Treefrog Camping Ground, officially designated as Wellington River campsite number 6, is a wonderful free camping spot that perfectly captures the charm of the Victorian High Country. Located along the scenic Tamboritha Road just north of Licola, it is one of the thirteen well-loved campsites in this beautiful river valley. This particular site is a spacious, open, and grassy area that provides easy access for all types of vehicles, including standard 2WD cars, caravans, and motorhomes. Its accessibility and generous size make it an extremely popular choice for families, first-time campers, and groups looking for a hassle-free bush getaway with a stunning riverside setting.
The pristine Wellington River is the heart and soul of the camping experience here. The clear, flowing water is just a short stroll from the campsites, offering an inviting escape for swimming, floating on a lilo, or trying your luck fishing for trout during the summer months. The backdrop of the Alpine National Park, with its tall eucalypt forests and rugged hills, adds to the tranquil atmosphere. A key feature of this camping corridor is its unique dog-friendly designation (for pets on-leash), a rarity within a national park, making it a complete family destination. While camping is free, the site is equipped with the basic but essential amenity of non-flush toilets. Campers must be fully self-sufficient, which means bringing your own drinking water and being prepared to take all your rubbish home with you. Open fires are a core part of the experience, permitted in existing fire pits outside of fire ban periods, though you must bring your own firewood. For an easy, beautiful, and memorable stay by the water, Treefrog Camp is an outstanding choice.
Treefrog Camping Ground (Site 6) – VIC Location Map
Treefrog Camping Ground (Site 6)
Campground Information & Features
- Location: Along the Wellington River on Tamboritha Road, about 15 km north of Licola.
- Site Suitable For: Tents, camper trailers, caravans, and all types of RVs.
- Road Access: Good unsealed road, easily accessible for 2WD vehicles in dry weather.
- Site Surface: Large, flat, grassy areas.
- Camping Permitted: Yes, free camping, no bookings needed.
- Maximum Overnight Stays: Standard park regulations apply.
- Facilities: Non-flush toilets.
- Potable Water: No. Bring your own drinking water.
- 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 bans. BYO firewood.
- Generator Use: Permitted, but be considerate of others.
- Number of Sites Available: Numerous unmarked sites in a large, open area.
- Essentials to Bring: Drinking water, firewood, rubbish bags, toilet paper.
- Pet Friendly: Yes, dogs are permitted on a leash in the Wellington River corridor.
- Fishing: Yes, popular for trout fishing in the Wellington River.
- Short Walks: Informal walks along the river are very popular.
Nearby Amenities & Attractions
- Local Pubs:
- Licola General Store (Licensed) – Approx. 15 km
- Heyfield Railway Hotel (Heyfield) – Approx. 80 km
- Dargo Hotel (Dargo) – Approx. 75 km (via 4WD tracks)
- Places to Eat:
- Licola General Store (Basic takeaway) – Approx. 15 km
- Heyfield (Cafes, bakeries, pubs) – Approx. 80 km
- Local Attractions:
- The gateway to the Alpine National Park high country
- Numerous 4WD tracks heading towards the high plains
- Licola township
- Nearest Caravan Parks:
- Licola Caravan Park – Approx. 15 km
- Lake Glenmaggie Caravan Park – Approx. 70 km
- Next Free Camps:
- The other 12 designated campsites along the Wellington River (e.g., Muttonwood, Cockatoo)
- Nearest Dump Points:
- Heyfield RV Stop Spot – Approx. 80 km
- Maffra Showgrounds – Approx. 95 km
- Nearest Petrol Station:
- Licola General Store (limited hours, expensive) – Approx. 15 km
- Heyfield (multiple stations) – Approx. 80 km
- Drinking Water Resupply:
- Heyfield is the closest reliable town to fill water tanks.
- Nearest Public Toilets (offsite):
- Other designated campsites along the Wellington River
- Licola Township – Approx. 15 km
Seasonal Weather Forecast: Licola / Wellington River Area
- Summer (Dec-Feb): Days are typically warm to hot, perfect for swimming in the river. Nights are mild. Be aware of high fire danger.
- Autumn (Mar-May): An excellent time to visit, with mild, sunny days and cool, crisp nights. Ideal camping weather.
- Winter (Jun-Aug): Cold, with frosty nights. Snow can fall on the surrounding high plains, and the Tamboritha Road is subject to seasonal closure further north of the campsites.
- Spring (Sep-Nov): Cool and variable weather, with a mix of sunshine and rain. The river can run high, and the landscape is lush and green.
