Bobuck Ridge Camping Ground – Free 4WD Bush Camping Big River VIC

Escape to the rugged tranquillity of the Big River State Forest at Bobuck Ridge Camping Ground, a free bush camp perfect for self-sufficient 4WD enthusiasts. Located near Eildon, Victoria, this remote site offers a genuine “back to basics” experience, far from the hustle of paid caravan parks. Nestled amongst the tall trees, Bobuck Ridge is a small, secluded area with only a handful of sites, making it a peaceful retreat for those looking to unwind. Its position in the Central Highlands makes it a popular base for fishing in the Big River and exploring the extensive network of 4WD tracks that crisscross the region.

Access is a key factor for this campground. Situated off the main Big River Road, the track into Bobuck Ridge is unsealed and best suited for high-clearance 4WD vehicles. After rain, the tracks can become challenging, and 4WD is essential. The campground itself is suitable for tents and off-road 4WD camper trailers, but not for 2WD vehicles or large caravans. This is a pet-friendly location, so your dog is welcome to join the adventure, provided it is kept on a leash and under control.

This is a true bush camp with minimal facilities. While there are basic non-flush toilets, campers must be fully self-contained. You must bring your own drinking water, firewood (collecting wood from the state forest is not permitted), and a portable toilet is recommended in case the onsite facilities are not serviceable. Open fires are permitted in the designated fire pits, but campers must adhere to all seasonal fire restrictions and Total Fire Ban days. As a “leave no trace” site, you must take all your rubbish with you. With very limited to non-existent mobile phone reception, Bobuck Ridge is the perfect place to disconnect and enjoy the natural surroundings.

Bobuck Ridge Camping Ground – VIC Map

Campground Details

Name: Bobuck Ridge Camping Ground (also known as Bobuck Ridge Camping Area)
Address: Access via Big River Rd, Big River, Eildon VIC 3713
GPS Coordinates: -37.5122, 146.03768

Site Features

• Location: Big River State Forest, Victoria. Accessed via Big River Road.
• Site Suitable For: Tents, off-road 4WD camper trailers.
• Road Access: 4WD required, especially during and after wet weather. Unsealed forest tracks.
• Site Surface: Dirt and natural grass.
• Camping Permitted: Yes, free bush camping.
• Picnic Tables: No.
• Potable Water: No. You must bring all your own drinking water.
• Mobile Phone Coverage: Very limited to non-existent.
• TV Reception: No.
• Onsite Public Toilets: Yes, basic non-flush (pit) toilets. (It is recommended to bring a portable toilet as a backup).
• Rubbish Bins: No. This is a “leave no trace” site. You must take all rubbish with you.
• Open Fires: Permitted, subject to seasonal fire restrictions and Total Fire Bans. Bring your own firewood.
• Generator Use: Not specified. Be considerate of other campers in this small area.
• Number of Sites Available: Small, intimate campground with approximately 4 unmarked sites.
• Essentials to Bring: Drinking water, firewood, rubbish bags, recovery gear (for 4WD), shovel, portable toilet, food, and all other camping supplies.
• Pet Friendly: Yes, pets are permitted but must be kept on a leash and under control at all times.
• Fishing: Yes, popular for fishing in the nearby Big River.
• Short Walks: Yes, informal tracks exploring the Big River State Forest.

Local Amenities

Note: This is a remote campground. The nearest town with comprehensive services is Eildon (approx. 25-30 km away).

• Local Pubs:
  • Eildon Hotel (approx. 25-30 km in Eildon)
  • Snobs Creek Bar & Bistro (approx. 25-30 km in Eildon)
  • Rubicon Hotel (approx. 35-40 km in Thornton)
• Places to Eat:
  • Eildon Bakery Cafe (approx. 25-30 km in Eildon)
  • Cafe 501 (approx. 25-30 km in Eildon)
  • El Lago (approx. 25-30 km in Eildon)
• Local Attractions:
  • Big River State Forest (surrounding area)
  • Lake Eildon (approx. 25-30 km)
  • Eildon Pondage (approx. 25-30 km)
  • Snobs Creek Falls (approx. 30-35 km)
• Nearest Caravan Parks:
  • BIG4 Breeze Holiday Parks – Eildon (approx. 25-30 km in Eildon)
  • Eildon Pondage Holiday Park (approx. 25-30 km in Eildon)
• Next Free Camps:
  • Gang Gang Gully Camping Area (nearby in Big River State Forest)
  • Specimen Creek Camping Area (nearby in Big River State Forest)
  • 25 Mile Creek Camping Area (nearby in Big River State Forest)
  • Delatite Arm Reserve (approx. 50-60 km near Lake Eildon)
• Nearest Dump Points (Sullage):
  • Bluegums Riverside Holiday Park (approx. 20-25 km near Eildon)
  • Marysville Public Dump Point (approx. 40-45 km in Marysville)
• Nearest Petrol Station:
  • Simpsons Fuel Eildon (approx. 25-30 km in Eildon)
• Drinking Water Resupply:
  • Eildon (town centre, check for public taps – approx. 25-30 km)
• Nearest Public Toilets (off-site):
  • Eildon (town centre – approx. 25-30 km)

Seasonal Weather Forecast

This area is in the Central Highlands and experiences a climate that can change rapidly.

• Summer (Dec – Feb): Days are typically warm to hot, with average maximums around 27-28°C. Evenings are pleasantly cool.
• Autumn (Mar – May): Days become mild and crisp, with cool nights. The forest colours are a highlight.
• Winter (Jun – Aug): Winters are cold. Average daytime maximums are around 11-12°C, and overnight minimums often drop to 2-3°C or lower. Frosts are common. Be prepared for cold, damp conditions.
• Spring (Sep – Nov): Weather is variable, warming up but with potential for cold snaps and rain.

Note: Always check the weather forecast before heading out. Access roads can be significantly affected by heavy rain or snow (in winter).