Doctors Creek Reserve: Free, Pet-Friendly Camping in the High Country

Nestled in the heart of the Victorian High Country’s historic goldfields, Doctors Creek Reserve is a beautiful and serene free campground perfect for a classic bush getaway. Located just south of Jamieson and the iconic Kevington Hotel, this spacious reserve offers campers a prime spot on the grassy flats beside the Goulburn River. Surrounded by the steep, forested hills of the Upper Goulburn Valley, it’s an idyllic location to pitch a tent, park a camper trailer, or set up your caravan. The area is rich in history, with remnants of the gold rush era scattered throughout the surrounding landscape, offering a tangible connection to the region’s pioneering past.

The campground is a favourite for its simplicity and stunning natural setting. The Goulburn River, just metres from the campsites, is perfect for a refreshing swim on a hot day, a leisurely kayak, or trying your luck catching a trout. As a State Forest campground, Doctors Creek is pet-friendly, making it an ideal destination for the whole family, including your four-legged members. The facilities are basic, with non-flushing toilets available, so campers must be self-sufficient with their own drinking water and be prepared to take all rubbish home. The easy 2WD access directly off the Mansfield-Woods Point Road makes it a convenient choice for all vehicle types. For those seeking a peaceful, budget-friendly, and scenic base to explore the wonders of the High Country, Doctors Creek Reserve is a fantastic choice.

Campground Information

• Name: Doctors Creek Reserve
• Address: Mansfield-Woods Point Road, Kevington, Victoria 3723, Australia
• GPS Coordinates: -37.332438808115874, 146.13136266561415
• Website: Managed by Forest Fire Management Victoria (no direct website).

Features & Rules

• Location: Grassy reserve on the Goulburn River in the Upper Goulburn Historic Area.
• Site Suitable For: Tents, camper trailers, and caravans.
• Road Access: Excellent 2WD access from the sealed Mansfield-Woods Point Road.
• Site Surface: Mostly level grass and natural earth.
• Camping Permitted: Yes, free camping is permitted.
• Maximum Overnight Stays: Up to 28 days.
• Facilities: Non-flushing toilets and fire pits.
• 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 provided 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, and toilet paper.
• Pet Friendly: Yes, dogs are permitted on a leash.
• Fishing: Excellent trout fishing in the Goulburn River.
• Short Walks: Informal walks along the riverbank.

Local Amenities & Attractions

• Local Pubs:
  • Kevington Hotel – approx. 3 km
  • Courthouse Hotel (Jamieson) – approx. 20 km
  • Jamieson Brewery and Grill – approx. 20 km
• Places to Eat:
  • Kevington Hotel – approx. 3 km
  • Various cafes and eateries in Jamieson – approx. 20 km
• Local Attractions:
  • Goulburn River and historic gold mining areas
  • Historic town of Jamieson – approx. 20 km
  • Lake Eildon National Park

Nearby Parks & Services

• Nearest Caravan Parks:
  • Jamieson Caravan Park – approx. 20 km
  • Howqua Valley Holiday Park – approx. 42 km
• Nearest Alternate Free Camps:
  • Skipworth Reserve – approx. 2 km
  • Flour Bag Reserve – approx. 6 km
• Nearest Dump Points:
  • Mansfield Public Dump Point (near Visitor Information Centre) – approx. 48 km
• Nearest Petrol Station: Jamieson – approx. 20 km.
• Nearest Drinking Water Resupply: Public taps in Jamieson – approx. 20 km.
• Nearest Public Toilets: On-site (basic). Flushing toilets in Jamieson.

Seasonal Weather Forecast

• Summer (Dec-Feb): Warm to hot days with cool mountain nights. Perfect for swimming. Average maximum temperatures are around 28°C.
• Autumn (Mar-May): Mild, sunny days and crisp nights with stunning autumn colours. Average maximums range from 16°C to 25°C.
• Winter (Jun-Aug): Cold, with frosty nights and potential for snow on surrounding peaks. Roads can be slippery. Average maximums are around 12°C to 14°C.
• Spring (Sep-Nov): Cool and becoming milder. The river can be high from snowmelt. Average maximums range from 16°C to 23°C.