Muttonwood Camping Ground, officially known as Wellington River campsite number 8, is a fantastic free camping destination nestled on the banks of the pristine Wellington River, near the gateway town of Licola. As one of the thirteen designated campsites along this beautiful river corridor, Muttonwood is a popular choice for families, groups, and anyone seeking an accessible yet authentic bush camping experience. The site is a spacious, open, and relatively flat grassy area, making it perfectly suited for all types of camping setups, from tents and swags to large caravans and motorhomes. The easy 2WD access via the well-maintained Tamboritha Road means you can enjoy a stunning High Country setting without needing a specialised vehicle.
The main attraction is the Wellington River itself, which flows gently past the campground, offering crystal-clear water that is perfect for swimming, kayaking, and fishing for trout on a warm day. The surrounding area, part of the Alpine National Park, is a beautiful landscape of towering gum trees and rugged hills, providing a tranquil backdrop for your stay. Muttonwood Camp is equipped with basic non-flush toilets, a welcome amenity for a free site. In a rare exception for a national park, this specific river corridor is a dog-friendly area, allowing pets to join the family holiday as long as they are kept on a leash. Campers must be self-sufficient, bringing their own drinking water and taking all rubbish home. Fires are permitted in the existing fire pits outside of fire ban periods, but you must bring your own firewood. With its beautiful scenery, excellent river access, and family-friendly atmosphere, Muttonwood Camping Ground is an ideal spot for a memorable High Country getaway.
Muttonwood Camping Ground (Site 8) – VIC Location Map
Muttonwood Camping Ground (Site 8)
Campground Information & Features
- Location: Along the Wellington River on Tamboritha Road, about 15-20 minutes north of Licola.
- Site Suitable For: Tents, camper trailers, caravans, and big rigs.
- Road Access: Good quality unsealed road, easily accessible for 2WD vehicles.
- Site Surface: Large, flat, grassy areas.
- Camping Permitted: Yes, free of charge, no bookings needed.
- Maximum Overnight Stays: Standard national park/state forest limits apply.
- Facilities: Non-flush toilets.
- Potable Water: No. All drinking water must be brought in.
- Mobile Phone Coverage: None.
- Onsite Public Toilets: Yes, basic non-flush toilets are available.
- Rubbish Bins: No. A strict carry-in, carry-out policy applies.
- Open Fires: Permitted in existing fire pits, subject to fire restrictions. BYO firewood.
- Generator Use: Permitted, but be considerate of other campers.
- Number of Sites Available: Numerous unmarked sites in a large reserve.
- Essentials to Bring: Drinking water, firewood, rubbish bags, toilet paper, insect repellent.
- Pet Friendly: Yes, dogs are permitted on a leash in the Wellington River camping corridor.
- Fishing: Yes, popular for trout fishing in the Wellington River.
- Short Walks: Informal walks along the river and into the surrounding bush.
Nearby Amenities & Attractions
- Local Pubs:
- Licola General Store (Licensed) – Approx. 18 km
- Heyfield Railway Hotel (Heyfield) – Approx. 85 km
- Dargo Hotel (Dargo) – Approx. 70 km (via 4WD tracks)
- Places to Eat:
- Licola General Store (Basic takeaway) – Approx. 18 km
- Heyfield (Cafes, bakeries, pubs) – Approx. 85 km
- Maffra (Various options) – Approx. 100 km
- Local Attractions:
- Alpine National Park access
- Numerous 4WD tracks heading into the high plains
- Licola township, the gateway to the High Country
- Nearest Caravan Parks:
- Licola Caravan Park – Approx. 18 km
- Lake Glenmaggie Caravan Park – Approx. 75 km
- Next Free Camps:
- 12 other designated campsites along the Wellington River
- Barkly River Camping Area – Approx. 30 km
- Nearest Dump Points:
- Heyfield RV Stop Spot – Approx. 85 km
- Maffra Showgrounds – Approx. 100 km
- Nearest Petrol Station:
- Licola General Store (limited hours, may be expensive) – Approx. 18 km
- Heyfield (Multiple major stations) – Approx. 85 km
- Drinking Water Resupply:
- Heyfield is the nearest reliable town for public water taps.
- Nearest Public Toilets (offsite):
- Other campsites along the Wellington River
- Licola Township – Approx. 18 km
Seasonal Weather Forecast: Licola / Wellington River Area
- Summer (Dec-Feb): Days are warm to hot, perfect for enjoying the river. Nights are generally mild. High fire danger period.
- Autumn (Mar-May): A very pleasant time to visit, with mild, sunny days and cool, crisp nights. Ideal camping weather.
- Winter (Jun-Aug): Cold, with frosty nights and potential for snow on the surrounding high plains. Tamboritha Road is subject to seasonal closure further north.
- Spring (Sep-Nov): Cool and variable, with a mix of sunshine and rain. The river can be high. The landscape is lush and green.
