Step into a living museum of Victoria’s rich gold and copper mining history at the Coopers Creek Campground, a spectacular free camping area nestled deep within the Walhalla and Thomson Historic Area. Situated on the banks of the mighty Thomson River, this popular campground offers a unique blend of rugged natural beauty and fascinating industrial heritage. The area is dominated by the striking remains of the Coopers Creek Copper Mine and its historic lime kilns, providing a tangible link to the region’s bustling past. The campground itself is a large, open, and grassy flat, offering dozens of dispersed sites perfect for tents, camper trailers, and off-road caravans.
The Thomson River is the heart of the reserve, its clear waters inviting campers for a swim, a spot of fishing, or a leisurely kayak. The area is a hub for four-wheel drive enthusiasts, with numerous challenging tracks, including the famous Bruntons Bridge track, starting nearby. As a State Forest campground, Coopers Creek is a fantastic pet-friendly destination, with plenty of space for dogs to explore on a leash. Facilities are basic but functional, including non-flush toilets and numerous informal fire pits where campers gather on cool high-country evenings. It is essential to be self-sufficient, bringing your own drinking water and taking all rubbish home to preserve the pristine environment. Given its popularity and relatively easy access for high-clearance vehicles, it can be a lively spot, especially on long weekends. For those seeking an adventurous and historic camping trip, with access to 4WDing, hiking, and a glimpse into Victoria’s pioneering spirit, Coopers Creek is an unbeatable free destination.
Coopers Creek Campground – VIC Location Map
Coopers Creek Campground
- Address: Coopers Creek Track, Walhalla, VIC 3825, Australia
- GPS Coordinates: -37.98146568057621, 146.42444667969775
- Website: Managed by Forest Fire Management Victoria (no dedicated site).
Features & Facilities
- Location: Historic area on the Thomson River, near the old Coopers Creek Copper Mine.
- Site Suitable For: Tents, swags, camper trailers, and high-clearance off-road caravans.
- Road Access: Unsealed road. 2WD accessible in dry weather with caution, but 4WD is recommended.
- Site Surface: Grass and dirt.
- Camping Permitted: Yes, free camping.
- Maximum Overnight Stays: Standard state forest limits apply (typically up to 28 days).
- Facilities: Non-flush toilets, picnic tables, fire pits.
- Potable Water: No. Bring your own or treat river water.
- Mobile Phone Coverage: Very limited to non-existent.
- Onsite Public Toilets: Yes, non-flush toilets are available.
- Rubbish Bins: No. Carry-in, carry-out policy applies.
- Open Fires: Permitted in established pits, subject to local fire restrictions.
- Generator Use: Permitted, with consideration for other campers.
- Number of Sites Available: Numerous unmarked, dispersed sites.
- Essentials to Bring: Drinking water, firewood, food, rubbish bags, and a portable toilet if preferred.
- Pet Friendly: Yes, pets are permitted on a leash.
- Fishing: Yes, in the Thomson River.
- Short Walks: Explore the Coopers Creek Copper Mine ruins and walk along the Thomson River.
Local Amenities & Attractions
- Local Pubs:
- Wally Pub (Walhalla) – approx. 12 km
- Erica Hotel – approx. 20 km
- Rawson Stockyard Bar & Bistro – approx. 25 km
- Places to Eat:
- Walhalla General Store & Cafe – approx. 12 km
- Erica Hotel Bistro – approx. 20 km
- Local Attractions:
- Walhalla Historic Township – approx. 12 km
- Walhalla Goldfields Railway
- Long Tunnel Extended Gold Mine Tour
- Bruntons Bridge (4WD access)
Nearby Parks & Services
- Nearest Caravan Parks:
- Walhalla Log Cabin Park (unpowered sites only) – approx. 12 km
- Erica Caravan Park – approx. 20 km
- Rawson Caravan Park – approx. 25 km
- Nearest Alternate Free Camps:
- Bruntons Bridge Campground (4WD only)
- Seninis Track Campground (Moondarra State Park, 4WD)
- Nearest Dump Points:
- Moe Public Dump Point – approx. 45 km
- Traralgon Public Dump Point – approx. 60 km
- Nearest Petrol Station: Erica – approx. 20 km. Rawson has fuel but may have limited hours.
- Nearest Drinking Water Resupply: Walhalla or Rawson.
- Nearest Public Toilets: Available onsite. Also in Walhalla township.
Seasonal Weather Forecast
- Summer (Dec-Feb): Warm days, cool nights. Perfect for swimming. Average maximums are around 25°C.
- Autumn (Mar-May): Mild, pleasant days and crisp nights. The autumn colours in Walhalla are famous. Average maximums range from 15°C to 22°C.
- Winter (Jun-Aug): Cold and often wet, with very cold nights and frost. Tracks can be slippery. Average maximums are around 12°C.
- Spring (Sep-Nov): Cool to mild days as the forest comes alive. Average maximums range from 15°C to 20°C.
