For those looking to truly get away from it all, Jim Bullock Campground offers a remote and rugged free camping experience deep within the sprawling Big River State Forest. This is a destination for the dedicated 4WD enthusiast and self-sufficient camper. Tucked away down the challenging Jim Bullock Track, off the main Eildon-Jamieson Road, this campsite provides a genuine sense of isolation amidst the dense high country bush. The journey in is part of the appeal, navigating forest trails to reach a secluded clearing. The campground is a simple, natural flat area, offering a peaceful haven for those with tents, swags, or robust off-road camper trailers. It is not suitable for 2WD vehicles or caravans.
This campsite embodies the spirit of primitive bush camping. There are no facilities whatsoever—no toilets, no water, and no bins. Visitors must be completely self-reliant, equipped with a portable toilet system and prepared to carry out every single piece of rubbish to leave the site pristine. Being in a state forest, it is a pet-friendly location, so dogs can accompany you on your adventure. The area is a fantastic base for further 4WD exploration, trail bike riding, or simply soaking up the profound quiet of the forest. Proximity to the Goulburn River and other nearby creeks provides opportunities for trout fishing for those willing to walk. Open fires are generally permitted in line with state forest regulations, but campers must be vigilant about fire bans and bring their own firewood. Jim Bullock Campground is not about amenities; it’s about the solitude, the challenge, and the reward of experiencing the Victorian High Country in its raw, natural state.
Jim Bullock Campground – VIC Location Map
Jim Bullock Campground
- Address: Jim Bullock Track, Big River State Forest, VIC 3723, Australia
- GPS Coordinates: -37.36778410504729, 146.05690283303952
Campground Information & Features
- Location: In Big River State Forest, accessed via the Eildon-Jamieson Road.
- Site Suitable For: Tents, swags, and small, high-clearance off-road camper trailers.
- Road Access: 4WD only. The access track is challenging and subject to seasonal conditions.
- Site Surface: Natural earth and leaf litter clearing.
- Camping Permitted: Yes, free dispersed camping.
- Maximum Overnight Stays: Standard 28-day state forest limit.
- Facilities: None.
- Potable Water: No. Bring all your own water supplies.
- Mobile Phone Coverage: None. A satellite communication device is highly recommended.
- Onsite Public Toilets: No. A portable toilet is mandatory.
- Rubbish Bins: No. All rubbish must be carried out.
- Open Fires: Permitted subject to regulations and fire bans. BYO firewood.
- Generator Use: Permitted, but not in the spirit of this quiet location.
- Number of Sites Available: A small clearing suitable for a few small setups.
- Essentials to Bring: All water, portable toilet, vehicle recovery gear, detailed maps, PLB/sat phone, first-aid kit.
- Pet Friendly: Yes, dogs are permitted in state forests but must be under control.
- Fishing: Possible in nearby sections of the Goulburn River.
- Short Walks: Informal exploring of the surrounding forest tracks.
Nearby Amenities & Attractions
- Local Pubs:
- Jamieson Brewery and Grill (Jamieson) – Approx. 15 km
- Courthouse Hotel (Jamieson) – Approx. 15 km
- Kevington Hotel – Approx. 20 km
- Places to Eat:
- Jamieson (Various cafes, pubs) – Approx. 15 km
- Mansfield (Wide range of options) – Approx. 55 km
- Local Attractions:
- Big River State Forest 4WD network
- Jamieson historic township – Approx. 15 km
- Lake Eildon
- Nearest Caravan Parks:
- Jamieson Caravan Park – Approx. 15 km
- Mansfield Holiday Park – Approx. 55 km
- Next Free Camps:
- The Pines Camping Area – Approx. 5 km
- Burnt Bridge Camping Ground – Approx. 6 km
- Skipworth Reserve – Approx. 7 km
- Nearest Dump Points:
- Mansfield Public Dump Point – Approx. 55 km
- Nearest Petrol Station:
- Jamieson General Store – Approx. 15 km
- Mansfield (Multiple options) – Approx. 55 km
- Drinking Water Resupply:
- Mansfield is the nearest town with reliable public water taps.
- Nearest Public Toilets (offsite):
- The Pines Camping Area – Approx. 5 km
- Jamieson Township – Approx. 15 km
Seasonal Weather Forecast: Big River / Jamieson Area
- Summer (Dec-Feb): Days are warm to hot, though often cooler under the forest canopy. Be prepared for insects. Temperatures range from 15°C to 32°C.
- Autumn (Mar-May): A great time to visit with mild, stable weather and fewer crowds. Tracks are generally in good condition. Temperatures range from 8°C to 23°C.
- Winter (Jun-Aug): Cold and wet. Tracks are likely to be extremely slippery, boggy, and may be subject to seasonal closure. Snow is possible. Temperatures range from 1°C to 13°C.
- Spring (Sep-Nov): Cool and variable. Tracks can remain closed or challenging until late in the season. Be prepared for all conditions. Temperatures range from 7°C to 21°C.
