Petroffs Camping Ground | Free Riverside Camping near Strath Creek, VIC

Discover the serene beauty of Petroffs Camping Ground, a hidden gem nestled on the peaceful banks of the King Parrot Creek in regional Victoria. Located just a short drive from the quaint township of Strath Creek, this delightful free campsite offers a genuine back-to-nature experience for travellers and locals alike. Surrounded by towering gums and lush Australian bushland, the gentle sounds of the flowing creek create a perfect soundtrack for relaxation and escape from the hustle and bustle of city life. This spacious, open area provides a fantastic opportunity for self-sufficient campers to set up for a night or two under the stars.

The campground is particularly popular with those who enjoy a spot of freshwater fishing, with the creek known to hold Brown Trout and Blackfish. It’s an idyllic spot to cast a line from the bank or simply sit back in your camp chair and watch the local birdlife, which includes kookaburras, rosellas, and wrens. The level, grassy sites are well-suited for a range of setups, from simple tents and swags to camper trailers and small to medium-sized caravans. While facilities are basic, they provide the essentials for a comfortable stay, making it a prime choice for those who don’t require the amenities of a commercial caravan park. Being pet-friendly means your four-legged companion can join the adventure, provided they are kept under control. Whether you’re seeking a quiet weekend getaway, a convenient stopover on your journey through the Victorian highlands, or a picturesque spot for a picnic, Petroffs Camping Ground delivers an authentic and memorable Aussie bush camping experience. Remember to come prepared, respect the natural environment, and leave no trace to ensure this wonderful free camp remains pristine for all to enjoy.

Campground Details

• Name: Petroffs Camping Ground
• Address: Rulemans Road, Strath Creek, VIC 3658, Australia
• GPS Coordinates: -37.52102258721963, 145.96519132838867
• Website: Not available (Community Managed Site)

Site Information

• Location: Situated on the banks of King Parrot Creek.
• Site suitable for: Tents, camper trailers, small to medium caravans and motorhomes. Not suitable for very large rigs.
• Road access: Dirt road (Rulemans Road), generally suitable for 2WD vehicles in dry conditions. Care should be taken after rain.
• Site surface: Grass and dirt.
• Camping permitted: Yes.
• Maximum overnight stays: 48 hours (2 nights) recommended.
• Facilities: Picnic tables.
• Potable water: No, you must bring your own drinking water.
• Mobile phone coverage: Limited to none. Telstra may have weak signal in some spots.
• TV reception: Poor to non-existent.
• Onsite public toilets: Yes, basic non-flushing toilets are available.
• Rubbish bins: No. Please take all your rubbish with you.
• Open fires: Permitted in designated fire pits only, subject to local fire restrictions and total fire bans. Bring your own firewood.
• Generator use: Permitted between 9am and 8pm. Be considerate of other campers.
• Number of sites available: Approximately 10-15 informal sites.
• Essentials to bring: Drinking water, firewood, rubbish bags, insect repellent, toilet paper.
• Pet friendly: Yes, pets are welcome but must be kept on a leash and under control at all times.
• Fishing: Yes, freshwater fishing in King Parrot Creek. Victorian fishing license required.
• Short walks: Informal walking tracks along the creek.

Local Amenities & Attractions

• Local Pubs:
  • Flowerdale Hotel: ~12km
  • Strath Creek Hotel: ~15km
  • Royal Hotel in Broadford: ~30km
• Places to Eat:
  • Flying Tarts Bakery & Cafe, Flowerdale: ~12km
  • Broadford has various cafes, bakeries, and takeaway options: ~30km
• Local Attractions:
  • Trawool Estate for dining and views: ~25km
  • Great Victorian Rail Trail access in Tallarook or Yea: ~35-40km
  • Mount Disappointment State Forest for hiking and 4WD tracks: ~40km
• Nearest Caravan Parks:
  • Broadford Caravan Park: ~30km
  • Yea Riverside Caravan Park: ~40km
• Next Free Camps:
  • Murrindindi Scenic Reserve: ~35km
  • Goulburn River Camping (various spots near Seymour): ~45km
• Nearest Dump Points:
  • Broadford Caravan Park (fee may apply for non-guests): ~30km
  • Yea Showgrounds & Recreation Reserve: ~40km
• Nearest Petrol Station:
  • Flowerdale: ~12km (may have limited hours)
  • Broadford: ~30km (multiple options, 24/7 available)
• Drinking Water Resupply:
  • Yea Visitor Information Centre: ~40km
  • Broadford Service Centres: ~30km
• Nearest Public Toilets (offsite):
  • Flowerdale Community Hall: ~12km
  • Lions Park, Broadford: ~30km

Seasonal Weather Forecast

• Summer (Dec-Feb): Warm to hot days, often dry. Average temperatures range from 15°C to 30°C, but can exceed 35°C. High fire danger season.
• Autumn (Mar-May): Mild and pleasant days with cooler nights. Beautiful foliage colours. Average temperatures from 10°C to 22°C.
• Winter (Jun-Aug): Cold and often wet. Nights can be frosty and drop close to freezing. Average temperatures from 3°C to 14°C.
• Spring (Sep-Nov): Cool to mild days with increasing sunshine. Creek levels are usually highest. Average temperatures from 8°C to 20°C.