites is limited, this contributes to the park’s cosy and intimate feel, making it a popular choice for those seeking a quiet getaway rather than a large-scale holiday park experience.
For outdoor enthusiasts, the area is rich with walking and cycling trails, including sections of the Goldfields Track. You can also explore the magnificent Castlemaine Botanical Gardens or take a short drive to Mount Alexander for spectacular panoramic views. The park’s pet-friendly policy (on application) allows you to bring your furry companion along to share in the adventure. From its central location to its tranquil environment, the Castlemaine Central Cabin and Van Park is more than just a place to stay—it’s a gateway to an unforgettable experience in one of Victoria’s most charming and historically significant regions.
Contact Information
Address: 339 Barker Street, Castlemaine VIC 3450, Australia
Phone: (03) 5472 2160
Email: manager@cabinscastlemaine.com
Website: www.castlemaine-accommodation.com.au
GPS Coordinates: -37.06844412339939, 144.2160324798386
Park Details
Star Rating:
(4.2 / 5)
Site Surface: Primarily gravel and grass.
Suitable For: Caravans, camper trailers, and cabin stays. Limited sites available, booking is essential.
Number of Sites: The park has a limited number of powered and unpowered caravan/van sites, in addition to cabins. Call for availability.
Pet Friendly: Yes, pets are permitted on application. Please confirm with the park at the time of booking.
Mobile Phone Coverage: Coverage for most major providers (Telstra, Optus, Vodafone) is generally good in the Castlemaine area, but can vary. Please check with your provider.
Generator Use: Please contact the park directly to confirm their policy on generator use. Generators are often restricted to certain times or not permitted.
Open Fires: Open fires are typically not permitted on individual sites. Please use designated communal fire pits or barbecues where available. Fire restrictions apply in the region during summer months.
Park Features & Facilities
- Powered and Unpowered Sites for Caravans & Vans
- Self-contained Cabin Accommodation
- Camp Kitchen
- Games Room
- Clean and Modern Amenities Block
- Barbecue Facilities
Essentials to Bring
To ensure you have a comfortable stay, consider packing the following:
- Warm clothing, especially for cool nights and winter months
- Insect repellent and sunscreen
- Appropriate footwear for walking and hiking
- Basic cooking supplies if not staying in a fully self-contained cabin
- A torch or headlamp for navigating at night
Local Attractions & Short Walks
- The Mill Castlemaine: A vibrant creative hub with markets, eateries, and a brewery. Approx. 1 km.
- Castlemaine Botanical Gardens: A peaceful escape with a beautiful lake and historic trees. Approx. 1.2 km.
- Victorian Goldfields Railway: Take a historic steam train ride to the town of Maldon. Approx. 1.5 km.
- Buda Historic Home and Garden: A stunning 19th-century gold rush-era home and gardens. Approx. 2.5 km.
- Theatre Royal: Australia’s oldest continually operating theatre, now a cinema and live music venue. Approx. 1 km.
Fishing
Fishing is possible in local waterways such as the Loddon River and Expedition Pass Reservoir. Check local regulations and licensing requirements before you go.
Food & Drink
- Pubs: The Northern Arts Hotel and The Railway Hotel are within a short walk or drive, offering great food and a classic pub atmosphere.
- Places to Eat: Castlemaine has a wide variety of dining options, from gourmet cafes to traditional bakeries and pizzerias like Bella Fresca Pizzeria. Many are located within a short walk of the park.
Nearby Alternative Caravan Parks
- BIG4 Castlemaine Gardens Holiday Park: Approx. 1.2 km
- Maldon Caravan Park: Approx. 19.2 km
- Newstead Racecourse & Recreation Reserve: Approx. 18.9 km
Nearby Free Camps & Dump Points
- Free Camps: Jessie Kennedy Reserve (approx. 7.4 km), Chokem Flat (approx. 10.6 km), and Oak Forest Bush Camp (approx. 11.6 km).
- Dump Points: Public dump points can be found at Harcourt (approx. 10 km), Newstead Racecourse (approx. 18.9 km), and Maldon Caravan Park (approx. 19.2 km).
Seasonal Weather Forecast
- Summer (Dec-Feb): Warm and mostly clear with average daily highs of 28°C. Can experience hot days over 35°C.
- Autumn (Mar-May): Mild and pleasant with average daily highs of 15-25°C. The weather becomes cooler and cloudier as the season progresses.
- Winter (Jun-Aug): Cold, windy, and partly cloudy. Average daily highs are around 12-13°C with nights dropping to around 3-5°C. Frost is common.
- Spring (Sep-Nov): Mild and warming up. Average daily highs range from 15-22°C. A great time to visit for wildflowers and a generally clear sky.
Location Map