Tucked away along the banks of the Avon River, Fishers Riverside Campsite offers a quintessential Australian bush camping experience in the quiet locality of Perry Bridge. This dispersed camping area is highly regarded by self-sufficient travellers for its spacious, grassy sites and direct access to the water. Located just a short drive from the townships of Stratford and Sale, it provides a perfect balance of seclusion and accessibility, making it an ideal base for exploring the wider Gippsland region.
The campsite is set on a large, open flat area that backs onto the river, providing ample room for caravans, camper trailers, motorhomes, and tents. Unlike cramped holiday parks, Fishers Riverside allows you to spread out and find your own slice of paradise. The river here is calm and picturesque, popular for fishing (with a valid licence), kayaking, or simply sitting by the bank and watching the world go by. The large, established trees provide pockets of shade, and the flat terrain makes setting up camp a breeze.
It is important to note that Fishers Riverside is a “bush camp” with no amenities. There are no toilets, showers, or drinking water on-site. Visitors must be fully self-contained, carrying their own portable toilet, water, and power supplies. This requirement helps maintain the pristine nature of the site and ensures it remains a peaceful retreat for responsible campers. The maximum stay is generally 28 days, allowing for an extended relaxation period in this beautiful natural setting.
While the campsite offers a tranquil escape, you are never too far from civilisation. The historic town of Stratford is just over 10 kilometres away, offering cafes, pubs, and supplies, while the major regional hub of Sale is a 20-minute drive south. Whether you are passing through on the Princes Highway or looking for a quiet spot to drop a line, Fishers Riverside Campsite is a hidden gem on the Avon River.
Fishers Riverside Campsite – VIC Location Map
Fishers Riverside Campsite
- Address: 191 Springberg Ln, Perry Bridge VIC 3862, Australia
- Managed By: Local Authorities (Free Camping)
- GPS Coordinates: -38.03136, 147.24815
Site Information
- Location: Located at the end of Springberg Lane in Perry Bridge. It sits on the banks of the Avon River.
- Site Suitable For: Big rigs, caravans, motorhomes, camper trailers, and tents. The area is large and flat.
- Road Access: Unsealed access via Springberg Lane. The track is generally firm and suitable for 2WD in dry weather, but can become slippery or boggy after heavy rain. Check conditions if towing.
- Site Surface: Grass and compacted dirt.
Available Facilities
- Bush Camping (No Amenities)
- No Toilets (You must bring a portable toilet).
- No Showers.
- No Drinking Water.
- No Rubbish Bins (Carry in, Carry out).
- River Access (Bank fishing and kayak launching).
- Campfires Permitted (In contained fire pits only, subject to fire bans).
Essentials to Bring
- Portable Toilet: Mandatory as there are no facilities.
- Water: Sufficient drinking and washing water for your stay.
- Rubbish Bags: You must take all waste with you.
- Firewood: Bring your own clean firewood.
- Insect Repellent: Mosquitoes can be active near the river.
- Shovel: For campfire safety.
- Recovery Gear: Recommended if rain is forecast.
Park Policies & Features
- Pet Friendly: Yes, dogs are permitted but must be kept under control.
- Fishing: The Avon River contains Bream, Estuary Perch, and sometimes Bass. A Victorian Fishing Licence is required. Fisheries Victoria regularly patrols the area.
- Short Walks: You can walk along the riverbanks and explore the immediate bushland. The terrain is flat and easy going.
- Swimming: Possible in the river, but be aware of submerged logs and varying depths.
Local Amenities (Stratford & Sale)
Local Pubs
- Avon Hotel: (Tyers St, Stratford) Approx. 13km West.
- The Briagolong Hotel: (Cairns St, Briagolong) Approx. 20km North-West.
- Star Hotel: (Raymond St, Sale) Approx. 25km South.
Places to Eat
- Badger & Hare: (Tyers St, Stratford) Approx. 13km – Popular cafe.
- Wa-De-Lock Cellar Door: (Princes Hwy, Stratford) Approx. 13km.
- Redd Catt: (Raymond St, Sale) Approx. 25km – Modern dining.
- Stratford Bakery: (Tyers St, Stratford) Approx. 13km.
Local Attractions
- Knob Reserve: (Stratford) Approx. 15km – Historic bluff and parkland on the Avon River.
- Gippsland Art Gallery: (Sale) Approx. 25km – Located at the Port of Sale.
- Lake Wellington: (Marlay Point) Approx. 20km South – Largest of the Gippsland Lakes.
- Sale Botanic Gardens: (Guthridge Pde, Sale) Approx. 26km.
- The Swing Bridge: (Sale) Approx. 22km – Historic opening bridge.
Nearest Caravan Parks
- Stratford On The River Tourist Park: (McMillan St, Stratford) Approx. 13km West.
- Sale Motor Village: (Princes Hwy, Sale) Approx. 23km South.
Nearest Free Camps
- Marlay Point Foreshore Reserve: (Clydebank) Approx. 20km South.
- Providence Ponds Rest Area: (Princes Hwy, Munro) Approx. 10km East.
Nearest Dump Points
- Sale Public Dump Point: (Stephenson Park, Guthridge Pde) Approx. 25km.
- Stratford Public Dump Point: (Check local signage/availability at caravan park) Approx. 13km.
Nearest Petrol Stations
- Caltex Stratford: (Princes Hwy) Approx. 13km.
- United Petroleum Sale: (Princes Hwy) Approx. 23km.
Nearest Drinking Water Resupply
- Sale Public Dump Point: (Stephenson Park) Tap often available. Approx. 25km.
- Stratford: Public taps may be available at Memorial Park. Approx. 13km.
Nearest Public Toilets
- Providence Ponds Rest Area: (Princes Hwy) Approx. 10km East.
- Stratford Memorial Park: (Princes Hwy) Approx. 13km West.
Seasonal Weather Forecast for Perry Bridge / Sale
- Summer (December – February): Warm to hot. Average highs 25°C – 30°C. Sea breezes can cool things down in the afternoon.
- Autumn (March – May): Mild and pleasant. Warm days (18°C – 24°C) and cooler nights. Ideally stable weather for camping.
- Winter (June – August): Cool to cold. Average highs 13°C – 15°C. Nights are cold (3°C – 6°C) with frost possible. Campfires are essential.
- Spring (September – November): Warming up with increasing sunshine. Highs 17°C – 22°C. The landscape is often green and vibrant.
