Sheepyard Flat is arguably one of Victoria’s most iconic and beloved free campgrounds, steeped in the history and romance of the High Country. Located in the heart of the Howqua Hills Historic Area, this sprawling reserve on the banks of the Howqua River is famous for its connection to the “Man from Snowy River” legend and the area’s rich gold rush and cattlemen heritage. The campsite is enormous, consisting of several large, open, grassy flats that can accommodate hundreds of campers, making it a vibrant and social hub, especially during peak holiday periods. Its excellent 2WD access via a well-maintained gravel road makes it incredibly popular with families and suitable for all camping setups, from the smallest tent to the largest caravan or motorhome.
The beautiful Howqua River winds its way alongside the campground, offering crystal-clear water that’s perfect for swimming, fishing for trout, or simply relaxing by on a summer’s day. The sheer space means you can usually find a prime riverside spot if you arrive early. The historic area is a destination in itself; campers can take the easy walking track to the famous Fry’s Hut, a preserved cattleman’s hut that offers a tangible link to the area’s past. The campsite is equipped with multiple non-flush toilet blocks, a crucial amenity for such a large and popular area. As it’s located in a historic area rather than a national park, Sheepyard Flat is also pet-friendly, adding to its family appeal. Campers must be self-sufficient with drinking water and are required to take all rubbish with them. Fires are a major part of the High Country experience, and while they are permitted in the numerous existing fire pits, it’s essential to abide by all fire restrictions and bring your own firewood. For a quintessential, lively, and historic High Country camping experience, Sheepyard Flat is an unbeatable destination.
Sheepyard Flat Campsite – VIC Location Map
Sheepyard Flat Campsite
Campground Information & Features
- Location: Howqua Hills Historic Area, on the Howqua River, southeast of Mansfield.
- Site Suitable For: Tents, camper trailers, caravans, big rigs – all setups welcome.
- Road Access: Good quality unsealed road (Brocks Rd), suitable for 2WD vehicles.
- Site Surface: Large, flat, grassy areas.
- Camping Permitted: Yes, free camping, no bookings required. Very popular on long weekends.
- Maximum Overnight Stays: Not specified, but standard park/forest limits apply.
- Facilities: Multiple non-flush toilet blocks, picnic tables.
- Potable Water: No. Bring your own drinking water or treat river water.
- Mobile Phone Coverage: None.
- Onsite Public Toilets: Yes, several blocks of non-flush toilets.
- Rubbish Bins: No. You must take all your rubbish with you.
- Open Fires: Permitted in existing fireplaces, subject to seasonal fire bans. BYO firewood.
- Generator Use: Permitted, but be considerate of the large number of campers.
- Number of Sites Available: Hundreds of unmarked sites across several large flats.
- Essentials to Bring: Drinking water, firewood, rubbish bags, toilet paper.
- Pet Friendly: Yes, dogs are allowed but must be on a leash.
- Fishing: Yes, the Howqua River is well known for trout fishing.
- Short Walks: Excellent. The walk to Fry’s Hut is a must-do. Many other tracks explore the area.
Nearby Amenities & Attractions
- Local Pubs:
- Jamieson Brewery and Grill (Jamieson) – Approx. 35 km
- Courthouse Hotel (Jamieson) – Approx. 35 km
- The Delatite Hotel (Mansfield) – Approx. 40 km
- Places to Eat:
- Jamieson (Various cafes and hotel) – Approx. 35 km
- Mansfield (Wide variety of cafes, bakeries, pubs, restaurants) – Approx. 40 km
- Merrijig Motor Inn & Bistro – Approx. 30 km
- Local Attractions:
- Fry’s Hut Historic Site – Approx. 2 km walk from the campground
- Howqua Hills Historic Area
- Craig’s Hut (Requires a significant 4WD trip)
- Nearest Caravan Parks:
- Howqua Valley Holiday Park – Approx. 20 km
- Jamieson Caravan Park – Approx. 35 km
- Mansfield Holiday Park – Approx. 40 km
- Next Free Camps:
- Fry’s Flat – Approx. 2 km
- Pickerings Flat – Approx. 4 km
- Running Creek Camping Reserve (4WD recommended) – Approx. 12 km
- Nearest Dump Points:
- Mansfield Public Dump Point – Approx. 40 km
- Nearest Petrol Station:
- Mansfield (Multiple major service stations) – Approx. 40 km
- Jamieson General Store – Approx. 35 km
- Drinking Water Resupply:
- Mansfield is the nearest town with reliable public taps for water.
- Nearest Public Toilets (offsite):
- Fry’s Flat has toilets – Approx. 2 km
Seasonal Weather Forecast: Howqua Hills Area
- Summer (Dec-Feb): Very popular season. Hot days perfect for the river, with pleasant evenings. Temperatures from 15°C to 35°C+.
- Autumn (Mar-May): Spectacular scenery with autumn colours. Mild, sunny days and cool nights. Ideal for camping and hiking. Temperatures from 8°C to 23°C.
- Winter (Jun-Aug): Cold, with frequent frosts. Snow can fall but rarely settles for long at the flat itself. Higher tracks are closed. Temperatures from 0°C to 12°C.
- Spring (Sep-Nov): Cool and variable conditions. The river can be high. A beautiful time to see the valley turn green. Temperatures from 6°C to 20°C.
