Don’t let the name deter you; Snake’s Reserve is a highly regarded and beautifully situated free campground in the heart of the Victorian High Country. Located directly off the Mansfield-Woods Point Road near Kevington, this spacious reserve offers campers a prime spot right on the banks of the majestic Upper Goulburn River. It’s a large, level, and grassy area, making it exceptionally well-suited for all kinds of camping setups, from simple tents and camper trailers to large caravans and RVs, with plenty of space to find a private corner. The surrounding bushland and the sound of the flowing river create a classic, tranquil Australian bush camping atmosphere that draws visitors back time and again.
As a state forest campsite, Snake’s Reserve is wonderfully accommodating, being both free of charge and pet-friendly. The main activities centre around the river, which is renowned for its trout fishing and provides a fantastic place to cool off with a swim during the warmer months. While the facilities are basic, the provision of a non-flush toilet is a significant convenience for a remote site like this. Campers need to be fully self-sufficient, ensuring they bring their own drinking water and are prepared to take all their rubbish away with them, adhering to the ‘leave no trace’ principle. Open fires are a quintessential part of the experience here, with numerous existing fire pits available for use, but it’s crucial to be aware of seasonal fire restrictions and Total Fire Ban days, and to bring your own firewood. With its combination of easy access, ample space, and stunning riverside scenery, Snake’s Reserve is a perfect base for exploring the historic goldfields, tackling nearby 4WD tracks, or simply enjoying a peaceful and restorative escape in nature.
Snake’s Reserve – VIC Location Map
Snake’s Reserve
- Address: Mansfield-Woods Point Road, Knockwood, VIC 3723, Australia
- GPS Coordinates: -37.41690073638912, 146.23958156796115
Campground Information & Features
- Location: On the Mansfield-Woods Point Road, south of Kevington and north of Knockwood, right on the Goulburn River.
- Site Suitable For: Tents, camper trailers, caravans, RVs, and motorhomes.
- Road Access: Unsealed but generally good quality, suitable for 2WD vehicles and large rigs in dry weather.
- Site Surface: Grass and natural earth.
- Camping Permitted: Yes, free of charge.
- Maximum Overnight Stays: Standard state forest limits apply (typically 28 days).
- Facilities: Non-flush toilets.
- Potable Water: No, you must bring your own drinking water.
- Mobile Phone Coverage: Very limited to non-existent.
- 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 seasonal fire restrictions. BYO firewood.
- Generator Use: Permitted, but be considerate of fellow campers.
- Number of Sites Available: Numerous unmarked sites across a large, spacious area.
- Essentials to Bring: Drinking water, firewood, rubbish bags, toilet paper.
- Pet Friendly: Yes, dogs are permitted but must be kept on a leash or under control.
- Fishing: Yes, the Goulburn River is popular for trout fishing.
- Short Walks: Plenty of opportunities for informal walks along the river and nearby forest tracks.
Nearby Amenities & Attractions
- Local Pubs:
- Kevington Hotel – Approx. 1 km
- Jamieson Brewery and Grill (Jamieson) – Approx. 15 km
- Commercial Hotel (Woods Point) – Approx. 35 km
- Places to Eat:
- Kevington Hotel (Pub meals) – Approx. 1 km
- Jamieson (Various cafes and hotel) – Approx. 15 km
- Mansfield (Wide range of options) – Approx. 50 km
- Local Attractions:
- Historic Kevington Hotel – Approx. 1 km
- Jamieson township and museum – Approx. 15 km
- Gaffney’s Creek historic area – Approx. 7 km
- Nearest Caravan Parks:
- Jamieson Caravan Park – Approx. 15 km
- Mansfield Holiday Park – Approx. 50 km
- Next Free Camps:
- Knockwood Reserve (CC Campsite) – Approx. 3 km
- Twelve Mile Reserve – Approx. 2 km
- Gaffney’s Creek Recreation Reserve – Approx. 7 km
- Nearest Dump Points:
- Mansfield Public Dump Point – Approx. 50 km
- Alexandra Public Dump Point – Approx. 70 km
- Nearest Petrol Station:
- Jamieson – Approx. 15 km
- Mansfield – Approx. 50 km
- Drinking Water Resupply:
- Mansfield is the nearest reliable town for filling water tanks.
- Nearest Public Toilets (offsite):
- Knockwood Reserve – Approx. 3 km
- Jamieson Township – Approx. 15 km
Seasonal Weather Forecast: Kevington/Knockwood Area
- Summer (Dec-Feb): Warm to hot days are perfect for enjoying the river, with pleasant evenings. Temperatures typically range from 14°C to 30°C.
- Autumn (Mar-May): Often considered the best season, with mild, stable weather, sunny days and cool nights. Temperatures range from 7°C to 22°C.
- Winter (Jun-Aug): Cold, with overnight frosts common and occasional snow on the higher surrounding peaks. Pack warm gear. Temperatures range from 0°C to 12°C.
- Spring (Sep-Nov): Conditions can be variable, with cool temperatures and a mix of sunny and wet days. The landscape is lush and green. Temperatures range from 6°C to 20°C.
