For those who appreciate the simple beauty of the Australian bush, Reids Camping Ground offers a quintessential free camping experience on the banks of the majestic Goulburn River. Situated just a short distance from its more well-known neighbour, Petroffs, this delightful spot provides a slightly more secluded and intimate atmosphere. Shaded by towering river gums, the grassy clearings provide perfect, level sites for self-contained campers to set up and unwind. The air is filled with the sounds of native birdlife and the gentle murmur of the river, creating an instant sense of peace and disconnection from the hustle of daily life. It’s an ideal location for nature lovers looking to immerse themselves in a pristine environment.
The primary allure of Reids Camping Ground is its direct river frontage. This easy access makes it a haven for water-based activities. Anglers can spend their days patiently waiting for a bite from the local trout or Murray cod, while kayakers and paddleboarders can launch directly from the bank to explore the serene stretches of the Goulburn. As a primitive camp, it operates on a self-sufficiency and “leave no trace” basis, ensuring the area remains unspoiled. Campers must bring everything they need, from drinking water to portable toilets, and take all their rubbish with them. The allowance of campfires, when conditions are safe, completes the authentic bush experience, inviting quiet evenings of stargazing. Despite its secluded feel, the campground is conveniently located within a reasonable drive of Yea and Alexandra, making it easy to pop into town for essential supplies or a hearty pub meal before returning to your riverside sanctuary.
Reids Camping Ground – VIC Location Map
Reids Camping Ground
- Address: Molesworth-Dropmore Road, Ghin Ghin, Victoria, Australia
- GPS Coordinates: -37.520316, 145.956147
Campground Information
- Location: Ghin Ghin, Victoria. Located on the Goulburn River.
- Site Suitable For: Tents, Camper Trailers, Caravans, Motorhomes.
- Road Access: Dirt/gravel road. 2WD accessible in dry conditions, but can be challenging after rain.
- Site Surface: Mostly level grass and dirt.
- Camping Permitted: Yes, this is a designated free camping area.
- Maximum Overnight Stays: Please observe any local signage, typically up to 14 days.
- Facilities: None. This is a primitive campsite requiring full self-sufficiency.
- Potable Water: No. You must bring all your own water.
- Mobile Phone Coverage: Very limited and unreliable. Telstra may have weak service in some spots.
- TV Reception: Unlikely to get a reliable signal.
- Onsite Public Toilets: drop toilet, I’d recommend that a portable toilet is essential.
- Rubbish Bins: No. All rubbish must be carried out.
- Open Fires: Permitted in existing fire pits or your own contained unit, unless fire restrictions are in place.
- Generator Use: Permitted, but be mindful of neighbours and keep usage to reasonable hours.
- Number of Sites Available: Unspecified, several spots available along the river.
- Essentials to Bring: All water, toilet and shower facilities, power, firewood, and rubbish bags.
- Pet Friendly: Yes, pets are permitted but must be kept under effective control to protect wildlife.
- Fishing: Great fishing in the Goulburn River. A Victorian fishing licence is required.
- Short Walks: Informal walks along the riverbank are the main activity.
Local Amenities & Attractions
- Local Pubs:
- Molesworth Hotel – approx. 11 km
- Royal Mail Hotel (Yea) – approx. 21 km
- The Shamrock Hotel (Alexandra) – approx. 26 km
- Places to Eat:
- A full range of cafes and eateries in Yea – approx. 21 km
- Supermarkets and bakeries in Alexandra – approx. 26 km
- Local Attractions:
- Goulburn River High Country Rail Trail (Molesworth access) – approx. 11 km
- Yea Wetlands Discovery Centre – approx. 21 km
- Lake Eildon National Park – approx. 32 km
- Cathedral Range State Park – approx. 42 km
- Nearest Caravan Parks:
- Molesworth Recreation Reserve & Caravan Park – approx. 11 km
- Yea Riverside Caravan Park – approx. 21 km
- Next Free Camps:
- Petroffs Camping Ground – approx. 1 km
- Acheron River Camping Area – approx. 32 km
- Nearest Dump Points:
- Yea Showgrounds Public Dump Point – approx. 21 km
- Alexandra Showgrounds Public Dump Point – approx. 26 km
- Nearest Petrol Station: Molesworth (limited hours) – approx. 11 km, Yea – approx. 21 km
- Drinking Water Resupply: Yea (public taps available in town) – approx. 21 km
- Public Toilets: Molesworth Recreation Reserve – approx. 11 km, or in Yea town centre – approx. 21 km
Seasonal Weather Forecast
- Summer (Dec-Feb): Days are warm to hot, with average temperatures from 15°C to 30°C. Ideal for swimming and water activities.
- Autumn (Mar-May): Mild, sunny days and cool nights, ranging from 8°C to 24°C. A perfect time for camping and fishing.
- Winter (Jun-Aug): Cold and often damp, with temperatures from 3°C to 14°C. Heavy frosts are common, and warm gear is essential.
- Spring (Sep-Nov): Cool to mild and can be unpredictable. Temperatures range from 7°C to 21°C. The landscape is green and vibrant.
