Nestled in the breathtakingly beautiful Nariel Valley, the Nariel Creek Recreation Reserve is one of the Victorian High Country’s most cherished and iconic camping destinations. Famed for hosting the annual Nariel Creek Folk Festival for over 50 years, this reserve is steeped in a rich tradition of music, community, and stunning natural beauty. The campground itself is a magnificent, sprawling expanse of lush, grassy parkland dotted with mature, shady trees, all set along the crystal-clear waters of the Nariel Creek. It’s a place where families and travellers return year after year, drawn by the serene atmosphere and the idyllic setting at the foot of the Snowy Mountains.
The facilities at Nariel Creek are excellent, providing all the necessary comforts for a memorable stay for a very reasonable fee. Campers can choose from a large number of powered and unpowered sites, and have access to a well-maintained amenities block with toilets and hot showers. The reserve’s main attraction is the creek itself – a perfect spot for a refreshing summer swim, a bit of trout fishing, or simply relaxing on the bank with a good book. The reserve is a fantastic base for exploring the wider ‘Man from Snowy River’ country. The charming town of Corryong is just a short drive away for supplies and historical attractions, and the mighty Murray River and the entrance to Kosciuszko National Park are also within easy reach. Whether you’re coming for the legendary festival or just seeking a peaceful escape in one of Australia’s most scenic valleys, the Nariel Creek Recreation Reserve is a truly special destination.
Nariel Creek Recreation Reserve – VIC Location Map
Nariel Creek Recreation Reserve
- Address: Nariel Valley VIC 3707, Australia
- GPS Coordinates: -36.243299, 147.834886
Campground Details
- Location: In the scenic Nariel Valley, south of Corryong.
- Site Suitable For: Tents, camper trailers, caravans, and large motorhomes.
- Road Access: Sealed road access.
- Site Surface: Mostly flat grass with plenty of shade.
- Camping Permitted: Yes, low-cost camping with fees payable via an honesty box or to a caretaker.
- Maximum Overnight Stays: Flexible, suitable for extended stays.
- Facilities: Powered and unpowered sites, toilets, hot showers.
- Potable Water: Yes, available on site.
- Mobile Phone Coverage: Limited, primarily Telstra service. Can be patchy.
- TV Reception: Variable, may require a satellite dish.
- Onsite Public Toilets: Yes.
- Rubbish Bins: Yes, but taking rubbish with you is encouraged.
- Open Fires: Permitted in contained fire pits only, subject to local fire restrictions and Total Fire Ban days.
- Generator Use: Permitted with consideration for the peaceful environment and other campers.
- Number of Sites Available: Very large, unmarked area. Can be extremely busy during the festival period (Boxing Day – New Year).
- Essentials to Bring: Cash for fees, fishing gear, swimmers, and a musical instrument for the festival!
- Pet Friendly: Yes, pets are welcome on a leash.
- Fishing: Excellent trout fishing in the Nariel Creek. A Victorian fishing licence is required.
- Short Walks: Beautiful walks along the creek and on quiet country roads.
Local Amenities & Attractions
- Local Pubs:
- Corryong Hotel Motel, Corryong: Approx. 15 km
- Courthouse Hotel, Corryong: Approx. 15 km
- Tintaldra Hotel, Tintaldra: Approx. 45 km
- Places to Eat:
- Black Sheep Café & Restaurant, Corryong: Approx. 15 km
- Corryong Bakery: Approx. 15 km
- Pub meals available at both hotels in Corryong.
- Local Attractions:
- Man from Snowy River Folk Museum, Corryong: Approx. 15 km
- Corryong township and Jack Riley’s Grave.
- Scenic drives into the Snowy Mountains and to the Murray River.
- Nearest Caravan Parks:
- Corryong Recreation Reserve: Approx. 15 km
- Colac Colac Caravan Park: Approx. 25 km
- Next Free Camps:
- Numerous bush camps along the Murray River.
- Nearest Dump Points:
- Corryong Recreation Reserve: Approx. 15 km
- Nearest Petrol Station:
- Multiple options in Corryong: Approx. 15 km
- Drinking Water Resupply:
- Public Toilets (offsite):
- Located in the main street park in Corryong.
Seasonal Weather Forecast
- Summer (Dec-Feb): Warm to hot days, perfect for swimming in the creek. Evenings are often cool. Temperatures average 15°C to 30°C.
- Autumn (Mar-May): Crisp, clear days and cool nights. The autumn colours in the valley are spectacular. Temperatures average 8°C to 22°C.
- Winter (Jun-Aug): Cold, with frequent heavy frosts and occasional snow on the surrounding peaks. Average temperatures range from 0°C to 12°C.
- Spring (Sep-Nov): Mild and sunny, but weather can change rapidly. The rivers are often running high. Temperatures average 6°C to 20°C.
