Escape to the natural beauty of the upper King Valley at King River Camp, a serene bush camping area nestled alongside the picturesque King River near Cheshunt, Victoria. This campground offers a quintessential Australian bush experience, providing a peaceful retreat for nature lovers, anglers, and those seeking a base to explore the surrounding Alpine foothills and renowned King Valley wine region. Set amongst native trees, the camp provides direct access to the river, known for its trout fishing and refreshing swimming holes in warmer months. It’s an ideal spot for visitors looking for a simpler, back-to-basics camping experience, away from crowds and focused on enjoying the tranquillity of the riverside environment. The sounds of the flowing river and local birdlife create a relaxing soundtrack for your stay.
King River Camp is typically a basic campground, well-suited for tents, camper trailers, and potentially small, off-road caravans or motorhomes, depending on access conditions. Sites are generally informal, unpowered, and located on grassy or dirt surfaces amongst the trees. Visitors should anticipate limited facilities, characteristic of state forest or reserve camping. You’ll likely find basic amenities such as pit or composting toilets and potentially wood-fired BBQs or designated fire pits for campfires (subject to seasonal fire restrictions). It’s crucial for campers to be largely self-sufficient, bringing their own drinking water, cooking equipment, and firewood. Mobile phone reception is often limited or non-existent in this area, offering a true chance to disconnect. Remember to practice minimal impact camping and take all rubbish out with you to preserve the natural beauty of the site.
The location serves as an excellent base for exploring the upper King Valley and nearby attractions. The King River itself is perfect for fishing, kayaking, or simply relaxing by the water’s edge. A short drive away is Lake William Hovell, offering boating, fishing, and picnic facilities amidst stunning mountain scenery. Explore the renowned King Valley wineries scattered between Cheshunt, Whitfield, and Moyhu, known for their Italian varietals. For hikers and sightseers, Paradise Falls offers a beautiful seasonal waterfall walk, and Powers Lookout provides panoramic views over the valley and Alpine National Park. Whether you’re casting a line, sipping local Prosecco, or tackling a scenic trail, King River Camp offers a peaceful riverside haven.
King River Camp – VIC Location Map
King River Camp
- Address: Approx. 953 Upper King River Rd, Cheshunt VIC 3678 (Located within a State Forest or Reserve area along the river)
- Website: kingrivercamp.org.au
- GPS Coordinates: -36.8608, 146.37805
Site Details
- Location: Riverside bush setting along the Upper King River Rd, south of Cheshunt.
- Site Suitable For: Tents, camper trailers, swags, potentially small off-road caravans/RVs (access dependent).
- Road Access: Via Upper King River Road, which is likely unsealed and gravel in sections past Cheshunt. Condition can vary with weather; may not be suitable for large 2WD vehicles or large caravans after heavy rain. 4WD may be recommended in wet conditions.
- Site Surface: Natural grass/dirt surface amongst trees.
Facilities and Features
- Picnic Tables: Possibly available at some spots, but not guaranteed at all informal sites.
- Potable Water: No, unlikely. BYO drinking water is essential. River water requires treatment before consumption.
- Mobile Phone Coverage: Unlikely. Expect very limited to no reception.
- TV Reception: No, highly unlikely.
- BBQ’s: Possibly basic wood BBQs or designated fire pits. Check local signage. BYO portable cooker recommended.
- Onsite Public Toilets: Yes, likely basic long-drop or composting toilets available.
- Ullage (Dump Point): No, not available at this type of basic camp. Nearest points in larger towns.
- Drive Through Sites: No, generally informal camping areas.
- Rubbish Bins: No, unlikely. Carry-in, carry-out policy applies.
- Open Fires: Generally permitted seasonally in designated fire pits or existing fireplaces, subject to local fire regulations and Total Fire Ban days. Check Parks Victoria/FFMVic website for current restrictions. BYO firewood (collecting firewood from the surrounding area is often prohibited).
- Generator Use: May be permitted during certain hours, but generally discouraged in quiet bush camps. Check any local signage or regulations.
- Essentials to Bring: Drinking water, firewood (if permitted), rubbish bags, toilet paper, insect repellent, cooking equipment, warm clothing (evenings can be cool).
- Pet Friendly: Yes, generally permitted in State Forests/Reserves on lead, but confirm specific regulations for the area (e.g., check Parks Vic website). Not permitted in National Parks.
- Fishing: Yes, fishing in the King River (trout, potentially other species). Victorian fishing licence required.
- Short Walks: Yes, informal walks along the river bank and exploring the immediate bushland. Nearby formal trails accessible by car.
Local Amenities
Pubs
- Mountain View Hotel (Whitfield): (Approx. 20 km) – Popular King Valley pub with food and accommodation.
- Cheshunt Hotel/Store: (Approx. 5-10 km) – May offer basic drinks/counter meals (check current status).
- Moyhu Hotel (Moyhu): (Approx. 35 km) – Pub in another nearby township.
Places to Eat
- Mountain View Hotel (Whitfield): (Approx. 20 km) – Pub meals.
- Dal Zotto Wines Trattoria (Whitfield): (Approx. 20 km) – Winery restaurant (bookings recommended).
- King Valley Cafe & Restaurant (Whitfield): (Approx. 20 km) – Cafe style meals.
- Whitty Cafe (Whitfield): (Approx. 20 km) – Cafe.
- The Oven @ Cheshunt: (Approx. 5-10 km) – Pizzeria/cafe (check opening hours).
Local Attractions
- King River: (Adjacent) – Fishing, swimming, kayaking, relaxing.
- Lake William Hovell: (Approx. 10 km South) – Boating, fishing, picnics, scenic views.
- King Valley Wineries: (Various locations 10-35 km North) – Cellar doors (e.g., Dal Zotto, Pizzini, Chrismont, Sam Miranda).
- Paradise Falls: (Approx. 25 km via Cheshunt) – Scenic waterfall walk (seasonal flow).
- Powers Lookout: (Approx. 40 km via Whitfield) – Historic site with stunning views over the King Valley and Alpine region.
Nearest Caravan Parks
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- Gentle Annie Caravan Park (Whitfield): (Approx. 20 km) – Commercial park with full facilities.
- Valley View Caravan Park (Whitfield): (Approx. 20 km) – Commercial park with facilities.
Nearest Free Camps
- Lake William Hovell Camping Areas: (Approx. 10 km South) – Basic free camping areas around the lake foreshore (check Parks Vic for specific locations/rules).
- Other King River Campsites: (Varies) – Other informal spots may exist along Upper King River Rd or access tracks (check suitability and legality).
Nearest Dump Points
- Whitfield Public Dump Point: (Approx. 20 km) – Usually located near public toilets or recreation reserve.
- Wangaratta Public Dump Point: (Approx. 70 km) – Available in the major regional city.
Nearest Petrol Stations
- Whitfield General Store: (Approx. 20 km) – Fuel available.
- Moyhu General Store/Service Station: (Approx. 35 km) – Fuel potentially available.
- Wangaratta Service Stations: (Approx. 70 km) – Multiple major options.
Nearest Drinking Water Resupply
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- Whitfield: (Approx. 20 km) – Public taps likely available at parks or public toilets.
- Wangaratta: (Approx. 70 km) – Numerous reliable sources.
Nearest Public Toilets
- Onsite: Basic toilets available at the camp area.
- Lake William Hovell: (Approx. 10 km) – Toilets available at picnic/boat ramp areas.
- Cheshunt/Whitfield Townships: (Approx. 5-20 km) – Public toilets available in the towns.
Seasonal Weather Forecast: Upper King Valley (Cheshunt/Whitfield Area)
Summer (December – February)
- Warm to hot days, mild to