Discover one of North East Victoria’s best-kept secrets at Don Mckenzie Reserve, a fantastic low-cost campground located in the quiet bushland of Lurg. Situated on the Lurg Public Purposes Reserve, this spacious and well-maintained site is managed by the local Lurg Hall and Reserves Committee, offering an affordable and comfortable base for exploring the surrounding region, from the Winton Wetlands to the famous Silo Art Trail. It’s the perfect stop for travellers seeking powered sites and excellent amenities without the caravan park price tag.
The reserve provides a beautiful natural setting around the historic Old Lurg School house, with abundant wildlife, native birds, and scenic views. Unlike many bush camps, Don Mckenzie Reserve boasts outstanding facilities, including flushing toilets and a hot water shower, which are even equipped with a wheelchair access ramp. This makes it an exceptionally accommodating spot for all types of travellers, including those with limited mobility. The site is spacious, ensuring campers can easily find a perfect spot, whether in the sun or under the shade of the native trees.
Camping operates on a simple $10 per site, per night honesty box system, offering incredible value. Power is available, making it suitable for all vehicle types, from tents and camper trailers to big rigs and caravans. The committee provides bore water (suitable for drinking), rubbish bins, and even a communal brick BBQ, creating a convenient and social atmosphere. Campfires are permitted in accordance with local CFA regulations, adding to the classic Australian bush camping experience.
Its prime location makes it an ideal hub. You are just a short drive from the stunning Winton Wetlands, a must-see for nature lovers and photographers. The camp is also perfectly positioned for exploring the North East Victoria Silo Art Trail, with the famous Goorambat and Devenish silos nearby. The towns of Benalla and Glenrowan, with their rich history, cafes, and supplies, are also within easy reach. For a well-serviced, peaceful, and budget-friendly stay, Don Mckenzie Reserve is a true regional gem.
Don Mckenzie Reserve – VIC Location Map
Don Mckenzie Reserve (Lurg Public Purposes Reserve)
- Address: 952 Winton-Lurg Rd, Lurg VIC 3673
- GPS Coordinates: -36.58692, 146.13182
Site Features and Amenities
- Location: Lurg Public Purposes Reserve, Lurg.
- Site Suitable For: Tents, camper trailers, caravans, and big rigs. All vehicle types welcome.
- Road Access: Excellent 2WD access via sealed Winton-Lurg Road.
- Site Surface: Grass, dirt.
- Camping Permitted: Yes. $10 per site per night. Payment via honesty box on-site or bank transfer.
- Maximum Overnight Stays: 21 days.
- Picnic Tables: Yes, and a brick BBQ area.
- Potable Water: Yes, drinking water is available from an on-site bore.
- Mobile Phone Coverage: Yes, good Telstra 4G reception is reported in the area.
- TV Reception: Yes, generally good.
- Onsite Public Toilets: Yes, flushing toilets and a hot water shower with wheelchair ramp.
- Rubbish Bins: Yes, bins are provided.
- Open Fires: Permitted, in accordance with CFA fire restrictions.
- Generator Use: Permitted, but must be under 80 decibels and not used after 8:00 PM.
- Number of Sites Available: Spacious, unmarked sites.
- Essentials to Bring: Cash for the honesty box.
- Pet Friendly: Yes, pets are welcome but must be kept under control due to nearby livestock.
- Fishing: Not on-site. Possible at nearby Winton Wetlands or Lake Benalla.
- Short Walks: Yes, lovely bushwalking around the reserve.
Local Amenities
- Local Pubs:
- Tatong Tavern: Tatong (~17 km)
- Goorambat Railway Hotel: Goorambat (~19 km)
- Devenish Railway Hotel: Devenish (~26 km)
- Places to Eat:
- Meals available at the nearby country pubs.
- Full range of cafes, bakeries, and restaurants in Benalla (~20-25 km).
- Local Attractions:
- Winton Wetlands (nearby, ~15-20 km)
- North East Victoria Silo Art Trail (Goorambat & Devenish, ~19-26 km)
- Glenrowan (Ned Kelly history) (~20 km)
- Lake Benalla & Benalla Art Gallery (~20-25 km)
- Nearest Caravan Parks:
- Benalla Tourist Park: Benalla (~20-25 km)
- Painters Island Holiday Park: Wangaratta (~30 km)
- Next Free Camps:
- Casey’s Weir Rest Area (~15-20 km)
- Jaycee Island: Benalla (48hr, self-contained only) (~20-25 km)
- Nearest Dump Points:
- Benalla Airport (Free, 24/7 access): Samaria Road, Benalla (~20-25 km)
- Nearest Petrol Station:
- Multiple stations available in Benalla (~20-25 km).
- Drinking Water Resupply:
- On-site (Bore Water).
- Benalla Airport (Free potable water fill): Samaria Road, Benalla (~20-25 km).
- Public Toilets (Town):
- Flushing toilets are available on-site.
- Additional public toilets in Benalla (~20-25 km).
Seasonal Weather Forecast: Lurg / Benalla Region
- Summer (Dec-Feb): Generally hot and dry. Average maximum temperatures are around 30-32°C, with nights cooling to 13-15°C.
- Winter (Jun-Aug): Cool and crisp. Average maximum temperatures are 13-14°C, with cold nights averaging 3-4°C. Frost is common.
- General Conditions: Spring and Autumn offer pleasant, mild weather ideal for camping and exploring. Rainfall is spread throughout the year, with winter being the wettest period.