For a spectacular free camping escape nestled in one of Victoria’s most scenic valleys, the Trawool Wildlife Reserve Campground is a true natural gem. Located just a short drive from the town of Seymour, this campground offers a genuine bush experience on the doorstep of the majestic Goulburn River. The drive into the campground along the unsealed Greenslopes Road sets the scene, winding through beautiful forest and delivering you to a peaceful clearing surrounded by towering gum trees and rugged granite hills. This is a classic, back-to-basics bush camp, perfect for self-sufficient travellers looking to immerse themselves in nature and enjoy the tranquillity of the forest.
The campground is a spacious, open, grassy area, providing ample room for tents, camper trailers, and small-to-medium caravans to find their own secluded spot. The facilities are primitive, consisting of a non-flushing toilet and some wood-fired barbecue pits, which is a key part of its appeal for those wanting to escape the crowds of more developed parks. The ‘leave no trace’ principle is paramount here; campers must bring all their own drinking water and take all rubbish home. The opportunity to have a campfire under a brilliant canopy of stars makes for an unforgettable evening experience.
The location is a paradise for outdoor enthusiasts. It provides fantastic access to the Goulburn River for fishing and kayaking, and is right next to the famous Great Victorian Rail Trail, a must-do for cyclists and walkers. The surrounding reserve is a haven for wildlife, with kangaroos, wallabies, and a huge variety of birdlife frequently spotted. Its proximity to the Hume Highway makes it a surprisingly accessible yet wonderfully secluded stopover. For a free, authentic, and scenic bush stay, the Trawool Wildlife Reserve is a top-tier choice for the well-prepared camper.
Trawool Wildlife Reserve Campground – VIC Location Map
Trawool Wildlife Reserve Campground
- Address: Greenslopes Rd, Trawool VIC 3660
- GPS Coordinates: -37.13594, 145.24189
Site Information
- Location: In the Trawool Valley, part of the Trawool State Forest, near the Goulburn River.
- Site Suitable For: Tents, Swags, Camper Trailers, small Caravans and Motorhomes.
- Road Access: Unsealed road (Greenslopes Rd). 2WD is generally suitable in dry weather, but conditions can deteriorate after rain.
- Site Surface: Grass and dirt.
- Camping Permitted: Yes, free camping.
- Maximum Overnight Stays: Unspecified, but short stays of 1-3 nights are typical.
- Number of Powered Sites: None.
- Number of Un-powered Sites: Spacious, open, undefined area.
Facilities
- Facilities: Non-flushing (pit) toilets, wood-fired BBQs/fire pits. No showers.
- Picnic Tables: Yes, some are available.
- Potable Water: No. You must bring all your own water.
- Mobile Phone Coverage: Very limited to non-existent.
- TV Reception: None.
- Onsite Public Toilets: Yes.
- Ullage: No.
- Rubbish Bins: No. All rubbish must be taken with you.
- Open Fires: Permitted in designated fire pits only, subject to seasonal fire restrictions and total fire bans.
- Generator Use: Permitted, but be very considerate of the quiet environment and other campers.
Essentials & Activities
- Essentials to Bring: All water and food supplies, toilet paper, rubbish bags, firewood, fishing gear, bicycle for the rail trail.
- Pet Friendly: No. As this is a designated Wildlife Reserve, dogs and other pets are prohibited.
- Fishing: Good fishing opportunities for species like trout and redfin in the nearby Goulburn River.
- Short Walks: Excellent for bushwalking. Direct access to the Great Victorian Rail Trail is a major highlight.
Local Amenities
- Local Pubs:
- The Trawool Estate (boutique hotel/restaurant) (approx. 5 km)
- Royal Hotel, Seymour (approx. 15 km)
- The Railway Club Hotel, Seymour (approx. 15 km)
- Places to Eat: A full range of supermarkets, pubs, cafes, and bakeries in Seymour.
- Local Attractions:
- The Great Victorian Rail Trail
- Goulburn River
- Vietnam Veterans Commemorative Walk, Seymour
- Seymour Railway Heritage Centre
- Nearest Caravan Parks:
- Goulburn River Tourist Park, Seymour
- BIG4 Seymour Holiday Park
- Next Free Camps: Goulburn River Reserve, Seymour. Various rest areas on the Hume and Goulburn Valley Highways.
- Nearest Dump Points: A public dump point is available at the Seymour Showgrounds.
- Nearest Petrol Station: Numerous 24/7 service stations in Seymour (approx. 15 km).
- Drinking Water Resupply: Seymour Visitor Information Centre.
- Public Toilets: Available onsite.
Seasonal Weather Forecast
- Summer (Dec – Feb): Warm to hot, with a chance of thunderstorms. The river is perfect for cooling off. High fire danger period. Temperatures average 14°C to 29°C.
- Autumn (Mar – May): A stunning season with beautiful autumn colours in the valley. Days are mild and sunny, nights are cool. Temperatures average 8°C to 23°C.
- Winter (Jun – Aug): Cold. Days are often crisp and sunny, but can be foggy. Nights are very cold with heavy frosts. Temperatures range from 3°C to 14°C.
- Spring (Sep – Nov): A beautiful time as the countryside is green and vibrant. Days are pleasant and nights are cool. Temperatures average 7°C to 22°C.