Burnt Bridge Camping Ground is a fantastic free campsite for those looking to immerse themselves in the rugged beauty of the Victorian High Country. Located on the scenic Eildon-Jamieson Road, this state forest reserve offers a classic bush camping experience right on the banks of the Goulburn River. While accessible from the main road, the final approach to the camping area can be steep and slippery, making a 4WD vehicle highly recommended, particularly for those towing camper trailers or after wet weather. This slightly more challenging access helps keep the crowds smaller than at some other nearby reserves, often rewarding visitors with a more peaceful and secluded stay. The campground itself is a spacious, shady area with several clearings suitable for a range of setups, from tents to off-road campers.
The pristine Goulburn River is the star attraction, providing an idyllic backdrop for camping and a hub of activity. The clear, cool water is perfect for swimming on hot days, and the area is a well-known hotspot for trout fishing. As a state forest campsite, it is pet-friendly, allowing the whole family to enjoy the adventure. Facilities are basic but functional, with a non-flush toilet available on site. Campers must be fully self-sufficient, bringing their own drinking water and taking all rubbish home with them to preserve the natural environment. Fires are permitted in existing fire pits, subject to seasonal restrictions and Total Fire Ban days, but you’ll need to bring your own firewood. With its beautiful riverside setting and proximity to the historic townships of Jamieson and Kevington, Burnt Bridge is an excellent base for exploring the rich gold rush history and extensive 4WD networks of this iconic region.
Burnt Bridge Camping Ground – VIC Location Map
Burnt Bridge Camping Ground
- Address: Eildon-Jamieson Road, Kevington, VIC 3723, Australia
- GPS Coordinates: -37.34642552209507, 146.06195240987336
Campground Information & Features
- Location: On the Goulburn River, along the Eildon-Jamieson Road near Kevington.
- Site Suitable For: Tents, swags, and high-clearance camper trailers. Caravans may find the access track challenging.
- Road Access: 4WD recommended. The access track off the main road is steep and can be slippery.
- Site Surface: Natural earth and grass, with some shade.
- Camping Permitted: Yes, free of charge.
- Maximum Overnight Stays: Standard state forest limits (28 days) apply.
- Facilities: Non-flush toilets.
- Potable Water: No, all drinking water must be brought in.
- Mobile Phone Coverage: Good Telstra reception is often reported due to its proximity to the main road.
- Onsite Public Toilets: Yes, basic non-flush toilets are available.
- Rubbish Bins: No. A strict carry-in, carry-out policy applies.
- Open Fires: Permitted in existing fire pits, subject to fire restrictions. BYO firewood.
- Generator Use: Permitted, with consideration for other campers.
- Number of Sites Available: A good number of unmarked sites in a spacious area.
- Essentials to Bring: Drinking water, firewood, rubbish bags, toilet paper, recovery gear if wet.
- Pet Friendly: Yes, dogs are permitted but must be kept under control.
- Fishing: Excellent trout fishing in the Goulburn River.
- Short Walks: Informal walks along the river and connecting forest tracks.
Nearby Amenities & Attractions
- Local Pubs:
- Kevington Hotel – Approx. 4 km
- Jamieson Brewery and Grill (Jamieson) – Approx. 6 km
- Courthouse Hotel (Jamieson) – Approx. 6 km
- Places to Eat:
- Kevington Hotel – Approx. 4 km
- Jamieson (Various cafes, pub, brewery) – Approx. 6 km
- Mansfield (Wide range of options) – Approx. 48 km
- Local Attractions:
- Jamieson township and historic walk – Approx. 6 km
- Lake Eildon National Park access – Nearby
- Historic gold mining areas and 4WD tracks
- Nearest Caravan Parks:
- Jamieson Caravan Park – Approx. 6 km
- Mansfield Holiday Park – Approx. 48 km
- Next Free Camps:
- Skipworth Reserve – Approx. 1 km
- Miners Hut Reserve – Approx. 2 km
- Flour Bag Reserve – Approx. 3 km
- Nearest Dump Points:
- Mansfield Public Dump Point – Approx. 48 km
- Nearest Petrol Station:
- Jamieson General Store – Approx. 6 km
- Mansfield (Multiple major stations) – Approx. 48 km
- Drinking Water Resupply:
- Mansfield is the closest town with reliable public taps for filling tanks.
- Nearest Public Toilets (offsite):
- Skipworth Reserve – Approx. 1 km
- Jamieson Township – Approx. 6 km
Seasonal Weather Forecast: Kevington / Jamieson Area
- Summer (Dec-Feb): Days are warm to hot, ideal for river swimming and fishing. Evenings are pleasant. Temperatures range from 15°C to 32°C.
- Autumn (Mar-May): Often considered the best season, with mild, sunny days, cool nights, and beautiful autumn foliage. Temperatures range from 8°C to 23°C.
- Winter (Jun-Aug): Cold, with frequent frosts overnight. Snow is possible on higher peaks nearby. Tracks can be very slippery. Temperatures range from 1°C to 13°C.
- Spring (Sep-Nov): Cool and variable, with a mix of sunshine and rain. The river can be high. A great time to see the landscape green and alive. Temperatures range from 7°C to 21°C.
