Good Hope Flat Campground: Free Riverside Camping in the Historic Howqua Hills

Venture into the heart of Victoria’s legendary High Country and discover Good Hope Flat, a serene and historic free campground nestled on the banks of the iconic Howqua River. As part of the Howqua Hills Historic Area, this beautiful reserve offers a genuine escape into nature, steeped in the rich history of the gold rush era and the legendary cattlemen immortalised in Banjo Paterson’s poem, “The Man from Snowy River”. The campground itself is a spacious, grassy flat surrounded by towering gum trees, providing a peaceful and shady haven for campers. Its tranquil atmosphere and stunning riverside setting make it an ideal destination for families, anglers, hikers, and anyone looking to unwind in a classic Australian bush environment.

Good Hope Flat is one of several fantastic free camping areas along the Howqua River, offering a more secluded feel than the larger Sheepyard Flat nearby. It’s perfectly suited for self-sufficient campers, with basic but essential facilities including a non-flush toilet and several established fire pits for a cosy campfire. The crystal-clear Howqua River is the main attraction, perfect for a refreshing swim on a warm day, a spot of trout fishing, or simply relaxing by the water’s edge. Being a historic area, it is pet-friendly, so dogs are welcome to join the adventure. The access road is unsealed but generally suitable for 2WD vehicles in dry conditions, making it accessible for tents, camper trailers, and smaller caravans. Campers need to come fully prepared with their own drinking water and must take all rubbish with them to preserve the pristine environment. With its blend of natural beauty, rich history, and peaceful solitude, Good Hope Flat is a true gem for those seeking an authentic High Country camping experience.

Campground Information

• Name: Good Hope Flat Camping Area
• Address: Howqua Track, Howqua Hills, VIC 3723, Australia
• GPS Coordinates: -36.93345448286829, 146.9260483216107
• Website: Managed by Parks Victoria. See the Howqua Hills Historic Area page for park information and alerts.

Features & Facilities

• Location: Riverside setting in the Howqua Hills Historic Area.
• Site Suitable For: Tents, camper trailers, and small to medium caravans.
• Road Access: Unsealed road, generally 2WD accessible in dry weather.
• Site Surface: Grass and dirt.
• Camping Permitted: Yes, free camping.
• Maximum Overnight Stays: Standard park limits apply.
• Facilities: Non-flush toilet, fire pits.
• Potable Water: No. Bring your own or treat river water.
• Mobile Phone Coverage: None.
• Onsite Public Toilets: Yes, a non-flush toilet is available.
• Rubbish Bins: No. Carry-in, carry-out policy applies.
• Open Fires: Permitted in designated fire pits, subject to local fire restrictions.
• 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: Yes, trout fishing in the Howqua River.
• Short Walks: Howqua Hills Historic Walk, informal tracks along the river.

Local Amenities & Attractions

• Local Pubs:
  • Kevington Hotel – approx. 20 km
  • Jamieson Hotel – approx. 30 km
  • Mansfield Hotel – approx. 35 km
• Places to Eat:
  • Jamieson Brewery and Grill – approx. 30 km
  • Wide range of cafes and restaurants in Mansfield – approx. 35 km
• Local Attractions:
  • Fry’s Hut Historic Site
  • Sheepyard Flat
  • Howqua Hills Historic Walk
  • Victorian High Country 4WD tracks

Nearby Parks & Services

• Nearest Caravan Parks:
  • Jamieson Caravan Park – approx. 30 km
  • Mansfield Holiday Park – approx. 35 km
  • High Country Holiday Park (Mansfield) – approx. 35 km
• Nearest Alternate Free Camps:
  • Sheepyard Flat
  • Pickerings Flat
  • Davons Flat
• Nearest Dump Points:
  • Mansfield Public Dump Point – approx. 35 km
  • Alexandra Public Dump Point – approx. 70 km
• Nearest Petrol Station: Jamieson (limited hours) or Mansfield for more options.
• Nearest Drinking Water Resupply: Mansfield or Jamieson.
• Nearest Public Toilets: Available onsite. Also at Sheepyard Flat.

Seasonal Weather Forecast

• Summer (Dec-Feb): Warm days perfect for river activities, with cool nights. Average maximums are around 27°C.
• Autumn (Mar-May): Mild days and crisp nights with stunning autumn colours. Average maximums range from 15°C to 24°C.
• Winter (Jun-Aug): Cold days and very cold nights, with frequent frosts. Higher tracks may see snow. Average maximums are around 12°C.
• Spring (Sep-Nov): Cool to mild days as the country greens up. Average maximums range from 16°C to 22°C.