For a quintessential, off-grid bush camping experience, Clarke’s Campground (often known as Clarke’s Bend) is a magnificent free camping destination nestled on the banks of the Goulburn River. Located within the serene and beautiful Lower Goulburn National Park, this is a paradise for fully self-sufficient travellers, anglers, and kayakers seeking solitude and a deep connection with nature. The campground is a classic, undeveloped riverside reserve, offering a large, dispersed camping area shaded by a majestic canopy of ancient river red gums. The main appeal is the freedom to find your own secluded spot along the riverbank, set up camp, and simply unwind to the sounds of the Australian bush. It’s an ideal location for those with off-road capable setups, including tents, swags, and rugged camper trailers.
The Goulburn River is the lifeblood of this location, providing the stunning backdrop and the primary source of recreation. The deep, slow-moving waters are a renowned hotspot for fishing, attracting anglers in pursuit of the legendary Murray Cod and Golden Perch. The calm river is also perfect for launching a kayak or canoe directly from your campsite to explore the pristine riverine environment and its abundant birdlife. As a true bush camp, there are no facilities, which is a key part of its charm for those looking to escape the crowds. This requires campers to be completely self-reliant and to adhere to a strict leave-no-trace ethic. While it feels wonderfully remote, the friendly country town of Nathalia is just a short drive away for essential supplies and a pub meal. For an authentic, budget-free adventure that captures the timeless spirit of camping on a classic Australian river, Clarke’s Campground is a top-tier choice for the well-prepared adventurer.
Clarke’s Campground – VIC Location Map
Clarke’s Campground
- Address: Yalca VIC 3637 (Accessed via Brennans Rd and bush tracks)
- GPS: -36.1750, 145.2450
- Website: This is a free campground in a National Park. Information is available on the Parks Victoria website.
Site Details
- Location: Remote riverside bush camp in the Lower Goulburn National Park.
- Site Suitable For: Tents, Swags, and rugged Off-road Camper Trailers/Caravans.
- Road Access: Unsealed dirt tracks. Dry weather access only. 4WD is highly recommended. Tracks can be impassable when wet.
- Site Surface: Natural dirt and grass base.
- Camping Permitted: Yes, free dispersed camping.
- Maximum Overnight Stays: Please observe Parks Victoria guidelines.
- Facilities: None.
- Potable Water: No. You must bring all your own water.
- Mobile Phone Coverage: Very poor to non-existent.
- TV Reception: Unlikely.
- Onsite Public Toilets: No. You must be fully self-contained and have your own toilet.
- Rubbish Bins: No. This is a strict carry-in, carry-out site.
- Open Fires: Permitted in contained fire pits, subject to seasonal fire restrictions. BYO firewood from outside the park.
- Generator Use: Permitted, but be considerate of the natural environment.
- Number of Sites Available: Large, unmarked area with many dispersed sites.
- Essentials to Bring: Your own toilet, all drinking water, firewood, rubbish bags, insect repellent, fishing gear.
- Pet Friendly: No. Pets are not permitted in Lower Goulburn National Park.
Activities
- Fishing: Premier location for Murray Cod and Golden Perch (Yellowbelly).
- Short Walks: Enjoy exploring the riverbanks and the surrounding Red Gum forest.
- Kayaking & Canoeing: Ideal for launching a paddlecraft directly from your campsite.
Local Amenities
- Local Pubs:
- Nathalia Hotel – Approx. 15 km
- Court House Hotel (Nathalia) – Approx. 15 km
- Barmah Hotel (Barmah) – Approx. 30 km
- Places to Eat:
- Nathalia Bakery – Approx. 15 km
- Various cafes and pubs in Nathalia – Approx. 15 km
- Local Attractions:
- Lower Goulburn National Park – You are in it!
- Barmah National Park (World’s Largest Red Gum Forest) – Approx. 30 km
- Historic town of Nathalia – Approx. 15 km
- Nearest Caravan Parks:
- Nathalia Caravan Park – Approx. 15 km
- Barmah Bridge Caravan Park – Approx. 30 km
- Next Free Camps:
- Numerous other sites along the Goulburn and Murray Rivers (e.g., Doctors Beach on Ulupna Island).
- Nearest Dump Points:
- Nathalia Showgrounds Public Dump Point – Approx. 16 km
- Nearest Petrol Station:
- Nathalia has multiple options – Approx. 15 km
- Drinking Water Resupply:
- Available in Nathalia township.
- Public Toilets:
- The nearest public toilets are in Nathalia. You must have your own at this site.
Seasonal Weather Forecast
- Summer (Dec-Feb): Hot and sunny, ideal for river activities, with average temperatures of 16-32°C.
- Autumn (Mar-May): Warm, sunny days and mild nights, perfect for fishing and exploring, averaging 9-26°C.
- Winter (Jun-Aug): Cool and crisp with frosty mornings and often clear days, great for campfires, averaging 4-15°C.
- Spring (Sep-Nov): Mild to warm and pleasant, a prime time for being on the water, averaging 8-24°C.