Smoko Campground: Free Riverside Camping on the Great Alpine Road

Nestled in the picturesque Ovens Valley right alongside the Great Alpine Road, Smoko Campground is a highly sought-after free camping destination that offers the perfect blend of convenience and natural beauty. This spacious, grassy reserve is shaded by mature deciduous trees that provide a stunning display of colour in autumn, making it one of the most scenic spots in the region. Its prime location between the charming towns of Bright and Harrietville makes it an ideal base for exploring the Victorian High Country, from the ski slopes of Mount Hotham to the endless hiking and cycling trails that crisscross the alpine landscape. The campground is situated on the banks of the Ovens River, providing excellent opportunities for fishing, kayaking, and swimming in the clear, cool mountain water.

Smoko Campground is a large, open area that can accommodate a range of camping setups, from tents and swags to large caravans and motorhomes. The facilities are basic, featuring non-flush toilets and several wood fire pits, catering to self-sufficient campers who enjoy a traditional bush camping experience. As a state forest campground, it is proudly pet-friendly, allowing you to bring your furry companions along to enjoy the High Country air. While there are no rubbish bins or potable water taps, the close proximity to Harrietville and Bright means supplies are never far away. The ground is generally flat and well-grassed, though it’s wise to be mindful of lower-lying areas after heavy rain. Due to its popularity and easy 2WD access, it can get busy during peak holiday periods and long weekends, so arriving early is recommended to secure a prime riverside spot. For travellers seeking an accessible, beautiful, and free base to explore the alps, Smoko Campground is an unbeatable choice.

Campground Information

• Name: Smoko Campground
• Address: Great Alpine Road, Smoko, VIC 3741, Australia
• GPS Coordinates: -36.82696991767281, 147.07660633421966
• Website: Managed by Forest Fire Management Victoria (no dedicated site).

Features & Facilities

• Location: Directly on the Great Alpine Road, alongside the Ovens River.
• Site Suitable For: Tents, camper trailers, caravans, and big rigs.
• Road Access: Sealed road (Great Alpine Road). Easy 2WD access.
• Site Surface: Grass and dirt.
• Camping Permitted: Yes, free camping.
• Maximum Overnight Stays: Standard state forest limits apply (typically up to 28 days).
• Facilities: Non-flush toilets, fire pits.
• Potable Water: No. You must bring all your own water.
• Mobile Phone Coverage: Good coverage for Telstra; may be limited for other carriers.
• Onsite Public Toilets: Yes, non-flush toilets are available.
• Rubbish Bins: No. Carry-in, carry-out policy applies.
• Open Fires: Permitted in designated fire pits, subject to local fire restrictions and Total Fire Ban days.
• Generator Use: Permitted, with consideration for other campers.
• Number of Sites Available: Numerous unmarked, dispersed sites.
• Essentials to Bring: Drinking water, firewood, food, and rubbish bags.
• Pet Friendly: Yes, pets are permitted on a leash.
• Fishing: Excellent opportunities for trout fishing in the Ovens River.
• Short Walks: Informal tracks along the river. The Murray to Mountains Rail Trail is also nearby.

Local Amenities & Attractions

• Local Pubs:
  • The Harrietville Hotel – approx. 12 km
  • Bright Brewery – approx. 15 km
  • Alpine Hotel Bright – approx. 15 km
• Places to Eat:
  • Multiple cafes, bakeries, and restaurants in Harrietville – approx. 12 km
  • Wide range of dining options in Bright – approx. 15 km
• Local Attractions:
  • Mount Hotham Alpine Resort – approx. 45 km
  • Town of Bright – approx. 15 km
  • Murray to Mountains Rail Trail
  • Mount Buffalo National Park

Nearby Parks & Services

• Nearest Caravan Parks:
  • Harrietville Caravan Park – approx. 12 km
  • BIG4 Bright Holiday Park – approx. 15 km
  • NRMA Bright Holiday Park – approx. 15 km
• Nearest Alternate Free Camps:
  • Free camping areas along the Buckland Valley Road
  • Camping areas along the Crooked River (4WD access)
• Nearest Dump Points:
  • Bright Public Dump Point – approx. 15 km
  • Myrtleford Public Dump Point – approx. 45 km
• Nearest Petrol Station: Bright – approx. 15 km.
• Nearest Drinking Water Resupply: Bright or Harrietville.
• Nearest Public Toilets: Available onsite. Also in Bright and Harrietville.

Seasonal Weather Forecast

• Summer (Dec-Feb): Warm days and cool nights, perfect for river activities. Average maximums are around 28°C.
• Autumn (Mar-May): Mild days and crisp nights, famous for stunning autumn foliage. Average maximums range from 15°C to 24°C.
• Winter (Jun-Aug): Cold days and very cold nights, with frost and occasional snow at higher elevations. Average maximums are around 12°C.
• Spring (Sep-Nov): Cool to mild days with beautiful spring blossoms. Average maximums range from 16°C to 22°C.