Tambo River Campground: Free, Pet-Friendly Riverside Camping in East Gippsland

For a truly authentic Australian bush camping experience, the Tambo River offers some of the most beautiful and serene free campsites in East Gippsland. Dotted along the riverbanks near historic locations like Tambo Crossing, these dispersed camping areas provide a perfect escape for self-sufficient travellers. The region is a paradise for anglers, with the Tambo River renowned for its healthy populations of Bream, Flathead, and other estuary species, making it a premier fishing destination. The campsites are nestled amongst towering gum trees, offering plenty of shade and a sense of seclusion. You can find your own private spot on a grassy flat, set up camp, and spend your days listening to the sounds of the river and the abundant native birdlife.

This is a classic back-to-basics camping experience, ideal for those who come fully prepared. The various sites along the river generally have no formal facilities, meaning campers must bring their own portable toilet, drinking water, and take all rubbish with them when they leave. The reward is a pristine natural environment where you can enjoy a campfire under the stars and wake up to the mist rising from the river. Being located in a State Forest, these camping areas are pet-friendly, allowing you to share the adventure with your dog. Access to many of the sites is via unsealed forest tracks, which are generally 2WD accessible in dry weather but can become slippery and challenging after rain. With the charming town of Bruthen just a short drive away for supplies and a pub meal, camping on the Tambo River offers the perfect mix of remote tranquility and convenience.

Campground Information

• Name: Tambo River Campground (dispersed)
• Address: Tambo River Road, Tambo Crossing, Victoria 3885, Australia
• GPS Coordinates: -37.55124427216525, 147.86903740313306
• Website: Managed by Forest Fire Management Victoria (no direct website).

Features & Rules

• Location: Dispersed bush campsites along the Tambo River in East Gippsland.
• Site Suitable For: Tents, swags, and off-road camper trailers/caravans.
• Road Access: Unsealed forest roads, 2WD accessible in dry weather, 4WD recommended.
• Site Surface: Natural earth and grass.
• Camping Permitted: Yes, free dispersed camping is permitted.
• Maximum Overnight Stays: No specified limit.
• Facilities: None at most sites. Some popular spots may have a basic non-flushing toilet.
• Potable Water: No. You must bring your own drinking water.
• Mobile Phone Coverage: Very limited 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: Numerous undesignated, unpowered sites.
• Essentials to Bring: Drinking water, portable toilet, firewood, rubbish bags, and all supplies.
• Pet Friendly: Yes, pets are permitted on a leash.
• Fishing: Excellent fishing in the Tambo River.
• Short Walks: Informal walks along the riverbank.

Local Amenities & Attractions

• Local Pubs:
  • Bruthen Inn Hotel – approx. 20 km
• Places to Eat:
  • Bullant Brewery (Bruthen) – approx. 20 km
  • Various cafes and takeaways in Bruthen – approx. 20 km
• Local Attractions:
  • East Gippsland Rail Trail
  • Historic Bruthen township – approx. 20 km
  • Lakes Entrance – approx. 45 km

Nearby Parks & Services

• Nearest Caravan Parks:
  • Nowa Nowa Caravan Park – approx. 35 km
  • Various parks in Lakes Entrance – approx. 45 km
  • Bairnsdale Holiday Park – approx. 45 km
• Nearest Alternate Free Camps:
  • Log Crossing (Kalimna West) – approx. 30 km
• Nearest Dump Points:
  • Bruthen Public Dump Point – approx. 20 km
  • Lakes Entrance Public Dump Point – approx. 45 km
  • Bairnsdale Visitor Information Centre – approx. 45 km
• Nearest Petrol Station: Bruthen – approx. 20 km.
• Nearest Drinking Water Resupply: Public taps in Bruthen.
• Nearest Public Toilets: Bruthen town centre – approx. 20 km.

Seasonal Weather Forecast

• Summer (Dec-Feb): Warm to hot, perfect for swimming and fishing. Average maximum temperatures are around 26°C.
• Autumn (Mar-May): Mild, sunny days and cool nights. Ideal for exploring. Average maximums range from 17°C to 24°C.
• Winter (Jun-Aug): Cool and often damp, with cold nights. Average maximums are around 14°C to 15°C.
• Spring (Sep-Nov): Mild and becoming warmer, with the landscape at its greenest. Average maximums range from 17°C to 22°C.