Skipworth Reserve: Free, Pet-Friendly Riverside Camping near Jamieson

Escape to the serene beauty of the Victorian High Country at Skipworth Reserve, a fantastic free campground located in the Upper Goulburn Historic Area. Situated just a short, scenic drive south of the charming township of Jamieson, this spacious reserve offers an idyllic setting for a relaxing bush getaway. The campground is a large, well-maintained grassy area with plenty of shade from mature trees, making it perfect for all types of campers, from tents to large caravans and RVs. Its prime location on the banks of the Goulburn River provides a stunning backdrop and a playground for outdoor enthusiasts. The river is perfect for a refreshing swim in the warmer months, and its clear waters are a popular spot for trout fishing and kayaking.

As a well-loved State Forest campground, Skipworth Reserve is proudly pet-friendly, allowing you to share your High Country adventure with your four-legged companions. The facilities are basic but well-maintained, including modern non-flushing toilets, picnic tables, and concrete fire rings with barbecue plates, ensuring a comfortable stay for self-sufficient campers. You will need to bring your own drinking water and take all your rubbish home with you to help preserve the pristine environment. The easy access from the main Mansfield-Woods Point Road makes it a convenient choice for all vehicle types. Whether you’re looking for a base to explore the rich gold mining history of the region, tackle some of the nearby 4WD tracks, or simply unwind by a campfire next to a beautiful river, Skipworth Reserve is an outstanding free camping destination.

Campground Information

• Name: Skipworth Reserve
• Address: Mansfield-Woods Point Road, Kevington (south of Jamieson), Victoria 3723, Australia
• GPS Coordinates: -37.346477,146.143065
• Website: Managed by Forest Fire Management Victoria (no direct website).

Features & Rules

• Location: Large, grassy reserve on the Goulburn River in the Upper Goulburn Historic Area.
• Site Suitable For: Tents, camper trailers, caravans, and big rigs.
• Road Access: Excellent 2WD access from the sealed Mansfield-Woods Point Road.
• Site Surface: Mostly level grass and natural earth.
• Camping Permitted: Yes, free camping is permitted.
• Maximum Overnight Stays: Up to 28 days.
• Facilities: Non-flushing toilets with disabled access, picnic tables, and concrete fire rings with BBQ plates.
• Potable Water: No. You must bring your own drinking water.
• Mobile Phone Coverage: Patchy, best with Telstra.
• Onsite Public Toilets: Yes, basic non-flushing toilets are available.
• Rubbish Bins: No. All rubbish must be taken with you.
• Open Fires: Permitted in provided fire rings, subject to seasonal fire bans.
• Generator Use: Permitted, with consideration for other campers.
• Number of Sites Available: Numerous undesignated, unpowered sites.
• Essentials to Bring: Drinking water, firewood, rubbish bags, and toilet paper.
• Pet Friendly: Yes, dogs are permitted on a leash.
• Fishing: Excellent trout fishing in the Goulburn River.
• Short Walks: Informal walks along the riverbank.

Local Amenities & Attractions

• Local Pubs:
  • Kevington Hotel – approx. 5 km
  • Courthouse Hotel (Jamieson) – approx. 18 km
  • Jamieson Brewery and Grill – approx. 18 km
• Places to Eat:
  • Kevington Hotel – approx. 5 km
  • Various cafes and eateries in Jamieson – approx. 18 km
• Local Attractions:
  • Goulburn River and historic gold mining areas
  • Historic town of Jamieson – approx. 18 km
  • Lake Eildon National Park

Nearby Parks & Services

• Nearest Caravan Parks:
  • Jamieson Caravan Park – approx. 18 km
  • Howqua Valley Holiday Park – approx. 40 km
• Nearest Alternate Free Camps:
  • Doctors Creek Reserve – approx. 2 km
  • Numerous other sites along the Goulburn and Jamieson Rivers.
• Nearest Dump Points:
  • Mansfield Public Dump Point (near Visitor Information Centre) – approx. 45 km
• Nearest Petrol Station: Jamieson – approx. 18 km.
• Nearest Drinking Water Resupply: Public taps in Jamieson – approx. 18 km.
• Nearest Public Toilets: On-site (basic). Flushing toilets in Jamieson.

Seasonal Weather Forecast

• Summer (Dec-Feb): Warm to hot days with cool mountain nights. Perfect for swimming. Average maximum temperatures are around 28°C.
• Autumn (Mar-May): Mild, sunny days and crisp nights with stunning autumn colours. Average maximums range from 16°C to 25°C.
• Winter (Jun-Aug): Cold, with frosty nights and potential for snow on surrounding peaks. Roads can be slippery. Average maximums are around 12°C to 14°C.
• Spring (Sep-Nov): Cool and becoming milder. The river can be high from snowmelt. Average maximums range from 16°C to 23°C.