CRB Campground: Free Riverside Camping in Victoria’s High Country
Tucked away on the banks of the Cobungra River, CRB Campground is a charming and free camping spot that offers an authentic High Country experience. Located in the renowned Anglers Rest area, right off the scenic Omeo Highway, this campground provides a peaceful and accessible retreat for nature lovers. The lush, grassy sites are perfect for setting up a tent or a small camper trailer, with the crystal-clear river just metres away. It’s an idyllic location for those looking to escape the crowds and enjoy the simple pleasures of the bush. The river provides excellent opportunities for trout fishing, and its refreshing waters are perfect for a swim on a warm day. Surrounded by the dense forests of the Alpine National Park, the campground is a haven for wildlife and offers a true sense of tranquility.
As a free campground in a national park, CRB is suited for self-sufficient campers. It provides basic amenities, including a non-flushing toilet and established fire pits, but visitors must bring their own drinking water and take all their rubbish home with them. Its location is incredibly convenient, being just a stone’s throw from the historic Blue Duck Inn, where campers can enjoy a classic pub meal or a refreshing drink after a day of exploring. The easy 2WD access from the main road makes it a great option for all types of vehicles. It is important to remember that as part of the Alpine National Park, **pets are strictly prohibited** to protect the native flora and fauna. For a relaxing, scenic, and budget-friendly stay in one of Victoria’s most beautiful regions, CRB Campground is a fantastic choice.
Campground Information
- Name: CRB Campground
- Address: Omeo Highway, Anglers Rest, Victoria 3898, Australia
- GPS Coordinates: Latitude: -36.9983, Longitude: 147.4953
- Website: Managed by Parks Victoria (no direct website for the campground).
Features & Rules
- Location: Grassy riverside flats on the Cobungra River.
- Site Suitable For: Tents, swags, and small camper trailers.
- Road Access: Excellent 2WD access directly from the sealed Omeo Highway.
- Site Surface: Grass and natural earth.
- Camping Permitted: Yes, in undesignated areas.
- Maximum Overnight Stays: No specified limit.
- Facilities: Non-flushing toilet, fire pits.
- Potable Water: No. You must bring your own drinking water.
- Mobile Phone Coverage: Very limited to non-existent.
- Onsite Public Toilets: Yes, a basic non-flushing toilet is available.
- Rubbish Bins: No. All rubbish must be taken with you.
- Open Fires: Permitted in provided fire pits, subject to seasonal fire bans.
- Generator Use: Permitted, with consideration for other campers.
- Number of Sites Available: Several undesignated, unpowered sites.
- Essentials to Bring: Drinking water, firewood, rubbish bags, toilet paper.
- Pet Friendly: No, pets are not permitted in the Alpine National Park.
- Fishing: Excellent trout fishing in the Cobungra River.
- Short Walks: Informal walks along the river.
Local Amenities & Attractions
- Local Pubs:
- Blue Duck Inn (Anglers Rest) – approx. 1 km
- Golden Age Hotel (Omeo) – approx. 27 km
- Places to Eat:
- Blue Duck Inn (Anglers Rest) – approx. 1 km
- Various pubs and cafes in Omeo – approx. 27 km
- Local Attractions:
- Historic Blue Duck Inn – approx. 1 km
- Great Alpine Road scenic drive
- Omeo Historic Town – approx. 27 km
Nearby Parks & Services
- Nearest Caravan Parks:
- Omeo Caravan Park – approx. 27 km
- Nearest Alternate Free Camps:
- Anglers Rest Campground – approx. 1 km
- Big River Bridge Campground – approx. 3 km
- Jokers Flat Campground – approx. 13 km
- Nearest Dump Points:
- Omeo Public Dump Point – approx. 27 km
- Dinner Plain Public Dump Point – approx. 52 km
- Nearest Petrol Station: Omeo – approx. 27 km.
- Nearest Drinking Water Resupply: Public taps in Omeo – approx. 27 km.
- Nearest Public Toilets: On-site (basic). Flushing toilets at Anglers Rest public area.
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.