Red’s Beach Campground: Free, Pet-Friendly Camping on the Latrobe River

Tucked away in the serene bushland of the Latrobe Valley, Red’s Beach and Camping Ground offers a peaceful and authentic free camping experience. This beautiful spot is situated on the banks of the Latrobe River, near the historic town of Yallourn North, providing a genuine escape for self-sufficient travellers. The campground is a spacious, grassy area surrounded by native bush, offering plenty of shade from mature gum trees. It’s a perfect destination for those looking to unwind, connect with nature, and enjoy the simple pleasures of a riverside camp. The gentle-flowing river is ideal for a refreshing swim on a hot day, a spot of fishing, or a leisurely paddle in a kayak.

As a primitive bush camp, Red’s Beach is best suited for those who come fully prepared. There are no formal facilities like toilets or drinking water, so campers must be completely self-contained and adhere to a strict ‘leave no trace’ philosophy by taking all rubbish home. This self-sufficiency is rewarded with a tranquil and unspoiled environment. The campground is pet-friendly, making it a wonderful choice for those who want to share their outdoor adventures with their dogs. The access via unsealed tracks means it’s best suited for 4WDs or high-clearance vehicles, which helps preserve the quiet and secluded atmosphere of the site. With the towns of Yallourn North, Moe, and Morwell just a short drive away for supplies, Red’s Beach offers a perfect balance of remote tranquility and regional convenience, making it an excellent choice for a budget-friendly getaway.

Campground Information

• Name: Red’s Beach and Camping Ground
• Address: La Trobe River Road, Yallourn North, Victoria 3825, Australia
• GPS Coordinates: -38.1667039993732, 146.41058102493483
• Website: Managed by local authorities (no direct website).

Features & Rules

• Location: Secluded bush setting on the banks of the Latrobe River.
• Site Suitable For: Tents, swags, and off-road camper trailers.
• Road Access: Unsealed tracks, 4WD or high-clearance vehicle recommended.
• Site Surface: Natural earth and grass.
• Camping Permitted: Yes, free dispersed camping is permitted.
• Maximum Overnight Stays: No specified limit.
• Facilities: None. This is a completely self-sufficient campsite.
• Potable Water: No. You must bring your own drinking water.
• Mobile Phone Coverage: Patchy to non-existent.
• Onsite Public Toilets: No. A portable toilet is essential.
• Rubbish Bins: No. All rubbish must be taken with you.
• Open Fires: Permitted, subject to seasonal fire bans.
• Generator Use: Permitted, with consideration for other campers.
• Number of Sites Available: Several undesignated, unpowered sites.
• Essentials to Bring: Drinking water, portable toilet, firewood, rubbish bags, and insect repellent.
• Pet Friendly: Yes, pets are permitted.
• Fishing: Possible in the Latrobe River.
• Short Walks: Informal walks along the riverbank.

Local Amenities & Attractions

• Local Pubs:
  • Rossmore Hotel (Yallourn North) – approx. 6 km
  • Club Hotel (Yallourn North) – approx. 6 km
  • Moe Hotel (Moe) – approx. 20 km
• Places to Eat:
  • Various cafes and takeaways in Yallourn North – approx. 6 km
  • A wide range of restaurants and cafes in Moe and Morwell – approx. 20-25 km
• Local Attractions:
  • Old Brown Coal Mine Museum (Yallourn North) – approx. 6 km
  • Lake Narracan – approx. 15 km
  • Morwell Centenary Rose Garden – approx. 25 km

Nearby Parks & Services

• Nearest Caravan Parks:
  • Lake Narracan Caravan Park – approx. 15 km
  • Moe Gardens Caravan Park – approx. 20 km
• Nearest Alternate Free Camps:
  • Bruntons Bridge Campground (near Walhalla) – approx. 40 km
• Nearest Dump Points:
  • Moe Gardens Caravan Park (check for public access/fee) – approx. 20 km
  • Trafalgar Public Dump Point – approx. 35 km
• Nearest Petrol Station: Yallourn North – approx. 6 km.
• Nearest Drinking Water Resupply: Public taps in Yallourn North, Moe, or Morwell.
• Nearest Public Toilets: Yallourn North town centre – approx. 6 km.

Seasonal Weather Forecast

• Summer (Dec-Feb): Warm to hot, sometimes humid. Perfect for swimming. Average maximum temperatures are around 26°C.
• Autumn (Mar-May): Mild, pleasant days and cool nights. Great for exploring the area. Average maximums range from 16°C to 24°C.
• Winter (Jun-Aug): Cool and often damp, with cold nights. Average maximums are around 13°C to 14°C.
• Spring (Sep-Nov): Mild and becoming warmer, with the landscape at its greenest. Average maximums range from 16°C to 22°C.