For self-sufficient travellers seeking a peaceful and spacious free camp in the heart of Victoria’s Goldfields, the Sebastian Racecourse and Recreation Reserve is an excellent choice. This classic country reserve offers a genuine back-to-nature experience, providing a huge, open, and level grassy area where campers can spread out and enjoy the tranquillity of the bush. Located just a short drive north of Bendigo, it’s a wonderfully quiet spot, set well back from main roads, where the only sounds are the chorus of kookaburras and the rustling of the surrounding gum trees. The reserve is a haven for those who appreciate the simplicity of bush camping and the freedom to find their own perfect spot.
This is a primitive campground, and its charm lies in its simplicity. There are no facilities on site – no toilets, no showers, no tap water, and no rubbish bins. This makes it strictly suitable for campers who are fully self-contained and prepared to be completely self-reliant. A ‘leave no trace’ philosophy is essential here, with all visitors required to take every piece of rubbish with them to preserve the beautiful, natural state of the reserve. A major advantage of this spot is that it is pet-friendly, allowing you to bring your leashed dogs along to enjoy the wide-open spaces.
The location of the reserve is superb. While it offers a secluded and peaceful atmosphere, it’s only a 20-minute drive into the historic city of Bendigo, making it an ideal, budget-friendly base for exploring the region’s rich gold rush history, vibrant arts scene, and fantastic food and wine offerings. It is also on the doorstep of the Whipstick section of the Greater Bendigo National Park, renowned for its unique flora and excellent bushwalking tracks. For a simple, free, and convenient bush stay, the Sebastian Recreation Reserve is a fantastic option.
Sebastian Racecourse and Recreation Reserve – VIC Location Map
Sebastian Racecourse and Recreation Reserve
- Address: Vogele Rd, Sebastian VIC 3556
GPS Coordinates: -36.59241, 144.18602
Site Information
- Location: In a quiet bushland setting in Sebastian, north of Bendigo.
- Site Suitable For: Fully self-contained Caravans, Motorhomes, and Camper Trailers.
- Road Access: Unsealed road access (Vogele Rd), generally suitable for 2WD in dry conditions.
- Site Surface: Large, level grass and dirt areas.
- Camping Permitted: Yes, informal free camping for self-contained vehicles.
- Maximum Overnight Stays: Unspecified, but short stays are expected.
- Number of Powered Sites: None.
- Number of Un-powered Sites: Very large, open, undefined area.
Facilities
- Facilities: None. This is a primitive bush camp.
- Picnic Tables: No.
- Potable Water: No. You must bring all your own water.
- Mobile Phone Coverage: Patchy. Telstra provides the best chance of a signal.
- TV Reception: Poor.
- Onsite Public Toilets: No. You must have your own toilet.
- Ullage: No.
- Rubbish Bins: No. All rubbish must be taken with you.
- Open Fires: Permitted in your own fire pit, subject to seasonal fire restrictions and total fire bans.
- Generator Use: Permitted, with considerate use regarding timing and neighbours.
Essentials & Activities
- Essentials to Bring: Absolutely everything, including water, food, power, toilet facilities, and rubbish bags.
- Pet Friendly: Yes, pets are permitted but must be kept under control.
- Fishing: Fishing opportunities in the nearby Loddon River or Lake Eppalock.
- Short Walks: Excellent for bushwalking and exploring the adjacent Greater Bendigo National Park (Whipstick section).
Local Amenities
- Local Pubs:
- Marong Hotel (approx. 20 km)
- Eaglehawk Hotel (approx. 20 km)
- Bridge Hotel, Bridgewater (approx. 25 km)
- Places to Eat: Full range of supermarkets, pubs, and restaurants in Eaglehawk and Bendigo.
- Local Attractions:
- Greater Bendigo National Park (Whipstick section)
- The historic city of Bendigo and its gold rush attractions (approx. 25 km)
- Central Deborah Gold Mine
- The Great Stupa of Universal Compassion
- Nearest Caravan Parks:
- BIG4 Bendigo Marong Holiday Park
- Numerous parks in Bendigo and Eaglehawk.
- Next Free Camps: Bullock Creek Reserve, various rest areas on the Loddon Valley Highway.
- Nearest Dump Points: A public dump point is available at the Bendigo Showgrounds.
- Nearest Petrol Station: Marong, Eaglehawk, and Bendigo.
- Drinking Water Resupply: Bendigo Visitor Information Centre or local parks in Bendigo.
- Public Toilets: The nearest are in Marong or Eaglehawk.
Seasonal Weather Forecast
- Summer (Dec – Feb): Hot and dry, with a high risk of bushfires. Daytime temperatures often exceed 30°C.
- Autumn (Mar – May): A beautiful time to visit, with mild, sunny days and cool nights. Temperatures average 9°C to 22°C.
- Winter (Jun – Aug): Cold. Days are often crisp and sunny, but nights are very cold with heavy frosts. Temperatures range from 3°C to 14°C.
- Spring (Sep – Nov): A prime season as the surrounding Whipstick Forest comes alive with unique wildflowers. Days are pleasant and nights are cool. Temperatures average 7°C to 21°C.
