Headrace Flat is another gem in the string of superb free campgrounds scattered along the Buckland River in Victoria’s spectacular High Country. This charming campsite offers a classic riverside bush camping experience, blending easy accessibility with a genuine sense of being away from it all. Positioned on a picturesque grassy flat, the campground provides ample space for campers to find their own private nook by the water’s edge, shaded by towering native gums. It’s a popular spot for those wanting to soak up the alpine atmosphere without needing a high-performance 4WD.

The tranquil Buckland River is the centrepiece of life at Headrace Flat. Its clear, cool waters are perfect for a refreshing swim on a warm day, floating lazily on an inflatable, or trying to lure a local trout with a fishing line. The gentle sounds of the river create a constant, calming soundtrack for your stay. The surrounding state forest is steeped in the history of the 19th-century gold rush, and remnants of old water races and mining operations can still be found by observant explorers. The area is a haven for wildlife, with kangaroos, wallabies, and a vast array of birdlife frequently spotted, especially in the quiet hours of dawn and dusk.

As a primitive campsite, Headrace Flat requires campers to be self-sufficient. There are no toilets, bins, or drinking water provided, reinforcing the need for a ‘leave no trace’ approach to protect this pristine environment. All rubbish must be taken out, and campers should have their own portable toilet system. The campsite’s accessibility via the unsealed Buckland Valley Road makes it a fantastic option for families and groups with 2WD vehicles (in dry conditions), though the road can be corrugated. For a peaceful, back-to-basics camping trip focused on nature and relaxation, Headrace Flat is an outstanding choice.

Campsite Information

• Site Suitable For: Tents, swags, camper trailers, caravans, motorhomes.
• Road Access: Unsealed road. Generally accessible by 2WD vehicles in dry conditions, but can be corrugated and slippery when wet.
• Site Surface: Grass and dirt.
• Camping Permitted: Yes, free camping is permitted.
• Maximum Overnight Stays: No specified limit.
• Facilities: None. This is a primitive campsite.
• Potable Water: No. Bring all your own drinking water.
• Mobile Phone Coverage: Very limited to none. Unreliable.
• TV Reception: None.
• Onsite Public Toilets: No. A portable toilet is essential.
• Rubbish Bins: No. You must take all rubbish out with you.
• Open Fires: Permitted in existing fire pits, subject to seasonal fire restrictions and Total Fire Bans. Bring your own firewood.
• Generator Use: Permitted, but please be considerate of other campers.
• Number of Sites Available: Large open area with many informal sites.
• Essentials to Bring: Portable toilet, drinking water, rubbish bags, firewood, insect repellent, sun protection, first-aid kit.
• Pet Friendly: Yes, dogs are permitted on-leash in Victorian State Forests.

Local Area & Amenities

• Fishing: Yes, the Buckland River is known for trout fishing. A Victorian Fishing Licence is required.
• Short Walks: Informal walks along the river and exploring the surrounding state forest.
• Local Pubs:
  • Punkah Pub (Porepunkah): ~35 km
  • Bright Brewery (Bright): ~40 km
  • Wandi Pub (Wandiligong): ~45 km
• Places to Eat:
  • Porepunkah (Pub, cafes, bakery): ~35 km
  • Bright (Extensive range of pubs, restaurants, cafes): ~40 km
• Local Attractions:
  • The tourist town of Bright: ~40 km
  • Mount Buffalo National Park: ~45 km (to entrance)
  • Gateway to more remote 4WD tracks further up the valley.
• Nearest Caravan Parks:
  • Porepunkah Bridge Holiday Park: ~35 km
  • Multiple caravan parks in Bright: ~40 km
• Next Free Camps:
  • Other sites along the Buckland Valley Road (e.g., Shippens Flat, New Chum Flat).
• Nearest Dump Points:
  • Bright (Centenary Park): ~40 km
  • Myrtleford (Showgrounds): ~60 km
• Nearest Petrol Station: Porepunkah (~35 km) and Bright (~40 km).
• Drinking Water Resupply: Public taps are available in Porepunkah and Bright.
• Public Toilets: Located in Porepunkah and Bright town centres.

Seasonal Weather Forecast

• Summer (Dec-Feb): Days are typically warm to hot, with cool nights. Perfect weather for enjoying the river. Average temperatures: 12°C to 28°C.
• Autumn (Mar-May): Mild, pleasant days and cool, crisp nights. The valley is famous for its stunning autumn colours. Average temperatures: 5°C to 20°C.
• Winter (Jun-Aug): Cold days with nights often dropping below freezing. Frost is common, and snow is possible. Average temperatures: 0°C to 12°C.
• Spring (Sep-Nov): Cool and variable weather. The river can be high and very cold from snowmelt. Average temperatures: 4°C to 18°C.